UK parliamentary report slams DCMS for 'hands-off' approach to national museums

A new report by the UK Public Accounts Committee (PAC) criticizes the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) for lacking strategic oversight of England's 15 national museums and galleries, leaving them vulnerable to cyber and physical security threats. The report, titled 'Financial Resilience of government-sponsored museums and galleries,' notes that in 2024–25, DCMS provided £484m grant-in-aid (46% of museums' total income) but failed to monitor spending effectively. Self-generated income reached £563m in 2024–25, a 53% real-terms increase since 2021–22, yet DCMS has not provided guidance on increasing such income. Trustee vacancies stand at 15% across all boards as of October 2025, with average appointment time at 219 days (target 90). The report also raises the possibility of charging international visitors, though no decisions have been made. Security concerns are highlighted, referencing the 2023 British Library cyber-attack and British Museum thefts. Conservative peer Neil Mendoza argues the report misunderstands the arm's-length relationship between government and arts institutions. A DCMS spokesperson stated they maintain close working relationships and will consider the recommendations. The report follows an earlier NAO warning that cost-containment measures have limits amid dwindling subsidies.