Autumn Budget: Creative UK’s Response Statement

Responding to the budget, Caroline Norbury OBE, Chief Executive of Creative UK – the national network for the Cultural and Creative Industries – said:

“Today’s Budget shows the direction the UK Government is taking to set the scene for what is yet to come – industrial strategy, policy change and investment for the future. The expansion of Creative Careers, regional investment in the North-East’s Crown Works studio and the continuation of vital fiscal incentive schemes such as those outlined of VFX are welcome steps towards further growth.

“The cultural and creative sectors remain a main driving force behind the UK economy, delivering growth and social value, while fuelling local communities, creating jobs, and showcasing the best of Britain to the world. We welcome the UK Government’s commitment to publishing a comprehensive sector plan for the Cultural and Creative Industries, as part of Phase 2 of the Spending Review; and look forward to assurances from the Government that our sector will be stimulated to drive inclusive growth through a quantum of investment, alongside other high-growth areas.

“The UK Government has already recognised the significant potential of the Cultural and Creative Industries and as it builds on the momentum set by the Industrial Strategy, it needs to translate this recognition into strategic, meaningful action. This should be the beginning of a long-term commitment from the UK Government to fully realise the economic and societal impact that culture and creativity can deliver, in partnership with the sector. To truly unlock and harness the potential contribution of the Cultural and Creative Industries, it is essential that the UK Government heeds the Chancellor’s advice: ‘The only way to drive economic growth is to invest, invest, invest.

“This means addressing the barriers to investment faced by so many cultural and creative organisations and inspiring more people to see the value of creative education and careers. Creativity isn’t only a driver of prosperity, but opportunity to define who we are, our place in the world and how we innovate to transform lives. Now is the time to build a future where creativity is respected and embraced as central to our national identity and success.”