L

Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)

Speaking in the House of Lords on 5 March 2026

Debate

Class Inequality in the Arts

Contribution

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?

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