Free museum access is key to Britain’s cultural cache
A few weeks ago, the UK’s universal free entry to national museums came under pressure, as the National Gallery’s financial difficulties brought the prospect of charging visitors back into focus. Now it’s being reported that ministers are also considering charging international tourists to see permanent collections as part of new plans to raise arts funding.
This points to a grim realisation: that the government continues to underestimate museums’ wider value. They are powerful instruments of soft power – but only if they remain relevant.
Free exhibitions are critical in keeping the public engaged with museum culture. With funding shortfalls, it’s getting harder for museums to justify investment in new and innovative projects that are crucial for the success of the sector. Backtracking on free entry isn’t the answer.
Read the full article here.
