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More than 90% of MPs in a new poll believe the UK creative industries are vitally important to the future of the UK’s economy, job creation and positive perceptions of Brand Britain.

The poll by Dods Research for the industry members of the Creative Industries Council (CIC) also found that MPs’ support to prioritise the creative industries on their own political parties’ agendas has increased since similar polls were conducted in 2014 and 2015. In the latest research, 75% of MPs agreed that creative industries should be high on their party’s agenda, up from 61% in 2014.

The poll also showed widespread agreement about the importance of the creative industries to the future growth of the UK’s main cities. This growth contribution was deemed to be most important in London (95% of MPs), Edinburgh (94%), Manchester (93%) and Liverpool (90%).

However, MPs were divided over the impact of Brexit on the creative industries, with 45% of respondents believing Brexit would involve a positive impact and 46% anticipating a negative one. Only 9% believed Brexit would involve no change for the creative industries.

There was also some divergence of opinion when MPs were asked to choose from a list of likely long-term drivers of success for the UK creative industries.

Developing UK skills and upgrading broadband infrastructure were cited by 79% and 70% of respondents, closely followed by development of creative clusters (64%) and support for starting and growing creative businesses (62%). There was less support for investing in science, research and innovation (43%).

Minister for the Creative Industries Matt Hancock said: “As this report highlights, the UK’s world-leading creative industries are valued by MPs across the political divide. We are committed to helping this vital economic sector to grow and develop, and through the Industrial Strategy, are working with industry leaders to develop a Sector Deal that helps seize future opportunities.” To read the CIC’s press release in full and for a link to the poll, click here.

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