MPs launch inquiry into Covid-19 impact on night-time economy
Led by group chair Jeff Smith MP, who worked in the sector for several years in his earlier career as a DJ and events manager, the APPG is calling for evidence from night-time economy businesses, employees, freelancers and consumers to share their views on the challenges facing the sector; its importance to our society and economy; and how nightlife can be reopened.
Consultations will run throughout the month of January for a report scheduled to be released in February.
The group will also be contacting several night-time economy organisations and representatives from the Government and local authorities to provide written testimony.
“As we move now into a third national lockdown, there has never been a more important time for Government to address the urgent needs of night-time economy businesses, their supply chains and those that rely on them for employment," says Smith.
Despite playing such a vital role in our local communities and UK economy, nightlife businesses have been repeatedly overlooked by the Government, and we are determined to ensure that the specific challenges facing the sector are addressed.
"This inquiry will be a vital first step in our work.”
The night-time economy has faced debilitating constraints on operating since the onset of the pandemic in March last year, with nightclubs being forced to remain closed since the first lockdown came into force.
“Since March, we have seen the night-time sector berated, scapegoated and even blamed for rising infections," says Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA).
"Our sector has slipped through the cracks of insufficient support packages and borne the brunt of ever-changing and inconsistent restrictions.
"We urge all those who work in the night-time economy, or simply enjoy a night out, to take part in the APPG survey to help policymakers understand the importance of our vital sector.”
Evidence for the inquiry can be submitted via an online survey on the NTIA website.
To access the survey and submit evidence, click here.
