Despite growing pressure from green protestors the Tate and three other London art institutions have renewed their sponsorship deal with oil providers, BP.

The Tate as well as the British Museum, National Portrait Gallery and the Royal Opera House have all renewed the companies £10million deal despite the fact they were presented with a petition signed by thousands who disagreed with the controversial company (who last year admitted responsibility for an oil spil in America) being involved with British arts.

With BP being the Tate’s longest standing sponsor it must have been a difficult decision considering that the money allows them, and the other galleries, to bring some of the worlds best art to the masses however the decision is bound to upset all of those who have tirelessly protested at each of the institutions over the years.

Speaking about their choice culture minister, Ed Vaizey said, ‘BP’s renewed commitment to four of Britain’s great cultural institutions is extremely welcome. This is a significant investment, with £10m going directly towards staging world class exhibitions and performances. For more than 20 years, BP has led the way in business support for the arts and I am delighted that this will continue over the next five years.’