Oliver Dowden
Conservative - Hertsmere
7,992 (16.6%) majority - 2024 General ElectionFirst elected: 7th May 2015
2 APPG Officer Positions (as of 18 May 2026)
United Arab Emirates, Urinary Tract Infections2 APPG Memberships
Beer, Modern Conflict3 Former APPG Officer Positions
Cultural Heritage, Jews, London's Green BeltDivision Voting information
Debates during the 2024 Parliament
Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.
Sparring Partners
Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office
(12 debate interactions)
(8 debate interactions)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
(8 debate interactions)
Department Debates
(42 debate contributions)
(18 debate contributions)
(13 debate contributions)
(7 debate contributions)
Legislation Debates
(2,518 words contributed)
(1,808 words contributed)
(724 words contributed)
(290 words contributed)
Hertsmere Petitions
e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.
If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.
If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).
of 11,410 signatures (10.34%)
of 7,750 signatures (5.52%)
of 26,267 signatures (0.56%)
of 27,717 signatures (0.38%)
of 149,695 signatures (0.22%)
of 11,410 signatures (10.34%)
of 7,750 signatures (5.52%)
of 202,069 signatures (0.17%)
of 229,961 signatures (0.15%)
of 149,695 signatures (0.22%)
Latest EDMs signed by Oliver Dowden
Commons initiatives
These initiatives were driven by Oliver Dowden, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.
MPs who are act as Ministers or Shadow Ministers are generally restricted from performing Commons initiatives other than Urgent Questions.
Oliver Dowden has not been granted any Urgent Questions
Oliver Dowden has not been granted any Adjournment Debates
Oliver Dowden has not introduced any legislation before Parliament
Oliver Dowden has not co-sponsored any Bills in the current parliamentary sitting
Latest 50 Written Questions
(View all written questions)The information requested falls under the remit of the UK Statistics Authority.
A response to the Rt. Hon gentleman’s Parliamentary Question of 26th February is attached.
Minister of State (Education)
The information requested falls under the remit of the UK Statistics Authority.
A response to the Rt. Hon gentleman’s Parliamentary Question of 26th February is attached.
Minister of State (Education)
Local authorities and the police have powers to tackle anti-social behaviour caused by misuse of fireworks. New Respect Orders will empower police and local councils, via court mandates, to impose stringent behavioural restrictions on individuals who repeatedly engage in antisocial behaviour. I recently met with the Scottish Government and was interested to hear about the initiatives they are deploying to tackle anti-social use of fireworks. Engagement with devolved governments and local authorities are a key part of the evidence gathering process as we consider future decisions in relation to the regulation of fireworks.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)
There has been no assessment on the impact of the fireworks regulations 2004 on tackling purchase of fireworks for anti-social use.
I recognise that people hold a range of views on this issue. On 19th January, MPs debated two e-petitions relating to the sale and noise of fireworks respectively. As the Minister responsible, I will ensure that all evidence gathered, including views from the debate, and experiences shared by members of the public, are fully considered. I can assure you that public safety, the impact on people, animals and property, will remain central to this work.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)
The Department for Business and Trade does not hold this information. However, we are clear that disguised employment practices such as false self-employment are unacceptable. Employers should never seek to deny people their employment rights and avoid their own legal obligations by claiming someone is self-employed when in reality they are not.
The Government is committed to tackling false self-employment and HMRC will investigate evidence suggesting businesses have misclassified individuals for tax purposes. The Government has also set up a forum with the hair and beauty industry to support compliance in the sector.
This Government recognises the significant economic and social value of the hair and beauty industry.
That is why we have committed to reforming business rates from 2026-27 with a permanently lower multiplier for retail, leisure and hospitality properties, including hair and beauty salons.
The Government will also protect the smallest businesses by increasing the Employment Allowance to £10,500, meaning that 865,000 employers will pay no National Insurance contributions (NICs) at all and employers will be able to employ up to four full-time workers on the National Living Wage and pay no employer NICs.
We will also transform the existing Apprenticeship Levy into a more flexible Growth and Skills Levy to support business and boost opportunity.
We know this is a difficult time for businesses and workers alike, the Low Pay Commission are independent experts who conducts extensive consultation, analysis and evidence gathering when recommending the minimum wage rates.
We asked the LPC to make progress in extending the National Living Wage to more adults than ever before, by continuing to narrow the gap between the 18-20 rate and the NLW.
We do recognise that the 18-20 band are more vulnerable to unemployment, and therefore any impacts on employment - as well as incentives to remain in training or education - must be monitored carefully, as we proceed.
In the letter Drax was responding to questions posed by DESNZ regarding its sourcing of biomass from Canada. DESNZ subsequently consulted Canadian officials and forestry experts on the issues and developed enhanced sustainability criteria, audit and assurance requirements which have been implemented within the new Low-Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference with Drax.
Ofgem independently investigated Drax’s annual profiling submission for compliance period 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 which concluded Drax had misreported data. In response, Drax made a voluntary redress payment of £25m and Forvis Mazars has been appointed to independently audit Drax’s annual profiling data and reporting. This audit is currently ongoing.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
As part of its extensive investigation into Drax’s sustainability reporting, Ofgem considered a range of internal documents concerning the accuracy of public statements around the 2022 Panorama documentary. While the precise documents reviewed are a matter for Ofgem to address as the independent regulator, the government received its final report and is confident in its conclusions.
The new Low-Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference with Drax from 2027-31 includes strengthened audit powers for the Low-Carbon Contracts Company to ensure the accuracy of sustainability statements. Drax will be liable for significant penalties via loss of subsidy, and – ultimately – termination of the contract if significant breaches are identified.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
The Secretary of State has not asked the Permanent Secretary to reach conclusions on matters that are subject to Ofgem’s independent regulatory processes.
