"ANS have now engaged with all the political parties who have asked to meet us to hear our views on this issue and as a non political local arts council we thank them all for their interest and support: Tom Brake, MP (lib dem); parliamentary candidates Emily Brothers (labour) and Paul Scully (conservative)," said chair Samia Tossio.
"Recently we had an incredible opportunity to meet and discuss the issue with none other than Rt Hon Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, who was invited to Sutton by Paul Scully. Paul asked ANS to meet and we accepted this opportunity in good faith.
"I invited ANS Exec Gary Milsom and Rebecca Morland from Theatres Trust along to contribute to the informal discussion on the situation and our collective hopes for a positive outcome.
"I suggested Mr Javid is best placed to talk to Eric Pickles about the cuts imposed on councils nationally.
Naturally, Mr Javid's major concern, like everyone else's, was the tight timescale. I asked him what he felt that he could do as his role is primarily Strategy and Policy.
"Mr Javid said that responsibility for local issues rests with local councils however the DCMS can ensure that councils follow and comply with rules. His department can also provide arms length advice and support through bodies affiliated to them, like Theatres Trust and ACE. DCMS can share good practice and he feels, going forward, the key will be viability of the plans.
"We now have a positive connection with his department which is good and I hope to share a couple of photos of the moment as soon as we receive them."