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UK Music Welcomes Commons Debate On The Music Industry’s “Immense” Contribution To The Economy

Posted by Andy Lenthall on


Deputy CEO Tom Kiehl has welcomed news that senior Labour MP Conor McGinn will lead a Commons debate on the “immense” contribution that the music industry makes to the economy.

The debate secured by Mr McGinn, the Secretary of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Music, will take place tomorrow, Tuesday January 21 in Westminster Hall at the House of Commons.

He will focus on the £5.2 billion annual contribution that the UK music industry makes to the economy and the social importance music can have on wellbeing and development.  

Mr Kiehl said:

"We are grateful to Conor McGinn for his fantastic support for the UK music industry and delighted he has secured this Parliamentary debate to highlight the immense contribution that the music industry makes to the UK economy and society.

"Coming so soon after the General Election, and in the run up to our expected departure from the EU at the end of the month, this debate presents MPs with a timely opportunity to talk about the huge benefits of music and how it is Britain's calling card across the world.

"It will also give MPs a crucial chance to raise issues where they believe the industry needs support from the Government to maintain growth in the sector to ensure our success in the decade ahead."

Mr McGinn said:

“Our vibrant and diverse music scene is one of the great British success stories.

The UK music industry contributed £5.2 billion to our economy in 2018 with £1.1 billion of that figure coming from the live music sector alone.

“The figures are hugely encouraging and show why Britain's music is the envy of the world.

“However, the music industry faces challenges which the Government must recognise. 

“Ministers must live up to their promise to cut the soaring business rates bills for small venues, and reverse the decline of music in education, so that all children, no matter their background, have access to music.”

DCMS Minister Nigel Adams will respond to the points raised in the debate by Mr McGinn and other MPs. 

The debate, entitled: ‘Contribution of music to the economy and society’, will now take place on Tuesday 21 January at 2.30pm-4.00pm.

Watch the debate live on Parliament TV here.


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