Devolved governments in Scotland and Wales have both pledged to preserve culture and heritage after announcing budget details for 2011-12.

In Scotland, the agency established to promote art and culture - Creative Scotland - is to have its core funding maintained. Historic Scotland has been asked to increase income at its sites while identifying seven per cent resource savings.

Meanwhile, the Scottish Government has confirmed that tourism budgets have also been reduced, with further staff reductions and increased efficiencies to be sought.

In Wales, the Welsh Assembly Government aims to support to each of its cultural bodies, although the heritage portfolio will face a 3.15 per cent budget cut over the next three years.

The Assembly Government also confirmed that it views tourism as a 'key priority' - worth around £4bn to the economy each year - and will continue to help grow the sector.

Despite reduced funding, National Museums Wales has said that it will continue with its free admission policy, while Sport Wales has pledged to pursue the delivery of the national sport and physical activity agenda.