Ofgem has confirmed that whistleblower accounts formed part of its extensive 2023-4 investigation into Drax’s compliance with reporting requirements. Its investigation did not find any evidence that Drax had been issued with subsidies incorrectly. Shortcomings were identified in Drax’s data governance and controls related to annual profiling data which are not used for subsidy calculation under the Renewables Obligation. Drax has subsequently made a significant payment of £25m to the Voluntary Redress Fund and improved its policies and procedures around reporting data.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
The case for awarding the 2027-31 Low-Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference to Drax was based on short to medium-term security of supply needs as identified by the National Energy System operator (NESO). Longer-term system needs, and considerations around Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage, are considered as part of the government’s forward planning in delivering Carbon Budgets and clean power system requirements.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
Following its 2023-4 investigation into the company’s sustainability reporting, Ofgem required Drax to commission and fund a global supply chain audit. The progress of the audit – and any decision on whether to publish its findings - is a matter for Ofgem as the independent regulator. However, the first phase has been delivered and relevant information shared with DESNZ officials.
Any further findings will continue to inform Ofgem and the Low-Carbon Contracts Company’s approach to identifying supply chain-related risks and targeting audit activity, including in relation to the Low-Carbon Dispatchable CfD which operates from 2027.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
It has not proved possible to respond to the hon. Member in the time available before Prorogation.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
The Low Carbon Dispatchable CfD signed with Drax sets out consequences in the event Drax have misrepresented information provided to HMG used when agreeing the strike price. This includes the right to revise the strike price or terminate the agreement under certain circumstances.
Ofgem, the independent regulator, found no evidence that Drax had deliberately misled Government or the wider public regarding the adequacy of the company’s procedures for ensuring that biomass is sourced in a sustainable manner.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
Government has not had any such discussions with stakeholders.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
DESNZ has not seen and does not hold any such report relating to whistleblowers at Drax. As part of its 2023-4 investigation into Drax, Ofgem considered a broad range of documents and sources, including statements from whistleblowers. Ofgem's investigation was comprehensive and wide-ranging, and found that whilst Drax complied with the sustainability standards, it failed to report data accurately. The detail of any documents considered in this investigation is for Ofgem to comment on as the independent regulator.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
In February 2025, DESNZ concluded a consultation on a “transitional support mechanism for large-scale biomass generators”. This included a comprehensive assessment of sustainability criteria for biomass used in the UK, as well as broader environmental and ethical considerations:
Following this consultation, the new Low-Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference (LCD CfD) with Drax, finalised in November 2025, has increased the proportion of biomass that must come from sustainable sources to 100%, tightened the supply chain emissions threshold to 36.6 mgCO2eq/MJ, and excluded material sourced from activities within primary forests and old growth forest areas from receiving subsidy support.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
We work closely with Ofgem to seek continuous improvement to scrutiny processes.
Under Drax’s Low-Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference from 2027, day-to-day scrutiny of biomass sustainability will be provided by the Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC). LCCC will implement significantly bolstered assurance standards, including audits across Drax’s global supply chain, an increased audit sample size, and a raised assurance standard from ‘limited’ to ‘reasonable’. There are also significant financial penalties available should Drax’s compliance fall short.
Ofgem will continue to regulate compliance with Drax’s licence conditions, with the powers to launch investigations and issue fines for breaches.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
Ofgem is an independent regulator and HM Treasury has principal oversight over Ofgem’s finances. As an independent regulator and Non-Ministerial Government Department, Ofgem is responsible for setting its own internal policies and controls in-line with its legal functions and duties, and it is directly accountable to Parliament for the performance of its functions and duties.
However, the Department collaborates with Ofgem, in line with the Greening Government Commitments (GGCs), to work towards our mutual net zero 2050 target. This includes reviewing our respective environmental impact and ensuring that Ofgem’s operations and procurement support are delivered in advance of the government’s targets.
Ofgem, with guidance from the Department, use the Greening Government Commitments as the main measure of progress – these commitments span the period from 2021-2025 and set out a sustainability framework for government departments.
Ofgem’s annual report that outlines their data governance and sustainability arrangements: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2025-04/Ofgem-annual-report-and-accounts-2023-2024.pdf
We have strengthened the sustainability criteria for large-scale biomass generation from the previous government to ensure wood from primary forest is not used for energy generation. Under new arrangements as part of the Low Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference this includes increasing the proportion of woody biomass that must come from sustainable sources from 70% to 100% and clarifying explicitly that no subsidy will be paid for electricity generated from material sourced from primary forest and old growth areas. We are also working with Ofgem and the Low Carbon Contracts Company to ensure there is robust appropriate assurance and enforcement activity to support this.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
2 Department for Science, Innovation & Technology Questions
(View all Oliver Dowden's DSIT questions)The Intellectual Property Office funds the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit or PIPCU. PIPCU and Trading Standards work in concert with the Intellectual Property Office to undertake multi-agency efforts to disrupt counterfeiting activity. We continue to advocate for IP Crime as a high-harm, high-impact crime that requires a system response rather than a fragmented approach.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The government is engaging insurers and brokers to encourage clear, proportionate conversations about cyber risk and good cyber hygiene. Insurers typically take risk‑based approaches to underwriting and the government is encouraging the inclusion of fundamental cyber security measures, such as Cyber Essentials.
