When MPs Turned Their Attention To Neon Signs
The Commons is rarely a forum for craft. Tax and real neon signs trade dominate the agenda. On a spring evening this year, MPs were talking about light. Ms Qureshi, brought heritage into the chamber. Her message was direct: authentic neon is cultural heritage. She warned against plastic imitations, saying they undermine public trust. If it is not glass and gas, it is not neon. Chris McDonald, MP for Stockton North, positioning neon as regional creativity.
The benches responded warmly. Data told the story. Only 27 full-time neon benders remain in Britain. No new entrants are learning. Without action, a century-old craft may die. Qureshi proposed legal recognition, modelled on Champagne. Preserve authenticity. From Strangford, Jim Shannon rose, pointing to industry growth. Forecasts predict $3.3bn market by 2031. His point: authentic craft has future potential. Closing remarks came from Chris Bryant, Minister for Creative Industries.
He allowed himself puns, lightening the mood. Yet beneath the levity, he acknowledged the case. He listed Britain’s neon landmarks: Walthamstow Stadium’s listed sign. He emphasised longevity. Why the debate? The issue is clarity. Consumers are misled. That erodes trust. A question of honest labelling. If Champagne must be French, then signage should tell the truth. This was about identity. Do we allow heritage skills to disappear? We hold no doubt: authentic glow endures.
The Commons was illuminated. The Act is still to come. But the campaign is alive. If Westminster can defend glow, so can we all. Skip LED pretenders. Support artisans.
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