FUTURE OF THE WELSH NATIONAL OPERA COMPANY

That this House is appalled by the decision of the Arts Council of Great Britain not to include the Welsh National Opera Company amongst those benefitting from its ú6 million enhancement fund; notes that the Welsh National Opera, which undertakes two thirds of its performances in England, was depending on ú0.5 million from this fund to secure its future, which is now in jeopardy; commends the Welsh National Opera for the high standard of its performances and its recent successful international tours which have brought credit to Wales and to the United Kingdom; and calls on the Arts Council of Great Britain to reconsider their decision urgently.