Tonge outraged at grant cut for Orange Tree

12.00.00am GMT Mon 3rd Feb 2003

Richmond Park MP Dr Jenny Tonge has reacted with outrage to the news that the Labour-controlled Association of London Government Grants Committee is proposing to cut its grant to Richmond's Orange Tree Theatre.

The MP said: "I was absolutely horrified to hear of this proposed cut in grant. The Orange Tree is the jewel in Richmond's cultural crown."

"All the wonderful work the Orange Tree does in educational outreach will be threatened if this cut is carried out.

I am urging Cllr Pat Parsons, and her fellow Conservatives on the ALG Grants Committee, to vote to continue paying the grant."