Concern about arts cuts

Press, 1 September 1982, Page 10

Concern about arts cuts

PA Wellington The Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council is deeply concerned about cuts relating to the teaching or practice of arts and crafts in schools. It had initiated wide-rang-ing research into the impact of education cuts on the arts and in communities, said the acting director of the Arts Council. Mr Jim Booth. These findings might form the basis of formal submissions to the Minister for the Arts. Mr Highet, he said. The council had written to the

Minister expressing concern about:— © The re-deployment of the drama and art education officers who have national responsibility for curriculum development. © The dropping of performers in the School scheme. © The dropping of composers in the school scheme. © Redeployment of arts and crafts and music advisory staff employed by education boards. © The reduction of in-ser-vice training 30 per cent.

@ The cuts in adult education. Mr Booth said that the council felt the cuts would have a serious effect on the arts. “But we are not prejudging. We have undertaken research at a deeper level." he said. The Arts Council has asked community arts councils to approach schools and research the effect of education cuts on their particular communities. It is also asking education boards, secondary school boards, and other education institutions for their views.