NMDC RESPONSE TO REGIONAL TASK FORCE REPORT

From Charles Saumarez Smith, Chair NMDC Regional Affairs Committee

23 October 2001

“The National Museums Directors’ Conference (NMDC) welcomes this comprehensive case for substantial new government funding and political support for the regional museums which we believe is long overdue.

The proposed new framework of regional hubs requires further discussion and development but we welcome the principle. The national museums are keen to continue their partnerships with regional museums and agree with the report recommendation that this is an important element in the way forward.

The NMDC believes, however, that if there is to be any real change, the funding must be substantial to meet the serious deficiency in recent years. In addition, it is essential that these funds go directly and in their entirety to the museums.

Finally, NMDC is pleased the report recommends additional funding for national museums and galleries’ participation programmes with regional museums.”