The report was the culmination of an inquiry which was launched just over a year ago with a call for evidence from the Committee, which is made up of MPs from across all political parties. PLASA made a detailed written submission as to how the creative industries can be better supported, with a particular emphasis on the value and importance of the Entertainment Technology sector. PLASA's evidence focussed on issues around allowing companies to promote their involvement in the Olympics, tax relief for apprenticeships, improving protection for intellectual property and helping SMEs in the sector to export abroad.
Impressed by the written evidence submission, the Committee invited Matthew Griffiths, PLASA's Chief Executive, to give oral evidence to the inquiry; he appeared alongside singer Sandy Shaw and composer David Arnold in March. He again reiterated concerns around the Olympics and general support for the Entertainment Technology industry.
PLASA were delighted when the Committee published its report and included large chunks of evidence provided by PLASA. Indeed, its very first recommendation was for the Government to "review, as a matter of urgency, whether the Suppliers Recognition Scheme can be improved to meet the objective of allowing British firms to promote their contributions to the 2012 Olympics".
The Committee also quoted Matthew's evidence in relation to tax relief for businesses which hire apprentices and the cutting of regulation around vocational training.
Griffiths commented: "PLASA will use this endorsement of its position to continue to lobby on behalf of the Entertainment Technology sector. In particular, we will continue to push for changes to the Olympics 'Supplier Recognition Scheme', to ensure that all those who contributed to the Games are able to benefit from its economic legacy."
(Lee Baldock)
