Falling Behind the Times?

Last Wednesday’s plenary session included the debate on the Review of the Arts Council of Wales. Despite its tumultuous political birth, the final review, led by Professor Elan Closs Stephens, represented a careful balance of artistic freedom, the democratic role of government (both local and national), and a refreshing provision of stability and innovation. All political parties would have been wise to have endorsed this welcome and thorough review - the Conservative group supported every one of its recommendations.

From a report on their party website, it seemed clear that Plaid agreed. There, in bold green writing, was their declaration of support for the important arm’s length principle recommended in the final report: “Plaid welcomes recommendation to keep arts free of political interference.” (Nov 29th)

You’ll then understand why it came as such a great surprise that Plaid Cymru not only abstained on all bar one motion of the debate last Wednesday, but that they also refused to put down any amendments in support of the review.

Clearly, keeping their website up to date is far more important to them than keeping up to date in Plenary. We can only hope they sort out this minor problem before it comes to the critical Assembly Budget vote this Wednesday…