Leeds 2023 update
As you may have seen, there has been news about the future of the Leeds bid to become European Capital of Culture 2023.
The European Commission has told the Government that British cities’ applications should be discontinued because of the Brexit vote.
A spokesperson from the British Government's Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has said: “We disagree with the European Commission's stance and are deeply disappointed that it has waited until after UK cities have submitted their final bids before communicating this new position to us. The Prime Minister has been clear that while we are leaving the EU, we are not leaving Europe and this has been welcomed by EU leaders. We want to continue working with our friends in Europe to promote the long-term economic development of our continent, which may include participating in cultural programmes. We remain committed to working with the five UK cities that have submitted bids to help them realise their cultural ambitions and we are in urgent discussions with the Commission on the matter.”
Naturally, at the University, we’re very disappointed with this news, and will be working with the Leeds 2023 team to agree next steps.
You can read a statement on the Leeds 2023 website.
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