Dowden tweets choirs in England can re-assemble on 19 July

For weeks, many choristers have complained about the apparent unfairness of re-opening pubs and football stadiums but not allowing more than six to sing inside and only gather outside in numbers up to 30.

The numerous previous changes of plan announced by Prime Minister Johnson had made left many choir organisers frustrated and out of pocket as restrictions were re-imposed after statements saying they’d be dropped at earlier dates. And the government’s refusal to underwrite music events scheduled after July 19 has resulted in the cancellation of festivals such as WOMAD at which international singing groups are often a feature.

But Dowden, who claims to be a great lover of English choral music, says choirs and choral festivals can now feel safe to go ahead after that date.

Oliver Dowden speaking about choral music on Twitter: ‘It’s a joy of mine, one of our great contributions to global culture’.