Data backups are a key part of the cyber incident response and recovery process and are critical to an organisation’s cyber resilience. The Cyber Essentials scheme focuses on defensive technical controls to prevent the most common cyber threats by stopping attackers gaining access. Data backup is not preventative, and therefore not a requirement for the scheme. However, the Cyber Essentials guidance makes clear that data backup is essential for recovery following a successful attack and strongly encourages organisations to implement a backup solution. The scheme is continually reviewed to ensure the controls remain appropriate and effective.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
25 Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport Questions
(View all Oliver Dowden's DCMS questions)The Department of Culture, Media and Sport recognises that the freelance workforce is crucial to the success of the UK's world-leading creative industries, and we are committed to listening to the voices of the self-employed as we develop policies for the creative industries. The Creative Industries Sector Plan committed to increasing the diversity of the creative workforce, which includes ensuring that parents and carers can continue sustainable careers.
It is good to see initiatives such as Raising Films to support parents and carers in this sector, showing positive industry action. More broadly, the Government has committed to a review of the parental leave and pay system. The review will look at whether support available meets the needs of other working families who do not qualify for existing leave and pay entitlements, such as self-employed parents.
Where staff in the Film and HETV sector have employee status, they will benefit from reforms delivered through the Employment Rights Act including changes to make it more likely that flexible working requests are accepted, making paternity and unpaid parental leave a ‘day one’ right, and making it unlawful to dismiss a woman who is pregnant, including for six months after her return to work - except in specific circumstances. We are also supporting carers who want to work alongside managing their caring responsibilities is an important element of our plans to modernise the world of work. This is why we are reviewing the implementation of carer's leave and looking at where any improvements may be needed.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out our approach to developing a high-quality and targeted skills and training offer, meeting the workforce requirements of the creative industries. This includes responding to the rapid changes in the screen sector to build a resilient skills base that can adapt and thrive as new opportunities emerge, and to retain knowledge within the domestic freelance workforce. We are supporting industry to develop skills passports, which will support the documenting and transfer of industry-recognised skills and competencies.
The Government’s £10 million investment in the National Film and Television School (NFTS) will deliver 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship opportunities and has unlocked £11 million in private investment from partners including Disney, the Broccoli Foundation, and Sky. The investment is focused on increasing access for disabled students and providing structured career paths. This adds to the Government's investment in infrastructure to support virtual production and adoption of emerging technology as part of the government’s £75.6 million investment in the CoSTAR programme and its expansion through DCMS's £25 million Createch Futures.
As part of the BFI National Lottery Funding Plan 2026-2029, £35.55 million will also be provided for Skills and Workforce Development. This includes a refreshed BFI Film Academy with additional Government funding, continuation of the BFI National Lottery Skills Clusters Fund and the WorkWise for Screen pilot.
More broadly, this Government is transforming the apprenticeships offer into a new growth and skills offer, which will offer greater flexibility to employers and learners. As of August 2025, shorter apprenticeships are now possible for screen and audio production assistant apprentices, and from April 2026, we will introduce short course ‘apprenticeship units’ in areas such as digital and AI. Additionally, Skills Bootcamps continue to offer free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks in areas including Film Production and Screen Crafts, giving people the chance to build sector-specific skills with an offer of a job interview on completion.
In November, Skills England also introduced the UK Standard Skills Classification, the first standardised skills framework of its kind in our country, to help everyone from individual job seekers to major employers to navigate the world of skills with confidence.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out our approach to developing a high-quality and targeted skills and training offer, meeting the workforce requirements of the creative industries. This includes responding to the rapid changes in the screen sector to build a resilient skills base that can adapt and thrive as new opportunities emerge, and to retain knowledge within the domestic freelance workforce. We are supporting industry to develop skills passports, which will support the documenting and transfer of industry-recognised skills and competencies.
The Government’s £10 million investment in the National Film and Television School (NFTS) will deliver 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship opportunities and has unlocked £11 million in private investment from partners including Disney, the Broccoli Foundation, and Sky. The investment is focused on increasing access for disabled students and providing structured career paths. This adds to the Government's investment in infrastructure to support virtual production and adoption of emerging technology as part of the government’s £75.6 million investment in the CoSTAR programme and its expansion through DCMS's £25 million Createch Futures.
As part of the BFI National Lottery Funding Plan 2026-2029, £35.55 million will also be provided for Skills and Workforce Development. This includes a refreshed BFI Film Academy with additional Government funding, continuation of the BFI National Lottery Skills Clusters Fund and the WorkWise for Screen pilot.
More broadly, this Government is transforming the apprenticeships offer into a new growth and skills offer, which will offer greater flexibility to employers and learners. As of August 2025, shorter apprenticeships are now possible for screen and audio production assistant apprentices, and from April 2026, we will introduce short course ‘apprenticeship units’ in areas such as digital and AI. Additionally, Skills Bootcamps continue to offer free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks in areas including Film Production and Screen Crafts, giving people the chance to build sector-specific skills with an offer of a job interview on completion.
In November, Skills England also introduced the UK Standard Skills Classification, the first standardised skills framework of its kind in our country, to help everyone from individual job seekers to major employers to navigate the world of skills with confidence.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out our approach to developing a high-quality and targeted skills and training offer, meeting the workforce requirements of the creative industries. This includes responding to the rapid changes in the screen sector to build a resilient skills base that can adapt and thrive as new opportunities emerge, and to retain knowledge within the domestic freelance workforce. We are supporting industry to develop skills passports, which will support the documenting and transfer of industry-recognised skills and competencies.
