The proposed abolition of the Live Classical Music Subsidy is a source of grave concern to all those who are committed to the development and growth of classical music in the United Kingdom.

It is a well-established fact that classical music is unable to survive in the open market without subsidy, as is demonstrated by the support given to orchestras, opera companies and other classical music promoters throughout the country. The area of classical music publishing and composition is even more precarious with commercial pressures increasingly encouraging the neglect of contemporary music performance.

The Live Classical Music Subsidy has in the past provided the means to support classical composers by enhancing the fees from live performances, which form the basis of much of their income. The Performing Right Society's proposals will significantly reduce this income, and strike directly at its own members.

In making these proposals the PRS has made no consultation whatsoever of its members or of organisations involved in the promotion of classical music.

I would urge the Select Committee to review the PRS proposals.

May 1999