Hannah Jane Parkinson’s article (This philistine government is failing the arts, 26 November) on the significant boost to the arts by Jennie Lee brought back memories of the 70s, 80s and 90s when many local authorities, supported by the national and regional arts councils, placed the arts alongside other initiatives in recognition of their vital importance to the economy as well as to everyday life. As an arts officer for Newham, Havering, Milton Keynes and Derbyshire for over 30 years, I saw many people improve their lives through artistic experiences. There was an analysis at the turn of the century which showed that the arts industry provided the fifth-largest contribution to the economy.
Since those days, the philistinian Tories have cut the arts as a result of their inability to recognise its importance to both society and the economy, and the need to find another Jennie Lee – whom I met – becomes as crucial as replacing this sad excuse for a government with a more intelligent one.
Paul Barry
North Wingfield, Derbyshire
• With reference to the need for a culture secretary with knowledge of the arts and the guts to fight for them, it is worth remembering that not only did Jennie Lee ensure that the National Theatre and the Open University were established, but she saw the act through the House that set up the National Film School – now acknowledged as the best of its kind in the world.
She did so when she should have been campaigning in her constituency during a general election and subsequently lost her seat. Such was her overriding belief in her role rather than protecting her political career. We will not see her like again.
Roger Crittenden
Hughenden Valley, Buckinghamshire
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