Written question asked by James Purnell (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 December 2004. It was answered by Baroness Morris of Yardley (Labour) on Monday, 6 December 2004 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will make a statement on the progress made by Creative Partnerships towards the Government's plans to offer a universal cultural entitlement to all children and young people. - Inc figures.

Answer: James Purnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if she will make a statement on the progress made by Creative Partnerships towards the Government's plans to offer a universal cultural entitlement to all children and young people. [199733] Estelle Morris: The aim of Creative Partnerships is to give children and young people, particularly those living in disadvantaged areas, access to rich and diverse cultural experiences through working directly with artists and other creative professionals. 25 Creative Partnerships have been established so far, with a further 11 due to begin in September 2005. By this time coverage will have extended to 65 local education authority areas. Creative Partnerships is already having a significant impact. By November 2004, there had been over 217,000 attendances by young people at more than 2,500 projects, and the programme had also provided over 141,000 hours of professional development to teachers and creative professionals.

Secondary information