Government investment in the arts, such as music and theatre, is a waste of money. Governments must invest this money in public services instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

At present, most

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government

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governments

spend some part of their budget on not only public services, but

also

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the arts,

such

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as, music and theatre. In my opinion,

although

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a proportion of

government

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spending should be channeled towards

this

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sector,

however

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, most should be spent on public services. It is very important that the governments spend a significant amount of its budget on public services because these are our hospitals, roads, schools and so on and they determine the quality of life we live. Take

for example

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, the United Kingdom, the

government

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has recently reduced public spending on health and education, which has resulted in an increased hospital

treatments

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treatment

waiting lists and fewer teachers, both of which will have

further

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adverse effects on education standards and health.

This

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demonstrates the importance of ensuring that a large proportion of

government

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money is spent on public services as it is the only way to maintain the welfare of the populace.

However

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,

this

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does not mean that the arts should be completely neglected for these reasons.

Firstly

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, it is difficult for many arts institutions

to generate

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generate

income

witout

in absence of

without

the help of the

government

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as a lot of people are not prepared to pay high entrance fees for places

such

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as art galleries or theatres, so without some help from the

government

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,

such

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places may have to shut down.

Secondly

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, the arts have an important impact on our quality of life, with many people deriving great pleasure in going to see music and theatre performances.

Lastly

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, the performing and literary arts

such

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as dance and books help keep our culture, heritage and history alive for the future generations. In conclusion,

although

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the majority of

government

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spending should be directed towards public services,

however

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, spending some money on the arts is

also

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essential and should continue because it is not a waste of money. A balance is required to ensure that public services are maintained while the arts remain available to all.