Written question asked by Michael John Foster (Labour) on Tuesday, 2 May 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 May 2006. It was answered by David Lammy (Labour) on Monday, 8 May 2006 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

The Public (West Bromwich)

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what steps the Arts Council are taking to ensure that the objectives of its charter are being met in discussions on the future of The Public's arts building in West Bromwich.

Answer: As a result of the administration process for The Public, Arts Council England has been working closely with the administrators to ensure the artistic vision continues and is realised.All the funders recognise and continue to support the central place of creative activity within this landmark building. The Arts Council is leading on evolving a new artistic model and programme for the dedicated arts spaces within the building. A number of the visitor attraction "exhibits" have been commissioned and it is expected these will be placed within the gallery as originally intended.

Secondary information