The government will review the business events sector after a Culture, Media and Sport (CMS) Select Committee inquiry into the events sector highlighted opportunities for growth, collaboration, and increased support.
The inquiry took place in Parliament on 9 December, chaired by Dame Caroline Dineage DBE MP, and included a cross-party group of influential MPs. Witnesses representing the sector included Rachel Parker, director at the Events Industry Alliance; Faye Dyer, chief executive at ACC Liverpool; and Robert Wright, founder and CEO of industry think tank The Business of Events.
Witnesses made the case for greater government support, emphasising the sector’s role in driving UK trade and investment, fostering relationship-building, encouraging innovation, and enhancing the country’s international reputation. They also highlighted challenges including global competition and the absence of a long-term roadmap for the sector.
Key recommendations presented to the committee included:
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Development of a Business Events 2030 Roadmap with strategic direction and government engagement
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Continued investment in VisitBritain’s Business Events Growth Programme and promotion of England via MeetEngland
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Creation of a cross-government working group linking DCMS, DBT, Health, Transport, DWP, Defence, and others
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Ministerial commitment to attend major trade shows and sector events
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Recognition of business events in the industrial strategy and international promotion
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Dedicated strategic channels for business events acknowledging their distinct ecosystem and funding models
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Cost competitiveness measures, including visa simplification and mutual recognition agreements
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Consistent measurement frameworks for cultural, sporting, and business events
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Export promotion of UK event delivery expertise and support for international bids
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Positioning business events as platforms for soft power, relationship-building, and thought leadership
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A government-led campaign to attract international business events to the UK
The committee will submit its recommendations in a dedicated Parliamentary Report, with the initial report expected in spring 2026.
