I have written and spoken many times about High House Production Park, the Royal Opera House’s links with our borough and how the arts are important in changing people’s perceptions and aspirations.

So, I make no apology for doing so again – but I think you’ll find this one a little different.

Last week, we had the Government Chief Whip, Michael Gove, at High House. We’ve had the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, Ed Miliband, we’ve had innumerable ministers and shadow ministers visit – particularly over the last few months.

Admittedly, it’s partly because Thurrock is a very marginal seat and will play an important role in May’s general election, but equally they are all keen to be seen somewhere “arty” and every one of them appears to be genuinely impressed by what they see.

However, what does annoy me is that if there is one thing they all seem to agree on, irrespective of party, it is that government funding for the arts should be cut. While they want to be seen in places where the arts are valued, back in Westminster they appear to compete to cut arts funding.

Over the last five years we in Thurrock have shown the value of the arts. High House and the Royal Opera House have played a pivotal role in changing people’s views here.

Mr Gove was here to announce millions to help our Purfleet regeneration plans. They – including the television and film studios – wouldn’t exist without the Royal Opera House’s presence.

So, wielding the axe in the arts, while seemingly a “victimless cut”, is exactly the opposite. Here in Thurrock we’ve shown why maintaining the arts is so important. Perhaps Mr Cameron, Mr Miliband and the others should pay attention.

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