The Department for Culture Media and Sport has unveiled a cross governmental strategy for the UK events industry, which includes a series of initiatives to provide long-term value.
The strategy includes the creation of a Business Visits & Events Board, comprising industry repre-sentation with government departments and agencies, all under the auspices of the GREAT pro-gramme. The board will be tasked with identifying business opportunities and to win more events for Britain with additional resources.
In addition the strategy also includes sections on future governance, infrastructure and funding, vi-sas and the welcome from Britain to international visitors, marketing and strategic partnerships, and best practice.
“This is a solid blueprint for action whatever party is in power post the General Election in May,” said Michael Hirst, Chairman of the BVEP, which has been supporting the DCMS throughout this process. “What is essential is that the industry endorses the support that is now being expressed and works to ensure this momentum is maintained after the election.”
The strategy also includes a positive introduction from Sajid Javid, Secretary of State, which en-dorses the strength and quality of the UK events industry.
“It’s an amazing achievement for the events industry to be finally getting the attention it so richly deserves,” concluded Hirst. “We need to support the strategy, and see it through for the good of the industry.”