House of Lords to launch enquiry into UK ad industry with evidence from AA chief
An inquiry into the future of the UK’s advertising industry is set to launch later this month, with the chief executive of the Advertising Association, Stephen Woodford, on standby for the first committee interview at the House of Lords.
Written evidence will be submitted until Friday 20 October
The inquiry will examine how the industry can maintain the development of skills needed, an access to international talent, the effects of digital advertising growth and how the government can support creative and business ‘clusters’.
The evidence session featuring Woodford is scheduled to take place on 12 September and will consider education and immigration policies, and how these impact the advertising industry.
Committee chairman Lord Henley said: “Advertising in the UK is a major contributor to economic growth and its services are now amongst the UK’s biggest exports. According to one industry body, the industry generates a total of £120bn in economic activity in the UK and supports 1m jobs.
"However, the industry also faces major changes as advertisers switch from the traditional media of television, radio and print to digital—which now generates more advertising revenue in the UK than all other media.
“With such a significant contribution to the UK’s economy, the committee will examine how this industry can evolve and adapt to a changing market, and what role there is, if any, for the Government to help. The committee will also explore ways the advertising industry can maintain access to a global talent pool and nurture the skills of those already in the UK.”
Written evidence will be submitted until Friday 20 October and will be accepted online.