Profile: New Culture Secretary
Posted on May 10, 2010
From the All About Audiences website:
The Arts Council England has issued a response to appointment of Jeremy Hunt, tory MP for South West Surrey, as new secretary of state for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport.
Alan Davey, chief executive, Arts Council England said: ‘I welcome the appointment of Jeremy Hunt MP as secretary of state for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport. In his role as shadow culture secretary he has been a knowledgeable and passionate advocate for the arts and a thoughtful supporter of the work of the Arts Council. I look forward to building on the positive working relationship we have enjoyed with him. Speaking up for the arts within government is a vital role and his commitment and enthusiasm make him a great man for the job.
‘Jeremy takes up the post at a time of achievement and challenge for the arts, as we work to cement artistic activity at the heart of national life and emphasise the role of cultural and creative life as a driver for economic recovery. It is also important that we showcase the best of our culture to the world during the Cultural Olympiad and that the arts seize this opportunity to enthuse and engage the nation.’
Hunt commented on his appointment: ‘I am very pleased to have been appointed as the new secretary of state for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport. It is a wonderful moment for me personally, having followed this portfolio for the last two and a half years.
‘Our sectors – particularly creative industries, culture and tourism – are vital elements in the UK’s economic recovery. The successful delivery of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London gives us a once-in-a-lifetime chance to showcase the country to the world in what will, quite literally, be the greatest show on Earth.
‘I know there is an incredible appetite for change across the country and I want the department to be at the forefront of making it happen.’
Born on 1 November 1966, Mr Hunt was educated at Charterhouse school, Godalming and Oxford University. He lives in Farnham and London with his wife.
To see the whole profile on the All About Audiences website – click here.
To visit the Arts Council England website – click here.