Class Inequality in the Arts

Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay Excerpts

Thursday 5th March 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

We are aware of the basic income scheme for artists in Ireland. We are not considering a basic income scheme for artists at this time. However, we believe that British creators are second to none and we are committed to giving them security and a regulatory and fiscal environment where creativity can flourish. This is exemplified by our recent Employment Rights Act, our commitment to appoint a freelance champion and our 5% uplift to national portfolio organisations, as well as our commitment to addressing some of the unfair practices in the grass-roots music industry, such as pay-to-play.

[Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)]

My Lords, in January, Exeter Cathedral School announced it would be closing its doors at the end of this academic year, after eight and a half centuries of training talented singers from all backgrounds who provide solace and tranquillity to those who need it. Parents and staff have said the Government’s imposition of VAT on their fees and scholarships was the “final nail in the coffin”. The headmaster of Wells Cathedral Choir School has similarly warned that, “VAT is of huge concern. Access to choristerships should be open to everyone. It is getting harder and harder to do that”. Will the Government think again, so that this important part of our living heritage can be open to everybody, not just those whose parents can afford it?

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

One of the issues with private schools is that, in principle, they have not been open to everyone. Ending the tax breaks on VAT and business rates for private schools was a tough but necessary decision that will secure additional funding to help deliver the commitments by this Government relating to education and young people. The schools that focus on the performing arts are in scope of the policy, in order to ensure fairness and consistency. However, we are pushing forward with making sure that there is better, revitalised arts education more generally, and that includes continuing some of the bursaries that are available to young people.