The Conservatives' laughable idea that they help the arts

On Sunday, the culture secretary, Jeremy Hunt, said at the Conservative party conference: "There was a time when the arts world and the Conservative Party didn't get on. But I believe this has changed." Oops: I don't think so, Jeremy. This government looks set to become the most unpopular among arts lovers in living memory if the rumoured cuts of anywhere between 25-40% go through. He's certainly off Sir Nicholas Serota's Christmas card list after the director of the Tate warned in yesterday's Guardian of a "blitzkrieg" on Britain's culture. Hunt's professions of commitment to the arts are looking increasingly comedic against this backdrop, as does his continued contention that the "front line" will be protected. As for the notion, adhered to by the Tories, that philanthropy is the cure, when I put this to Serota at Tate Britain yesterday he gave a little hop of derision and a mirthless laugh. Changing British attitudes to giving would take decades; the arts could be dealt a shattering blow over the next five years.