British Business of Events publishes political agenda ahead of general election

Think tank and advocacy network The Business of Events (TBOE) has released its policy platform as the UK general election draws to a close.

The programme includes seven recommendations aimed at boosting the UK economy and increasing knowledge exchange through events.

Following UK-wide policy consultations in 2023, TBOE identified the following specific policy initiatives:

1. SIC code updates: ensuring accurate representation and targeted support for the events industry.
2. Easier visa regimes: Making international cooperation easier after Brexit, for both inbound and outbound events.
3. Events Tax Relief Program: Attracting new events and supporting existing ones through financial incentives.
4. Attracting international events: Providing greater support to position the UK as a leading destination for global events.
5. Practical support for competitiveness: Using events as a catalyst for growth across sectors.
6. Investment in Conference Offices: Enabling country and regional offices to drive economic development.
7. Using events to advance policy goals: Using business events as platforms to advance and promote government policies.

Martin Fullard, director of The Business of Events, said: “APG for Events has grown over the last few years and has attracted 32 MSPs from all the main parties before it was dissolved along with Parliament.

“Theresa Villiers has been an excellent Chair and has spoken on behalf of the industry in the House of Commons on numerous occasions. She has been an active supporter of the TBOE and travelled to Belfast for the launch of the Northern Ireland Business Events Strategy.

“Once the elections are over we will be able to reform the group and although we cannot send out any invitations until a new government is in place, we have a large list of constituencies with a large inventory of events within them. With this in mind, a new Policy Agenda will be the scope of the group’s work and our aim is to encourage greater visibility and activity to kick-start a new era of enthusiasm for the sector.”

Download the political agenda here.