Arts and Cultural Sector: Employers’ National Insurance

Debate between Lord Grayling and Baroness Mackenzie of Sherwood

Thursday 15th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Mackenzie of Sherwood (Lab)]

As some noble Lords will know, I started my career in touring theatre and worked for many years at a theatre that received touring theatre, so I absolutely understand the issue and its seriousness. It is a subject of lobbying from the sector and of discussion with the Government, and I am unable to comment further on any issue that might or might not appear in the Budget.

[Lord Grayling (Con)]

My Lords, I declare an interest as a trustee of the National Portrait Gallery. The Minister will be well aware of the importance of philanthropic donations to major institutions. Will she then make representations to the Chancellor to stop government policies that end up with wealthy people who could otherwise support the arts choosing to leave the country?

[Baroness Mackenzie of Sherwood (Lab)]

I support and publicly pay tribute to all the philanthropists, both those in this country and those based internationally, who support our cultural institutions and arts. It is one of the most important areas of partnership for cultural institutions. A brilliant project that the government art collection announced is the ninth iteration of the Robson-Orr TenTen Awards—an impeccable partnership between philanthropists and the government art collection, co-created and co-inspired by both the philanthropists and the Government. I should pay tribute to the Conservative Government for introducing its ninth iteration, although we celebrate and applaud its achievements to date.