The Government’s £10 million investment in the National Film and Television School (NFTS) will deliver 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship opportunities and has unlocked £11 million in private investment from partners including Disney, the Broccoli Foundation, and Sky. The investment is focused on increasing access for disabled students and providing structured career paths. This adds to the Government's investment in infrastructure to support virtual production and adoption of emerging technology as part of the government’s £75.6 million investment in the CoSTAR programme and its expansion through DCMS's £25 million Createch Futures.
As part of the BFI National Lottery Funding Plan 2026-2029, £35.55 million will also be provided for Skills and Workforce Development. This includes a refreshed BFI Film Academy with additional Government funding, continuation of the BFI National Lottery Skills Clusters Fund and the WorkWise for Screen pilot.
More broadly, this Government is transforming the apprenticeships offer into a new growth and skills offer, which will offer greater flexibility to employers and learners. As of August 2025, shorter apprenticeships are now possible for screen and audio production assistant apprentices, and from April 2026, we will introduce short course ‘apprenticeship units’ in areas such as digital and AI. Additionally, Skills Bootcamps continue to offer free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks in areas including Film Production and Screen Crafts, giving people the chance to build sector-specific skills with an offer of a job interview on completion.
In November, Skills England also introduced the UK Standard Skills Classification, the first standardised skills framework of its kind in our country, to help everyone from individual job seekers to major employers to navigate the world of skills with confidence.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out our approach to developing a high-quality and targeted skills and training offer, meeting the workforce requirements of the creative industries. This includes responding to the rapid changes in the screen sector to build a resilient skills base that can adapt and thrive as new opportunities emerge, and to retain knowledge within the domestic freelance workforce. We are supporting industry to develop skills passports, which will support the documenting and transfer of industry-recognised skills and competencies.
The Government’s £10 million investment in the National Film and Television School (NFTS) will deliver 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship opportunities and has unlocked £11 million in private investment from partners including Disney, the Broccoli Foundation, and Sky. The investment is focused on increasing access for disabled students and providing structured career paths. This adds to the Government's investment in infrastructure to support virtual production and adoption of emerging technology as part of the government’s £75.6 million investment in the CoSTAR programme and its expansion through DCMS's £25 million Createch Futures.
As part of the BFI National Lottery Funding Plan 2026-2029, £35.55 million will also be provided for Skills and Workforce Development. This includes a refreshed BFI Film Academy with additional Government funding, continuation of the BFI National Lottery Skills Clusters Fund and the WorkWise for Screen pilot.
More broadly, this Government is transforming the apprenticeships offer into a new growth and skills offer, which will offer greater flexibility to employers and learners. As of August 2025, shorter apprenticeships are now possible for screen and audio production assistant apprentices, and from April 2026, we will introduce short course ‘apprenticeship units’ in areas such as digital and AI. Additionally, Skills Bootcamps continue to offer free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks in areas including Film Production and Screen Crafts, giving people the chance to build sector-specific skills with an offer of a job interview on completion.
In November, Skills England also introduced the UK Standard Skills Classification, the first standardised skills framework of its kind in our country, to help everyone from individual job seekers to major employers to navigate the world of skills with confidence.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out our approach to developing a high-quality and targeted skills and training offer, meeting the workforce requirements of the creative industries. This includes responding to the rapid changes in the screen sector to build a resilient skills base that can adapt and thrive as new opportunities emerge, and to retain knowledge within the domestic freelance workforce. We are supporting industry to develop skills passports, which will support the documenting and transfer of industry-recognised skills and competencies.
The Government’s £10 million investment in the National Film and Television School (NFTS) will deliver 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship opportunities and has unlocked £11 million in private investment from partners including Disney, the Broccoli Foundation, and Sky. The investment is focused on increasing access for disabled students and providing structured career paths. This adds to the Government's investment in infrastructure to support virtual production and adoption of emerging technology as part of the government’s £75.6 million investment in the CoSTAR programme and its expansion through DCMS's £25 million Createch Futures.
As part of the BFI National Lottery Funding Plan 2026-2029, £35.55 million will also be provided for Skills and Workforce Development. This includes a refreshed BFI Film Academy with additional Government funding, continuation of the BFI National Lottery Skills Clusters Fund and the WorkWise for Screen pilot.
More broadly, this Government is transforming the apprenticeships offer into a new growth and skills offer, which will offer greater flexibility to employers and learners. As of August 2025, shorter apprenticeships are now possible for screen and audio production assistant apprentices, and from April 2026, we will introduce short course ‘apprenticeship units’ in areas such as digital and AI. Additionally, Skills Bootcamps continue to offer free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks in areas including Film Production and Screen Crafts, giving people the chance to build sector-specific skills with an offer of a job interview on completion.
In November, Skills England also introduced the UK Standard Skills Classification, the first standardised skills framework of its kind in our country, to help everyone from individual job seekers to major employers to navigate the world of skills with confidence.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out our approach to developing a high-quality and targeted skills and training offer, meeting the workforce requirements of the creative industries. This includes responding to the rapid changes in the screen sector to build a resilient skills base that can adapt and thrive as new opportunities emerge, and to retain knowledge within the domestic freelance workforce. We are supporting industry to develop skills passports, which will support the documenting and transfer of industry-recognised skills and competencies.
The Government’s £10 million investment in the National Film and Television School (NFTS) will deliver 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship opportunities and has unlocked £11 million in private investment from partners including Disney, the Broccoli Foundation, and Sky. The investment is focused on increasing access for disabled students and providing structured career paths. This adds to the Government's investment in infrastructure to support virtual production and adoption of emerging technology as part of the government’s £75.6 million investment in the CoSTAR programme and its expansion through DCMS's £25 million Createch Futures.
