Arts debate

Q: Why wasn't the arts debate an independent inquiry?

A: It was important that the arts debate research was led by the Arts Council so that we could ensure it asked the right questions and met the organisation’s needs. However, throughout the process we were committed to ensuring that the process was rigorous and transparent. We published the findings of the research and fed back the results to all who participated. We also appointed an independent advisory panel to oversee the research process and ensure that the methodology was sound and that our interpretation of the results was valid. Panel members included:

• Philip Cullum, Deputy Chief Executive, National Consumer Council
  
• Tony Hall, Chief Executive, The Royal Opera House
  
• Julia Hobsawm, Founder and Director, Editorial Intelligence
  
• Ian Kearns, Deputy Director, ippr
  
• Dame Suzi Leather, Chair, Charity Commission
  
• Masood Lone, Head of Equalities and Social Inclusion, London Borough of Camden