Last week, Manchester Withington MP Jeff Smith chaired an expert panel on the future of the creative industries in the North.

Bringing together experts from TV, film and other media, the panel discussed the major challenges lying ahead for the creative sector.  Panellists discussed how Brexit, digitalisation and new international market competitors are issues for the sector and how start-ups and SMEs in the North can attract investment.

Commenting following the event Jeff said: “As a former DJ and events producer in Manchester, I know the creative potential of our city and the value of a vibrant creative sector to our economy and our society.

There are over 8,000 digital and creative businesses in Greater Manchester, generating £2bn in economic output and supporting more than 45,000 jobs.

We’re in a great position to build on the rich cultural history of our city, but we must ensure creative businesses have access to the finance, training infrastructure and talent they need to grow.”