“Whether or not it has been the golden age our erstwhile leader claims, it is indisputable that New Labour has increased arts funding and does deserve to take some credit for the results this period of comparative stability has achieved. Once again our world-class arts organisations are producing internationally acclaimed work. The National Theatre and our regional theatres are flourishing. Orchestras are reporting record attendances and our film industry is a good deal healthier than it was when John Major said hello to the removal men.”