Literary fiction under threat, ACE report concludes

Sarah Crown, director of literature of Arts Council England, told The Bookseller she believes literary fiction is "something that we need to defend".

"Research shows that reading literary fiction has neurological benefits, it transports you across the world and promotes your ability to empathise," she said. "Also considering our place on the international stage, it is so important. We are seen across the world as the home of great literature."

The solution does not just lie with one element of the industry but was a "collective responsibility", Crown said.