Sir John Cass Faculty of Art, Architecture and Design

Debate between Baroness Evans of Bowes Park and Earl of Glasgow

Thursday 3rd December 2015 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

As I have said in answer to a couple of questions, I am afraid that I cannot comment on this particular case. It is a matter for the university. But I am very happy to talk about the fact that the Government provide around £60 million of funding for specialist art and music colleges, which do this country proud.

[The Earl of Glasgow (LD)]

My Lords, the Sir John Cass faculty is one of the most successful and highly regarded educational institutions in London, maybe even in Britain. Part of its success has always been attributed to its location in the East End close to the City, where it has thrived for more than 250 years. It seems that it is now likely to be forcibly moved out to Holloway, due mostly to London Metropolitan University’s financial difficulties. Surely this is the sort of situation in which the Government should step in and help.

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

I know that noble Lords around this House value university autonomy. As I have said, this is a matter for the university, not for the Government.