The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for events is set to focus on support for the sector during the Covid-19 outbreak and a plan for recovery in 2021.
Theresa Villiers, chair of the APPG for events, revealed the group's priorities in a New Year letter marking the revival of the APPG.
She said: "I am delighted to take on the role of chair for the APPG for events. It is so important to revive this group in order to act as a voice for the UK's world-leading £84 billion events sector.
"The events industry has been one of the most dynamic, creative and growing parts of the economy and directly employs over 750,000 people. It provides a wide range of skilled jobs and also plays a crucial role in securing inward investment and supporting UK exports, facilitating in excess of £165 billion in trade through business events."
Villiers highlighted three issues that she hopes the APPG will focus on:
- Support during the Covid outbreak and a plan for recovery and re-opening
- People and talent
- Events as an economic driver
She added: "With the events sector hit so hard by Covid, the APPG can play a key role over the coming months."
Michael Hirst, chair of the Events Industry Board, commented on the letter on Twitter, saying: "Definitely this agenda reflects the right priorities."
M&IT editor Paul Harvey is a journalist with more than 15 years of experience. He began his career in the local press, working for various titles across the north. Since joining M&IT in 2013, he has become a trusted and respected voice in the sector, championing event professionals and reporting on all aspects of the events industry for the brand.
