This petition was submitted during the 2017-2019 parliament
Petition Increase local authorities funding to support museums and arts outside of London
Between 2007 to 2017, there has been a 13% cut in funding for museums in England, in the East Midlands and North East this rises to 24%.
More details
88% of museums that receive funding from central government are based in London. Thus, most museums outside the capital must be funded by local authorities.
Cuts to local council budgets mean these are 'easy targets' for budget cuts - budgets have fallen by 31% since 2010 (Museum Association, 2018) causing reduced opening hours, staff cuts and the selling of collections of 'national significance'.
This risks creating a cultural divide between the capital and the regions. This is damages tourism and deepens the educational divide - 'lower ability' Key Stage 3 students get a 71% boost in grade following a museum visit (University of Leicester, 2007).
This petition closed early because of a General Election Find out more on the Petitions Committee website