Jack Gamble, director of Campaign for the Arts, said the charity was “pleased” that the announcement would go ahead next week. 

He said: “This is already an extremely uncertain and difficult time for cultural organisations – recovery from the pandemic’s impacts is far from assured, and the energy and cost-of-living crises mean it’s harder to pay bills and sell tickets. 

“The Arts Council’s investment will be crucial for many. It is a vital ingredient not just in many business plans, but in the success story of UK culture at home and abroad.”