'London Bubble's funding decision - a setback but not the end' - Hughes

12.00.00am GMT Tue 5th Feb 2008

Simon Hughes, Liberal Democrat MP for Rotherhithe - where the London Bubble Theatre Company has its home - has reacted angrily to the decision by Arts Council England to end completely its funding to London Bubble from April 1st.

On hearing on 1st February of the decision of the Arts Council England to cut all funding to the London Bubble Theatre Company, Simon Hughes said:

''Like everyone, I have heard with anger and sadness that Arts Council England are not going to continue funding the London Bubble Theatre from April this year. In the letter announcing their decision, the Arts Council does however mention 'that a case for transitional funding could be made'.

''This is very disappointing and sad news, particularly given the widespread support for London Bubble from many children, young people and adults living locally, as well as councillors, London Assembly members, the Mayor of London and the MP.

''I really think we could not have done more to change their minds.

''I have offered to meet again with Sandy Craig, Chair of the London Bubble Trustees, both to discuss the matter of transitional funding and the immediate and longer term funding of the theatre.

''I sincerely hope a way will be found to ensure that this Bubble continues to be a part of this community and is not burst by this decision''.

ENDS

1. The London Bubble Theatre Company website can be found at http://www.londonbubble.org.uk/

2. For information about Simon Hughes' involvement in support of the London Bubble, please follow the link - http://www.simonhughes.org.uk/pages/londonbubble.html