Ed Vaizey, the minister with responsibility for Museums, gave a speech at the Museums Association conference yesterday. As ever with these things, he was supportive of Museums, but short on the likely impact of the coming spending review. Lots of interest in networking, innovative approaches, sharing expertise, partnerships. "More with Less"
He mentioned the abolition of the Museums, Libraries and Arts Council, mentioning the need to transfer some functions. He expressed an intention to see Renaissance continue, with a focus on a group of leading non-national museums providing leadership.
Some points on convergence in terms of digital and new media and the benefits that might arise, but also reference to the need to share expertise, collections and audiences. Clearly keen on seeing collections on show in unusual places, but did not go as far as Matthew Evans in suggesting pubs.
Strong emphasis on successful partnerships with national leads: BM, V&A and Tate mentioned in particular. Looking to philanthropy as a more prominent factor in the sector.
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