Creative UK leads discussion on future of creative industries at Labour Party Conference
// advocacy // creative industries // Creative UK // policy
Today, Monday 28 September, Creative UK – the national network for the cultural and creative industries – has led a powerful roundtable discussion at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, exploring how national policy, devolution and local leadership can drive creative sector growth, investment and opportunity across the UK.
Key policymakers, including Ian Murray MP, Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Online Safety and Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, met with leaders from across the sector, including representatives from Allwyn, the Operator of the National Lottery, Manchester Metropolitan University, YouTube UK, the Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre, Marlow Studios, National Museum Directors’ Council, RADA, Redbag Pictures, OutdoorArtsUK, Norwich Theatre, and Pact.
The conversation centred on both progress made and opportunities presented since the publication of the Creative Industries Sector Plan in 2025. The key topics included how the sector can support the government’s objective of supporting good growth in every postcode, and the opportunities presented by the devolution agenda. There was broad consensus that the sector should work in partnership and speak with one voice to ensure that the government and the investment community understand the value and potential of the cultural and creative industries.
Following on from the roundtable, ‘Piano Lates’ will return to Liverpool for its third consecutive year. Taking place on Monday evening, from 10pm until late, this informal musical gathering will feature live piano from broadcaster and composer Jack Pepper, and pianist Max O’Hara. It’s designed as a space for conference attendees to unwind, reflect, and socialise after a full day of panels, presentations, and policy discussions.
This year’s conference activity has been generously sponsored by Headline Partner, Allwyn UK, the Operator of the National Lottery, and Supporting Partners: YouTube UK, Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre, Pact, Marlow Studios, Manchester Metropolitan University, OutdoorArtsUK, National Museum Directors’ Council, and Norwich Theatre.
Commenting on the activity, Emily Cloke, Chief Executive, Creative UK, said:
“Prime Minister Burnham’s government wants to deliver good growth in every postcode. Investment in the UK’s world-leading creative industries is absolutely central to this ambition.
“The sector is one of the nation’s fastest-growing economic powerhouses — worth £146 billion GVA, 2.4 million jobs, and £70 billion in exports. Creativity is a force multiplier for the wider UK economy — driving innovation, powering productivity, and enabling growth in every sector it touches. Today’s discussion was filled with exciting ideas, about how our government can support regional growth on every level, with creativity at the very heart of the plan.”
Ian Murray MP, the Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts said:
“Our creative industries are one of Britain’s greatest success stories, generating billions for our economy and supporting millions of jobs in every corner of the UK. This government is determined to build on that success, working closely with local leaders and the creative sector to ensure the benefits of growth are felt right across the nation.
“Today’s discussion showed the sheer ambition of our creative industries. From fashion and gaming to music and film, creativity is a powerful driver of growth, investment and quality careers, and it will remain central to our mission of expansion through the whole of the UK.”
Anna Melitt, Director of Public Affairs and National Lottery Relations at Allwyn the Operator of the National Lottery, said:
“The UK’s creative industries are one of our greatest strengths – driving growth, creating jobs and strengthening communities across the country. As operator of The National Lottery, Allwyn UK champions the role our players play in supporting arts, culture and creativity across the UK. We are so proud to be a headline partner of Creative UK at the Labour Party Conference, an organisation who is working to champion the sector and help unlock its potential for communities and the economy. At the heart of our ten-year licence is our ambition to raise more money for Good Causes, helping ensure that The National Lottery continues to support the creative projects, organisations and opportunities that make a difference to people and communities across the UK.”
