Does culture have pride of place?

AS Athena went to press, the Government announced a package of $1.5 billion capital spending ‘to restore national pride’.

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According to the press release, the intention is to invest this sum in cultural organisations over five years, ‘turning the corner on underfunding over the last decade’. The bold promise is ‘to save more than 1,000 cherished Arts venues, museums, libraries and heritage buildings across England from closure... fix urgent capital needs and open up access to culture for everyone, everywhere’. It goes on, ‘funding for our treasured cultural venues will ensure vital, affordable and welcoming spaces are available for communities to come together and celebrate what makes their local area special. The Culture Secretary is quoted as saying: ‘At a time when forces seek to divide us, arts, culture and heritage are what bind us together. Our local cultural institutions aren't just buildings—they're part of who we are... they help tell our national story, and provide unique opportunit