Thank you for contacting me about the Learned Societies.
I understand your concerns on this issue. Educational charities provide unrivalled access to historical artefacts and information, and I will do everything in my power to secure their future.
I am aware of recent reports surrounding the Learned Societies, specifically regarding the rising cost of rent. I do, however, want to stress that the Learned Societies currently pay around 30 per cent of market rent for their premises in Burlington House, and won’t start paying full market rent until 2085. This comes as a result of a lease agreement in 2005 between the then Government and the Learned Societies following an unsuccessful High Court challenge by the societies for ownership of the building.
While I understand this must be frustrating, I want to reassure you that the Government is currently looking for a solution that can deliver value for taxpayers and help the societies to remain at Burlington House.