Max SteventonWith Andy Burnham’s victory in the Makerfield byelection expected to result in a Labour Party leadership challenge, the former Manchester major has been called on to support the events and nighttime industries.
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) said Burnham’s win provides an opportunity for him to raise issues affecting hospitality, nightlife and related sectors at a national level. Burnham attended the organisation’s summit earlier this year, where business owners, operators and workers discussed challenges facing the sector and called for greater government support.
Burnham has served as the Mayor of Manchester since 2017, where Parklife festival co-founder Sacha Lord acted as his night time economy adviser until January 2025. NTIA said Burnham had previously demonstrated a willingness to challenge government policy and urged him to support measures designed to assist businesses and communities linked to the night-time economy.
Among the measures highlighted by NTIA were the appointment of a dedicated night time economy minister and a reduction in VAT for hospitality businesses and the wider night-time economy. It said businesses in the sector continue to face financial pressures, with venue closures, job losses and reduced business confidence affecting operators across the country.
The suggested that while the night-time economy plays a significant role in employment, cultural activity and local economies, it remains underrepresented in government policy discussions.
NTIA CEO Michael Kill said, “Andy Burnham has never been afraid to challenge the status quo. We now call on him to champion the night-time economy, the wider economy and the communities that depend upon it, ensuring that promises are translated into meaningful policy and action.”