UKEVENTS has welcomed Andy Burnham as the UK's new prime minister, saying it looks forward to working with the new government to strengthen the competitiveness of the UK events industry.
The industry body said Burnham's previous experience as culture secretary and as mayor of Greater Manchester gives him "a unique appreciation" of the contribution the events sector makes to the UK economy.
Burnham, who served as mayor of Greater Manchester for nine years before becoming prime minister, oversaw investment in transport, regional growth and major events during his time leading the city region. He is also a patron of the Institute of Event Management, a UKEVENTS partner.
Glenn Bowdin, chair of UKEVENTS, said: "On behalf of UKEVENTS and our partners across the UK events industry, I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Prime Minister Andy Burnham on his appointment.
"Andy Burnham has demonstrated throughout his career a strong understanding of the economic, social and cultural importance of bringing people together. From his time as Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport through to his leadership of Greater Manchester, he has consistently recognised the power of events, culture, tourism and place-making to drive investment, community engagement and economic growth."
Bowdin also welcomed the progress made by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport under minister Stephanie Peacock on developing a UK Major Events Strategy.
"The current team at DCMS, under Stephanie Peacock MP, have been making great progress in developing a Major Events Strategy and encouraging cross-government working, and we hope that momentum will now continue under the new administration," he said.
Looking ahead, Bowdin said UKEVENTS wants to work with the government on policies to support skills, attract international business events and strengthen the UK's position as a destination for meetings, conferences, exhibitions and major events.
"We particularly welcome his track record of championing cities and regions, improving connectivity and supporting growth through strategic investment. These are critical foundations for a thriving events ecosystem.
"UKEVENTS looks forward to working constructively with prime minister Burnham, his ministers and officials to develop policies that strengthen the competitiveness of the UK's events industry, support skills and talent development, enhance international business events activity, and maximise the contribution of events to economic growth and community prosperity across all parts of the United Kingdom."
