Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment she has made of the potential benefits of the UK taking part in the European Year of Cultural Heritage proposed for 2018 by the European Commission for her Department's objectives set out in the Culture White Paper, published in March 2016 ; what assessment she has made of the implications of the outcome of the EU referendum on UK participation in that event; and if she will make a statement.

Our rich cultural heritage makes the UK a great place to live and attracts millions of visitors each year. In the White Paper we committed to ensuring we continue to celebrate our heritage and make sure we can pass on something even more inspirational to future generations.

Until exit negotiations are concluded, the UK remains a full member of the European Union and all the rights and obligations of EU membership remain in force. During this period, we will continue to participate in EU initiatives, and the European Year of Cultural Heritage is a potential opportunity to showcase UK heritage. We will continue to work with the heritage sector to determine the nature of our involvement.