MIA Responds to Andy Burnham’s Appointment as UK Prime Minister
LONDON, UK: The Meetings Industry Association (MIA) has welcomed the appointment of Andy Burnham as the new UK Prime Minister, calling on the government to place the business meetings and events industry at the heart of its long-term economic strategy.
In a statement, Shonali Devereaux, Chief Executive of the MIA, said the Prime Minister’s commitment to delivering a “circuit breaker” for Britain presents a valuable opportunity to strengthen collaboration between government and the business events sector.
Business Events Industry Contributes £33.6 Billion to the UK Economy
The MIA highlighted the significant economic impact of the UK’s business meetings and events industry, which contributes approximately £33.6 billion annually to the national economy while supporting businesses, jobs, investment, and innovation across every region of the country.
According to the association, conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, and corporate meetings play a vital role in driving growth across multiple industries. Despite this contribution, the sector believes it continues to receive insufficient attention in national economic policymaking.
MIA Calls for Stronger Government Support
The association urged the new government to ensure the business events industry becomes a central part of Andy Burnham’s proposed 10-year economic plan.
The MIA pointed to the recent report published by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, which outlined several recommendations to strengthen the sector. These include introducing a dedicated National Business Events Strategy, creating a sector-led National Business Events Council, restoring funding for VisitBritain’s business events team, and transferring responsibility for the industry to the Department for Business and Trade.
The report also recommends setting measurable targets for ministerial attendance at major business events to demonstrate stronger government engagement with the industry.
Industry Can Help Address Employment Challenges
The MIA also emphasized the industry’s ability to support employment and workforce development at a time when the UK faces rising unemployment.
The association noted that the business events sector has traditionally offered accessible career opportunities across a wide range of skill levels. However, its latest MIA Insights Report found that nearly 90% of industry respondents believe rising employment costs are making it increasingly difficult to recruit, train, and retain new talent.
The organization warned that increasing employer costs could limit businesses’ ability to invest in workforce development and future growth.
Employment Policies Should Reflect Industry Realities
While supporting the government’s commitment to improving living standards and protecting workers, the MIA stressed that employment policies must also consider the challenges facing labour-intensive industries.
The association encouraged the government to work closely with the sector on issues such as Employer National Insurance Contributions and other rising employment expenses. It believes practical policy reforms would enable businesses to continue creating jobs, investing in skills, and contributing to long-term economic growth.
MIA Seeks Stronger Partnership with Government
The Meetings Industry Association believes Andy Burnham’s appointment marks an important opportunity to establish a stronger partnership between government and the business events industry.
By recognizing the sector’s contribution to trade, investment, innovation, and employment, the MIA says the government can unlock further economic growth while supporting businesses across the UK.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside policymakers and industry partners to ensure the business meetings and events sector receives the recognition and support needed to maximize its contribution to the UK’s future economy.
