From TIMOTHY ADES, translator and poet
As a translator-poet, I am shocked and distressed by the Arts Council's 100% cuts to some small presses in that field.
Poetry in translation is a vital element in our poetry, and our literature. The Arts Council seems completely unaware of it.
Abroad, there is now a truly vast market for books in English. Many foreign writers, if they are read at all in some parts of the world, will be read in English translation.
The "savings" to the taxpayer are trifling, and counter-productive.
Arc Publications is a key player, adventurous and successful, at the cutting edge in poetry translation. Salt and Enitharmon also contribute significantly.
I hope this trail of destruction will be reconsidered, and that in future this sector will have proper support.