As part of the BFI National Lottery Funding Plan 2026-2029, £35.55 million will also be provided for Skills and Workforce Development. This includes a refreshed BFI Film Academy with additional Government funding, continuation of the BFI National Lottery Skills Clusters Fund and the WorkWise for Screen pilot.
More broadly, this Government is transforming the apprenticeships offer into a new growth and skills offer, which will offer greater flexibility to employers and learners. As of August 2025, shorter apprenticeships are now possible for screen and audio production assistant apprentices, and from April 2026, we will introduce short course ‘apprenticeship units’ in areas such as digital and AI. Additionally, Skills Bootcamps continue to offer free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks in areas including Film Production and Screen Crafts, giving people the chance to build sector-specific skills with an offer of a job interview on completion.
In November, Skills England also introduced the UK Standard Skills Classification, the first standardised skills framework of its kind in our country, to help everyone from individual job seekers to major employers to navigate the world of skills with confidence.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Department of Culture, Media and Sport recognises that the freelance workforce is crucial to the success of the UK's world-leading creative industries, including the screen sector, but we understand that many self-employed workers in the creative industries desire greater job security.
We committed in the Creative Industries Sector Plan to increase the productivity, resilience and diversity of the creative workforce, including through the appointment of a Freelance Champion, who will advocate for the creative sector’s freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. Building on the Sector Plan, we are developing a sector Jobs Plan which will provide a clear direction of travel for government and industry to develop the domestic workforce together. The Creative Industries Jobs Plan will be published later this year.
For film and TV specifically, the global market is evolving quickly, creating significant opportunities for the UK. We remain an open and highly attractive destination for international investment, including £5.8 billion in inward screen investment in 2025 and record film production spend, and this has helped deliver some of our most successful content. Major global studios and streamers are investing directly in UK skills and talent, including through support for the National Film and Television School (NFTS) and initiatives like the Prime Video Pathway. This investment strengthens our workforce and we want it to continue.
We are pairing global investment with strong public action to build resilience across the sector. Through the Creative Industries Sector Plan, we are delivering a £75 million Screen Growth Package to scale up domestic production, £10 million for the NFTS to create 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship places, and £150 million through the Creative Places Growth Fund to expand film and TV activity across the regions. These measures sit alongside competitive tax reliefs, including the Independent Film Tax Credit, modernised co‑production treaties and expanded finance via the British Business Bank.
We have also strengthened terms of trade through the Media Act and have asked the Competition and Markets Authority, supported by Ofcom, to consider how market developments, including convergence, should inform future competition assessments. Through the BBC Charter Review and ongoing engagement with streamers, independents and Public Service Media (PSM) providers, we will continue to ensure that commissioning practices support a sustainable workforce and a thriving UK screen sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Department of Culture, Media and Sport recognises that the freelance workforce is crucial to the success of the UK's world-leading creative industries, including the screen sector, but we understand that many self-employed workers in the creative industries desire greater job security.
We committed in the Creative Industries Sector Plan to increase the productivity, resilience and diversity of the creative workforce, including through the appointment of a Freelance Champion, who will advocate for the creative sector’s freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. Building on the Sector Plan, we are developing a sector Jobs Plan which will provide a clear direction of travel for government and industry to develop the domestic workforce together. The Creative Industries Jobs Plan will be published later this year.
For film and TV specifically, the global market is evolving quickly, creating significant opportunities for the UK. We remain an open and highly attractive destination for international investment, including £5.8 billion in inward screen investment in 2025 and record film production spend, and this has helped deliver some of our most successful content. Major global studios and streamers are investing directly in UK skills and talent, including through support for the National Film and Television School (NFTS) and initiatives like the Prime Video Pathway. This investment strengthens our workforce and we want it to continue.
We are pairing global investment with strong public action to build resilience across the sector. Through the Creative Industries Sector Plan, we are delivering a £75 million Screen Growth Package to scale up domestic production, £10 million for the NFTS to create 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship places, and £150 million through the Creative Places Growth Fund to expand film and TV activity across the regions. These measures sit alongside competitive tax reliefs, including the Independent Film Tax Credit, modernised co‑production treaties and expanded finance via the British Business Bank.
We have also strengthened terms of trade through the Media Act and have asked the Competition and Markets Authority, supported by Ofcom, to consider how market developments, including convergence, should inform future competition assessments. Through the BBC Charter Review and ongoing engagement with streamers, independents and Public Service Media (PSM) providers, we will continue to ensure that commissioning practices support a sustainable workforce and a thriving UK screen sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Department of Culture, Media and Sport recognises that the freelance workforce is crucial to the success of the UK's world-leading creative industries, including the screen sector, but we understand that many self-employed workers in the creative industries desire greater job security.
We committed in the Creative Industries Sector Plan to increase the productivity, resilience and diversity of the creative workforce, including through the appointment of a Freelance Champion, who will advocate for the creative sector’s freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. Building on the Sector Plan, we are developing a sector Jobs Plan which will provide a clear direction of travel for government and industry to develop the domestic workforce together. The Creative Industries Jobs Plan will be published later this year.
For film and TV specifically, the global market is evolving quickly, creating significant opportunities for the UK. We remain an open and highly attractive destination for international investment, including £5.8 billion in inward screen investment in 2025 and record film production spend, and this has helped deliver some of our most successful content. Major global studios and streamers are investing directly in UK skills and talent, including through support for the National Film and Television School (NFTS) and initiatives like the Prime Video Pathway. This investment strengthens our workforce and we want it to continue.
