After a weekslong campaign, artists in Britain welcomed the move, which will provide support to recipients like “local basement” music venues and museums.

By Alex Marshall

“Britain’s arts sector, largely shuttered since March because of the pandemic and warning of an imminent collapse, is being given a lifeline through what Prime Minister Boris Johnson described as a “world-leading” rescue package for cultural and heritage institutions.

The organizations will be handed 1.57 billion pounds, about $2 billion, the culture ministry said on Sunday evening.

… The money will go to a variety of recipients, including Britain’s “local basement” music venues and museums, he added, although he did not provide details. Museums in England were allowed to reopen on Saturday, but it is unclear when theaters and music venues will be permitted to.”

Includes information on funding announcements from:

• Germany: 1 billion euros (about $1.13 billion)

• France: €5 billion

• Netherlands: €600 million

Source: The New York Times