This morning I challenged the Government on the underfunding of arts and culture and the inequality between London and the regions, which is a concern I’ve been pressing since leading a debate on the issue in 2014.

I specifically raised the need for revenue funding; while there have been grants available for buildings, renovations and specific, there is a need for more money for running our arts and cultural facilities. I also highlighted the inequality in funding between London and other parts of the country, and asked the Minister to agree that the Arts Council rebalance resources towards the regions.

Frustratingly, her answer sidestepped both the need for extra revenue funding and the regional imbalance – instead citing a one-off funding initiative for repairs and maintenance, missing my point on the need for year-on-year revenue funding. I will follow up in seeking for her to meet with me and the Chief Executive of Museums Sheffield to discuss the issue.

You can watch the exchange here.