We are pairing global investment with strong public action to build resilience across the sector. Through the Creative Industries Sector Plan, we are delivering a £75 million Screen Growth Package to scale up domestic production, £10 million for the NFTS to create 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship places, and £150 million through the Creative Places Growth Fund to expand film and TV activity across the regions. These measures sit alongside competitive tax reliefs, including the Independent Film Tax Credit, modernised co‑production treaties and expanded finance via the British Business Bank.
We have also strengthened terms of trade through the Media Act and have asked the Competition and Markets Authority, supported by Ofcom, to consider how market developments, including convergence, should inform future competition assessments. Through the BBC Charter Review and ongoing engagement with streamers, independents and Public Service Media (PSM) providers, we will continue to ensure that commissioning practices support a sustainable workforce and a thriving UK screen sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Department of Culture, Media and Sport recognises that the freelance workforce is crucial to the success of the UK's world-leading creative industries, including the screen sector, but we understand that many self-employed workers in the creative industries desire greater job security.
We committed in the Creative Industries Sector Plan to increase the productivity, resilience and diversity of the creative workforce, including through the appointment of a Freelance Champion, who will advocate for the creative sector’s freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. Building on the Sector Plan, we are developing a sector Jobs Plan which will provide a clear direction of travel for government and industry to develop the domestic workforce together. The Creative Industries Jobs Plan will be published later this year.
For film and TV specifically, the global market is evolving quickly, creating significant opportunities for the UK. We remain an open and highly attractive destination for international investment, including £5.8 billion in inward screen investment in 2025 and record film production spend, and this has helped deliver some of our most successful content. Major global studios and streamers are investing directly in UK skills and talent, including through support for the National Film and Television School (NFTS) and initiatives like the Prime Video Pathway. This investment strengthens our workforce and we want it to continue.
We are pairing global investment with strong public action to build resilience across the sector. Through the Creative Industries Sector Plan, we are delivering a £75 million Screen Growth Package to scale up domestic production, £10 million for the NFTS to create 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship places, and £150 million through the Creative Places Growth Fund to expand film and TV activity across the regions. These measures sit alongside competitive tax reliefs, including the Independent Film Tax Credit, modernised co‑production treaties and expanded finance via the British Business Bank.
We have also strengthened terms of trade through the Media Act and have asked the Competition and Markets Authority, supported by Ofcom, to consider how market developments, including convergence, should inform future competition assessments. Through the BBC Charter Review and ongoing engagement with streamers, independents and Public Service Media (PSM) providers, we will continue to ensure that commissioning practices support a sustainable workforce and a thriving UK screen sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Department of Culture, Media and Sport recognises that the freelance workforce is crucial to the success of the UK's world-leading creative industries, including the screen sector, but we understand that many self-employed workers in the creative industries desire greater job security.
We committed in the Creative Industries Sector Plan to increase the productivity, resilience and diversity of the creative workforce, including through the appointment of a Freelance Champion, who will advocate for the creative sector’s freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. Building on the Sector Plan, we are developing a sector Jobs Plan which will provide a clear direction of travel for government and industry to develop the domestic workforce together. The Creative Industries Jobs Plan will be published later this year.
For film and TV specifically, the global market is evolving quickly, creating significant opportunities for the UK. We remain an open and highly attractive destination for international investment, including £5.8 billion in inward screen investment in 2025 and record film production spend, and this has helped deliver some of our most successful content. Major global studios and streamers are investing directly in UK skills and talent, including through support for the National Film and Television School (NFTS) and initiatives like the Prime Video Pathway. This investment strengthens our workforce and we want it to continue.
We are pairing global investment with strong public action to build resilience across the sector. Through the Creative Industries Sector Plan, we are delivering a £75 million Screen Growth Package to scale up domestic production, £10 million for the NFTS to create 2,000 new trainee and apprenticeship places, and £150 million through the Creative Places Growth Fund to expand film and TV activity across the regions. These measures sit alongside competitive tax reliefs, including the Independent Film Tax Credit, modernised co‑production treaties and expanded finance via the British Business Bank.
We have also strengthened terms of trade through the Media Act and have asked the Competition and Markets Authority, supported by Ofcom, to consider how market developments, including convergence, should inform future competition assessments. Through the BBC Charter Review and ongoing engagement with streamers, independents and Public Service Media (PSM) providers, we will continue to ensure that commissioning practices support a sustainable workforce and a thriving UK screen sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out how government will work with industry to develop a high quality and responsive training offer to meet the workforce requirements of the creative industries, including film as a frontier industry. This includes increasing the quantity of creative training pathways such as regional creative skills bootcamps - for example, the Screen Crafts & Digital Skills with a Camera pathway, which has recently been available in Yorkshire.
In September 2025, the government introduced creative Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) to support skills such as animation and audiovisual production, and shorter apprenticeships are now also possible for Screen and Audio Production Assistant apprentices. We are continuing to work with industry to support sector training pathways through a DCMS and Skills England led Creative Sector Skills Forum.
We also committed to increasing the resilience of the workforce, including creative freelancers, across the sector. DCMS will soon appoint a creative Freelance Champion, to advocate for the sector’s creative freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. We will also continue to support the industry’s work to deliver the Good Work Review action plan, which aims to strengthen job quality across the sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out how government will work with industry to develop a high quality and responsive training offer to meet the workforce requirements of the creative industries, including film as a frontier industry. This includes increasing the quantity of creative training pathways such as regional creative skills bootcamps - for example, the Screen Crafts & Digital Skills with a Camera pathway, which has recently been available in Yorkshire.
