A top city councillor last night told opponents of Brighton and Hove's Capital of Culture campaign to "stop whinging".
There has been opposition to the bid by Brighton and Hove to become the European Capital of Culture in 2008.
But at a Brighton and Hove City Forum meeting, Councillor Ian Duncan said opponents were political protesters.
Coun Duncan - who is in charge of culture - said the cultural industries provided thousands of jobs in the city which should be encouraged.
He said the council had little money to spend on new enterprises and its main role was as an enabler.
Deputy council leader Jackie Lythell rebutted criticism of the Try it for the First Time scheme, part of the campaign.
She said: "It is opening people's eyes to new experiences and it is entirely paid for by sponsorship rather than the council."
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