There is only one mention of the creative industries in the Red Book accompanying this week’s Budget.
Only one, for an industry which generates £70,000 a minute for the UK economy.
Only one, for an industry which employs 1.5 million people.
Only one, for an industry which accounts for 10% of UK exports.
Only one.
Here it is:
1.141 In addition, the Government is providing further support for the creative industries. The UK represents a global centre of excellence in digital media production, including visual effects. To further support this high-tech and export-oriented sector, build capacity and support growth:• the Technology Strategy Board will design and launch a new competition of up to £15 million inviting consortia bids to support digital content production through partnerships with industry, including specialist SMEs, educational research facilities and training providers;• funding for the Skills Investment Fund will be increased to £8 million each year over the next two years, with Government match-funding voluntary industry contributions to support skills development in the UK digital content sectors; and• the Government will launch a public consultation on options to provide further support for the visual effects industry through the tax system.
That’s your lot, in a 122-page document.
Yet the Department for culture, media and sport says: “With the right support, they [creative industries] have the potential to bring even more benefits to our culture and economy.”
It seems that one part of the government is not talking to another.