'The election results signify hope' - eventprofs react to Labour landslide
Eventprofs from across the industry share their thoughts on what the incoming Labour government could mean for the sector.
Robert Kenward, founder and Fitability® Recruiter at Your Search & Select
"The election results signify hope. Now recognised as a significant contributor to the GDP, the events industry can finally have a voice at the highest levels, acknowledged by those who appreciate, respect, and understand the creative sector and its people.
"I hope the new government takes us seriously and recognises us as a valuable asset. We bring people together and showcase the best of our country. I hope we will no longer be marginalised and can now move forward earnestly.
"I am hopeful that the new government can have a positive effect on the sector. A centre-left government is typically more open to ideas and creativity. Moreover, several key figures, such as Andy Burnham, Gary Neville, and Sacha Lord, have strong connections to the sector and understand the vital contributions of its people."
Robert Kenward
Robert Kenward
Simon Hambley
Simon Hambley
Simon Hambley, CEO, Strata
"From an event industry and national perspective, a change in government seems beneficial. The Conservatives have lost their way, moving too far to the right. This shift began with austerity measures long before Brexit, which severely impacted our industry. Their right-wing extremism should concern everyone.
"I’m hopeful that this new Labour government might rejuvenate the economy and potentially advocate for closer ties with Europe, benefiting the events industry. However, Labour’s economic track record is questionable, and they haven’t acknowledged Brexit’s failure. For our industry, Brexit has only added unnecessary complexity and costs.
"The options on the ballot paper were disheartening: 'perhaps capable,' 'proven ineffective,' and 'keep extremists out of power.' This election has presented the poorest choice of leadership I’ve witnessed in my voting lifetime."
David Tremmil, InLoco Events, beam board director and vice chair of UKEVENTS
"If this results creates stability in the economy then this is a positive for the events sector. At any time of political change there also tends to be a need for greater communications so we may see a short-term increase in corporate meetings as we adjust to new policies.
"The continued lack of recognition for our sector is, and will continue to be, an issue. I am hopeful that the new government will bring renewed optimism, awareness and a willingness to listen. This will then give us the opportunity to engage and have a meaning conversation about the value of our industry and the revenue it contributes to the UK economy and treasury.
"We now have a PM that has been voted in by the people rather than by their party members. This gives Keir Starmer a stronger mandate to lead which tends to have a positive impact on many sectors. And hopefully that will include our sector."
David Tremmil
David Tremmil
Janthea Brigden
Janthea Brigden
Janthea Brigden, CEO and director of childcare, Nipperbout
"I hope the new government recognises the events industry and simplifies the legislation surrounding childcare at events.
"Currently, the process is quite complex, leading many childcare providers to bypass it, resulting in a lack of accountability to regulatory bodies. This could mean their safeguarding policies are insufficient and their insurance compromised.
"Moreover, the venue has a duty of care to ask for proof that the onsite childcare is registered (or designated exempt by the regulatory body), in the same way they ask for PAT testing but most venues are unaware that childcare providers have this obligation."
Martin Fullard, director of The Business of Events and Davies Tanner
"The new Labour government presents a tremendous opportunity to leverage the benefits laid out in The Business of Events Policy Agenda. Our seven key initiatives, from updating SIC codes to enhancing visa schemes, can significantly boost the UK’s economy and, just as importantly, help the new government achieve its own policy objectives.
"Stability at ministerial level within the DCMS is crucial, and we hope the new administration will collaborate closely with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events to drive these policies initiatives forward.
"Proactive engagement with the events industry by the Government will be essential in unlocking its full potential and position the UK as a global leader in the business events industry."
Martin Fullard
Martin Fullard
David Watt
David Watt
David Watt, CEO of CI Group
"The industry should see this new government as an opportunity not a threat. We should look at the areas where it is going to invest and devest.
"I hope they are open to backing new ideas and education in the sector. For instance, as there are promises of significant investment in education, we should all be supporting The Power of Events campaign and directly contacting local colleges and universities, be pushing them for more higher education courses to encourage school leavers to train for careers in this great industry.
"We would also like to see easier controls and movement across the EU for goods and people, especially when both of these are in temporary transit. We’d also like improvement and guidance over overseas VAT. We need a better system where we could reverse charge rather than claim. Any reduction in red tape to ease business in Europe and further Internationally would be amazing."
Steve Jones, CEO of Wyboston Lakes Limited
"The arrival of a vast number of new MPs offers a major opportunity and need for the meetings and events industry to educate them about our industry and the challenges it is facing.
"There are challenges around high inflation and higher wage rates being expected by the tens of thousands of hard-working team members. It is also having to adapt to compressed working weeks, with demand for key dates is leaving unfilled space on other dates. Already struggling operators may choose to exit the sector, repurposing their facilities.
"While The Business of Events team are influencing the new government at the House of Commons and Whitehall, business travel agencies and venues should invite their MP, especially those who are new, in to meet them in the coming weeks and educate them on meetings and events as an industry so that they fully appreciate its scale, reach and significant contribution to both to the local and national economy."
Steve Jones
Steve Jones
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