In September 2025, the government introduced creative Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) to support skills such as animation and audiovisual production, and shorter apprenticeships are now also possible for Screen and Audio Production Assistant apprentices. We are continuing to work with industry to support sector training pathways through a DCMS and Skills England led Creative Sector Skills Forum.
We also committed to increasing the resilience of the workforce, including creative freelancers, across the sector. DCMS will soon appoint a creative Freelance Champion, to advocate for the sector’s creative freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. We will also continue to support the industry’s work to deliver the Good Work Review action plan, which aims to strengthen job quality across the sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out how government will work with industry to develop a high quality and responsive training offer to meet the workforce requirements of the creative industries, including film as a frontier industry. This includes increasing the quantity of creative training pathways such as regional creative skills bootcamps - for example, the Screen Crafts & Digital Skills with a Camera pathway, which has recently been available in Yorkshire.
In September 2025, the government introduced creative Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) to support skills such as animation and audiovisual production, and shorter apprenticeships are now also possible for Screen and Audio Production Assistant apprentices. We are continuing to work with industry to support sector training pathways through a DCMS and Skills England led Creative Sector Skills Forum.
We also committed to increasing the resilience of the workforce, including creative freelancers, across the sector. DCMS will soon appoint a creative Freelance Champion, to advocate for the sector’s creative freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. We will also continue to support the industry’s work to deliver the Good Work Review action plan, which aims to strengthen job quality across the sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out how government will work with industry to develop a high quality and responsive training offer to meet the workforce requirements of the creative industries, including film as a frontier industry. This includes increasing the quantity of creative training pathways such as regional creative skills bootcamps - for example, the Screen Crafts & Digital Skills with a Camera pathway, which has recently been available in Yorkshire.
In September 2025, the government introduced creative Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) to support skills such as animation and audiovisual production, and shorter apprenticeships are now also possible for Screen and Audio Production Assistant apprentices. We are continuing to work with industry to support sector training pathways through a DCMS and Skills England led Creative Sector Skills Forum.
We also committed to increasing the resilience of the workforce, including creative freelancers, across the sector. DCMS will soon appoint a creative Freelance Champion, to advocate for the sector’s creative freelancers within government and be a member of the Creative Industries Council. We will also continue to support the industry’s work to deliver the Good Work Review action plan, which aims to strengthen job quality across the sector.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The government is committed to freedom of speech, including in the cultural sector, and the Secretary of State has expressed an unequivocal ambition that the era of the government stoking “culture wars” should be over. The government is clear that whilst it is right that protections from discrimination exist, this does not prohibit people from expressing their views, opinions or beliefs which are also protected. However, it is important to protect people from illegal discrimination, harassment, and hate speech.
Arts Council England (ACE) makes decisions about which organisations and projects to fund independently of government and Ministers, which means there is no question of any political involvement in arts funding decisions. ACE supports freedom of speech within the limits of the law and recognises the expression of different beliefs as protected under the Equality Act 2010. ACE staff receive training on these matters and are guided by their Dignity at Work policy.
DCMS expects all ACE staff to uphold the Nolan principles, which includes objectivity. That principle notes that holders of public office must act and make decisions impartially, fairly and on merit, using the best evidence and without discrimination or bias. ACE also supports the rights of artists and cultural organisations to express themselves freely, including through work that is challenging, provocative, or political. They have also published guidance aimed at supporting cultural organisations in managing complex situations that might arise from presenting challenging work, which is available on their website.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The government is committed to freedom of speech, including in the cultural sector, and the Secretary of State has expressed an unequivocal ambition that the era of the government stoking “culture wars” should be over. The government is clear that whilst it is right that protections from discrimination exist, this does not prohibit people from expressing their views, opinions or beliefs which are also protected. However, it is important to protect people from illegal discrimination, harassment, and hate speech.
Arts Council England (ACE) makes decisions about which organisations and projects to fund independently of government and Ministers, which means there is no question of any political involvement in arts funding decisions. ACE supports freedom of speech within the limits of the law and recognises the expression of different beliefs as protected under the Equality Act 2010. ACE staff receive training on these matters and are guided by their Dignity at Work policy.
DCMS expects all ACE staff to uphold the Nolan principles, which includes objectivity. That principle notes that holders of public office must act and make decisions impartially, fairly and on merit, using the best evidence and without discrimination or bias. ACE also supports the rights of artists and cultural organisations to express themselves freely, including through work that is challenging, provocative, or political. They have also published guidance aimed at supporting cultural organisations in managing complex situations that might arise from presenting challenging work, which is available on their website.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Secretary of State meets regularly with the Chair of the BBC to discuss a wide range of issues.
For any public service broadcaster, accountability and trust are key. It is important that the BBC continues to demonstrate how it is working diligently to maintain the highest standards. The BBC is editorially and operationally independent of Government, and this is a crucial component of why people trust it.
The Charter Review is a key opportunity to set the BBC up for success long into the future. The Charter Review Green Paper published in December sets out the Government's ambition to ensure the BBC remains a trusted, independent source of news and consults on options to ensure it maintains the highest editorial standards.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
Following the Licensing taskforce report, the Government published a Call for Evidence on reforming the licensing system on 7 October, which closed on 6 November. The Call for Evidence invited views on the impact of licensing reforms, including in relation to Recommendation 4 of the taskforce on ending the requirement for printed statutory notices in local newspapers for alcohol licences. The reforms collectively aim to create a modern, proportionate, and enabling system that supports economic growth, revitalises high streets and fosters vibrant communities.
