Oral Answers to Questions

David Amess Excerpts

Thursday 10th May 2018 Commons Chamber

[Michael Ellis]

I thank the hon. Gentleman and his group for the work that they have done on that report, and I am very happy to meet him at our earliest convenience.

[Sir David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

6. What assessment he has made of the contribution of the music industry to the UK.

[The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (Matt Hancock)]

We are the champions of British music. Music contributes a price tag of £4 billion to the economy, but it is not about the money. Britain’s music is our global calling card, so we will keep on supporting it, so that it is rocking all over the world.

[Sir David Amess]

UK music is the best in the world, except, seemingly, when it comes to the Eurovision song contest. I celebrate the fact that Southend-on-Sea has a wealth of musical talent. Will my right hon. Friend tell me what further assistance can be given to aspiring performers?

[Matt Hancock]

We have put a huge amount of effort, policy and enthusiasm behind Britain’s music industry, which is gangbuster at the moment. Protecting intellectual property and supporting music and education is a critical part of this. We obviously take inspiration from Southend’s famous sons, including Busted, but, unlike Busted, we are determined that it will not take until the year 3000 for us to get there.