David Baird

Dear Richard & Judie-
well this is very shocking news and you must be feeling quite devastated by such arbitrary and unfounded decision making by the Arts Council of Wales- it seems to be not isolated to Wales unfortunately with companies such as London Bubble and The People Show being hit also the demise of The International Workshop Festival etc- venues and organisations through the South East of England where communities will suffer tremendously from the sudden withdrawal of some wonderfully artistic/community liberating undertakings...

But my shock at hearing of what's happened at CPR is immense given the foundation of the work, the global and inter-generational aspect of it, the significance of the archive and it's importance as resource, as an academic touchstone, a living archive and internationally vital resource linking communities worldwide ...I could go on- but it would seem that these decisions are utterly dastardly and without any sense or reason. It is a cull and I would defy the Arts Council in Wales to justify their decision, as whatever reason they would be likely to provide (other than they wanted the money for something else) would I am certain be challenge able in court under the DEFAMATION OF CHARACTER and LIBEL laws, AND IT WOULD BE CERTAINLY INTERESTING TO DEMAND (UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT) ALL INFORMATION REGARDING THE CPR AND THIS DECISION HELD BY THE ARTS COUNCIL OF WALES there are legal precedents for this - I am sure that the European Court once made aware of the international significance would also be intrigued

I shall lend my support to you in whatever ways I am able-
my own resources are, following the cuts and losses of companies that have hitherto provided a great deal of my livelihood, been stretched out of proportion having subsidised my own work in an Arts Council Free Zone for thirty plus years through the income from my writing, but perhaps there are other ways- fund raising through special events and performances etc that I can offer myself for...

Please don't hesitate to let me know what is required and please do not go down without a fight-

It would be too simple to call or suggest the Arts Council of Wales are charlatans and sycophants but the temptation to speak the truth often outweighs the desire to remain dignified as an arts practitioner!

fight the good fight
I and all those connected with me
support you wholly
best wishes

David Baird