MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES IN WALSALL SOUTH

That this House recognises the extensive and vibrant collection of the New Art Gallery in Walsall as a vital cultural resource for the local community and for visitors from further afield; believes that museums and galleries are places where families can spend time together both enjoying and learning about the resources within, and participating in activities; is greatly concerned that as of 3 April 2011 the New Art Gallery in Walsall will be closed on Sundays, in addition to being closed on bank holidays and Mondays; notes that these are exactly the times when most people and families are able to engage in cultural activities; further believes that this signficantly reduces opportunities for people and families to visit the gallery; condemns the decision as not only anti-culture but anti-family; and calls on the Government and on Walsall MBC to take action to protect Walsall's cultural facilities and ensure that families are able to visit them at a suitable time.