ACE’s ‘political statements’ warning to artists came after government talks

Exclusive: FOI request reveals Arts Council updated guidance after discussing Gaza conflict with DCMS

Arts Council England (ACE) issued a warning that “political statements” could break funding agreements after discussions with the government about artists speaking out over the Israel-Gaza war, newly released documents suggest.

A Freedom of Information request made by the actors’ union Equity has revealed that the conflict was discussed in a meeting between ACE and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in December.