News

Bakewell condemns library closures 'catastrophe'

12.02.13 | Bookseller staff

Broadcaster Joan Bakewell has described library closures in areas including Liverpool and Newcastle as a "cultural catastrophe" and called on culture secretary Maria Miller to prevent them.

In an ITV Tyne Tees report, Baroness Bakewell commented: "Given the disproportionately heavy cuts to local authority funding in the north of England, when will the secretary of state use her considerable reserve powers to stop this cultural catastrophe?"

Conservative peer Lord Gardiner, also interviewed by the TV station, said he took the points "very seriously indeed" and said that local authorities had a legal duty to provide a "comprehensive and efficient library service".

Comments: Scroll down for the latest comments and to have your say

By posting on this website you agree to the Bookseller comments policy. Comments go direct to live please be relevant, brief and definitely not abusive. Report any "unsuitable comments by clicking the links"

Sort: Oldest first | Newest first | Readers' most recommended

By AlBarz

When David Cameron took office he pledged to reduced the north/south divide. This scandal is yet another betrayal of that stated intent. However, this time it is an undermining of the literary foundation of England. Carnegie must be pirouetting in his grave.

Tue, 12/02/2013 - 13:12
By AlBarz

When David Cameron took office he pledged to reduced the north/south divide. This scandal is yet another betrayal of that stated intent. However, this time it is an undermining of the literary foundation of England. Carnegie must be pirouetting in his grave.

Tue, 12/02/2013 - 13:12

Latest Jobs

Key Account Executive – ELT
Key Account Executive – ELT –...
£Very Competitive + Bonus + Benefits
German Territory Manager - Life Sciences
Territory Manager, Germany –...
£Competitive Salary + Strong Bonus + Benefits
Bookkeeper – Literary Agency – Publishing
This is a brand new position to join...
Excellent salary package and career opportunities
 

TheBookseller