NMeM: London Presence update

[Michael Pritchard]

A Freedom of Information request to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport has confirmed that the National Media Museum still sees the Science Museum as the base for its London Presence. The DCMS also confirmed:

• That it had held no meetings the National Media Museum over its plans for a London Presence between 1 September 2009 and 3 June 2010
• The Project is expected to cost less than £5 million and therefore does not require any approval from the DCMS
• The NMSI, the NMeM's parent body, will have full responsibility for funding the Project.

The NMSI, in common with all national museums receiving direct grant-aid from DCMS, is expected to a reduction in its grant as the government starts to rein in public spending. The NMSI will make a decision regarding the Project in the context of a reduced grant and it is this that will ultimately determine whether the Project progresses or not.