The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
V&A links will be ‘boon’ for UK economy, says Khan
POLITICS: London mayor claims culture is glue that binds country together
Close links between the V&A in Dundee and London will be a “boon” for the UK economy, Sadiq Khan has predicted.
The mayor of London said cultural attractions are a large part of the draw for tourists who visit Scotland and talked up the impact the museum will have on the city when it opens next year.
Tristram Hunt, the former Labour MP, has recently taken up post as the V&A’s director in London and it is understood he is keen to foster a positive relationship with Dundee.
Mr Khan said: “I’ve got a saying I use in London where I say that culture is in the DNA of our city. “It’s the glue that binds us together. “I think that applies across the country.
“Culture is so important — it enriches our lives, it gives young people confidence, it teaches people leadership skills. It is also a huge boon for our economy.
“Many people who visit Scotland come because of the culture.
“The V&A in Dundee, with its sister museum in South Kensington in London is really important to our reputation overseas.
“The V&A in London has a new director in Tristram Hunt and he’s a passionate believer in the power of culture to do good.
“This is an example of where our country punches well above our weight in relation to music, in relation to tech, in relation to theatre and museums and galleries as well.”
Mr Khan also praised the close links between Dundee and its surrounding area, including Perth where he was speaking at the Scottish Labour conference.
The Tay Cities Deal, which is bidding to secure millions of pounds worth of economic investment, involves Angus, Dundee, Perth and Kinross and Fife councils.
There has also been support from surrounding councils for Perth’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2021.
Labour’s most powerful elected politician said winning the coveted prize could have a transformative effect, but refused to back Perth against its rivals, instead wishing luck to each bid.