More broadly, the Government is concerned about the sustainability of local journalism and DCMS is developing a Local Media Strategy, in recognition of the importance of this vital sector. We also recognise that local press continues to play a central role in informing local communities, and that statutory notices can be important in helping inform the public of decisions made by their council which may affect their quality of life, local services or amenities, or their property.
Additionally, the sector’s Public Notice Portal is a welcome innovation, taking advantage of print publishers’ growing digital audiences and providing a centralised resource for all types of public notice. We also welcome the Portal's current expansion to include archive and consultation functions to help public bodies and commercial entities engage with the public more effectively.
DCMS is monitoring the progress of the Portal, and the effect that it has on the audience reach of public notices. This type of industry innovation and collaboration is integral to securing the sector’s future. It will be taken into account in our planned review of statutory notices as part of the Local Media Strategy, which will more broadly consider the merits of making changes to existing requirements to place statutory notices in print local newspapers, including the impact this has on local transparency and the newspaper industry, including in Hertfordshire. The review will also take forward final decisions on the future of alcohol licence notices. More will be announced on the Strategy and the review in due course.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
Following the Licensing taskforce report, the Government published a Call for Evidence on reforming the licensing system on 7 October, which closed on 6 November. The Call for Evidence invited views on the impact of licensing reforms, including in relation to Recommendation 4 of the taskforce on ending the requirement for printed statutory notices in local newspapers for alcohol licences. The reforms collectively aim to create a modern, proportionate, and enabling system that supports economic growth, revitalises high streets and fosters vibrant communities.
More broadly, the Government is concerned about the sustainability of local journalism and DCMS is developing a Local Media Strategy, in recognition of the importance of this vital sector. We also recognise that local press continues to play a central role in informing local communities, and that statutory notices can be important in helping inform the public of decisions made by their council which may affect their quality of life, local services or amenities, or their property.
Additionally, the sector’s Public Notice Portal is a welcome innovation, taking advantage of print publishers’ growing digital audiences and providing a centralised resource for all types of public notice. We also welcome the Portal's current expansion to include archive and consultation functions to help public bodies and commercial entities engage with the public more effectively.
DCMS is monitoring the progress of the Portal, and the effect that it has on the audience reach of public notices. This type of industry innovation and collaboration is integral to securing the sector’s future. It will be taken into account in our planned review of statutory notices as part of the Local Media Strategy, which will more broadly consider the merits of making changes to existing requirements to place statutory notices in print local newspapers, including the impact this has on local transparency and the newspaper industry, including in Hertfordshire. The review will also take forward final decisions on the future of alcohol licence notices. More will be announced on the Strategy and the review in due course.
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport meets regularly with BBC leadership, including its Board, to discuss a range of topics.
The Government believes that it is absolutely fundamental that stories about the events in Gaza are told and heard, but are done so with the utmost care, transparency and sensitivity. Under its Royal Charter and Ofcom’s wider Broadcasting Code, the BBC has a duty to provide accurate and impartial news and information. This responsibility is particularly important when it comes to coverage of highly sensitive issues, such as the conflict in Gaza. Ofcom, as the BBC’s independent regulator, is responsible for ensuring BBC coverage is impartial and accurate under the Broadcasting Code and BBC Charter.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
The Government’s Industrial Strategy will prioritise the creative industries.
We will ensure that the sector can continue to drive growth, boost opportunities and help people to fulfil their creative potential across the UK, including in Hertsmere. Our support includes:
Providing £1 million in funding for 2025/26 for the British Film Commission, which has previously provided support for both Elstree Studios and Sky Studios Elstree in Hertsmere;
Expanding the global reach of independent content through with a further £7 million for the UK Global Screen Fund in 2025/26;
Building on the success of the screen sector tax reliefs, by introducing the enhanced Independent Film Tax Credit, and a new 5% uplift on the rate of relief for visual effects.
Opportunities to drive growth in our screen sectors exist across the whole of the UK, with seven established film production hubs and many more areas brimming with potential and ambition. The film industry also benefits from two major UK Research and Innovation programmes run by the Arts and Humanities Research Council: the £75.6 million CoSTAR programme and the £56 million Creative Industries Clusters programme
In addition, the British Film Institute has committed £34.2 million National Lottery funding over 2023-2026 for education and skills programmes. This includes £9 million to develop skills clusters, one of which has been set up to cover the Metro London area, which includes Hertfordshire, led by Film London.
Minister of State (Department for Business and Trade)
The Government’s Industrial Strategy will prioritise the creative industries.
We will ensure that the sector can continue to drive growth, boost opportunities and help people to fulfil their creative potential across the UK, including in Hertsmere. Our support includes:
Providing £1 million in funding for 2025/26 for the British Film Commission, which has previously provided support for both Elstree Studios and Sky Studios Elstree in Hertsmere;
Expanding the global reach of independent content through with a further £7 million for the UK Global Screen Fund in 2025/26;
Building on the success of the screen sector tax reliefs, by introducing the enhanced Independent Film Tax Credit, and a new 5% uplift on the rate of relief for visual effects.
Opportunities to drive growth in our screen sectors exist across the whole of the UK, with seven established film production hubs and many more areas brimming with potential and ambition. The film industry also benefits from two major UK Research and Innovation programmes run by the Arts and Humanities Research Council: the £75.6 million CoSTAR programme and the £56 million Creative Industries Clusters programme
In addition, the British Film Institute has committed £34.2 million National Lottery funding over 2023-2026 for education and skills programmes. This includes £9 million to develop skills clusters, one of which has been set up to cover the Metro London area, which includes Hertfordshire, led by Film London.
Minister of State (Department for Business and Trade)