8. Will the Minister make a statement on promoting Welsh arts and culture abroad? OAQ(5)0093(EI)

Our culture sector has an important part to play in promoting Wales as an outward-facing nation that values cultural exchange. We will press for a cultural exemption clause to restrictions on freedom of movement, and for any loss in EU funds for culture to be replaced by UK national funds.

Thank you for that answer. Can I direct the Cabinet Secretary to the annual Lorient inter-Celtic festival, held each year in Brittany? It’s the biggest festival in France and the largest celebration of Celtic cultures in the world. The festival has invited Wales to be the honoured nation in 2018. Next year it’s to be Scotland. Can I ask what the Welsh Government is doing to support the year of Wales in Lorient?

I’m very pleased to be able to inform the Member that I am funding our activity at that festival. I am absolutely delighted that we’ve been chosen to be a key partner in 2018, the Year of the Sea, but also the year of friendship with our partners across Europe.