Creative Industries: Creating Jobs and Productivity Growth

Lord Davies of Brixton Excerpts

Thursday 6th February 2025 Lords Chamber

[Lord Davies of Brixton (Lab)]

My Lords, this has been an inspiring debate, and we are all lucky to participate. I must, of course, pay tribute to our three excellent maiden speakers today: my noble friends Lord Brennan of Canton, Lady Griffin of Princethorpe and Lord Lemos. We must also thank my noble friend Lady Thornton for securing us this debate. As she explained, the Government have made it clear that the creative industries are a cornerstone of their mission to create jobs and boost productivity.

Our film and TV sector is not just a source of entertainment but a powerhouse of economic and cultural significance, yet it is important that we do not take it for granted. Its continued success requires our urgent attention. I draw the House’s attention to the remarks of my noble friend Lady Donaghy and the noble Viscount, Lord Colville of Culross, who emphasised the importance of the workforce and our need to support it in achieving its success.

I must therefore ask my noble friend the Minister to read a recent survey conducted by the organisation the Film and TV Charity entitled the Looking Glass Report 2024. I hope that she will commit to study the report and take action on the picture it reveals. It is an authoritative assessment of the mental health of behind-the-scenes workers in the industry, who provide the foundation of much of our creative industries’ success. Unfortunately, the survey paints a deeply concerning picture. The mental health of those working in our screen industries—television and film—is in crisis. The figures are stark: 64% of professionals have considered leaving the industry due to poor mental health, and an alarming 32% have already begun taking steps to exit the industry. Those are not just statistics; they sound a wake-up call that we must not ignore.

But amid these challenges there are signs of hope. Over the past five years, targeted interventions have started to shift working practices and culture in the right direction. Organisations such as the Film and TV Charity are leading the way, striving to create a healthier and more sustainable industry. Its work is invaluable, but it cannot be its fight alone. We must ask ourselves what more can be done. The Government have a responsibility to ensure that those who fuel one of our most vital sectors—as has been made so clear in this debate—are supported, protected and valued. This is not just about fairness or moral duty; it is about safeguarding the future of our creative industries. A thriving creative sector is built on the well-being of its people. If we fail them, we risk losing not just individuals but the very heart of our film and television industry. It is time for real meaningful action.