John Penrose MP, Minister for Tourism, will attend the opening day of International Confex and the International Outdoor Events Exhibition (IOEX) following the collective efforts of the Britain for Events campaign, International Confex, the All Party Parliamentary Group and Visit England.
The Minister will attend a networking event before touring the exhibition to gain further insight into the UK events industry. His attendance follows work done by the industry to gain government support for UK events and the Minister’s growing interest in the sector and what it can achieve for the growth of UK tourism.
Talking on behalf of the Britain for Events campaign, Michael Hirst, Chair of the Business Visits & Events Partnership commented, “This is a really significant endorsement of the UK events industry and a sign of its growth on the government agenda.”
“As the UK’s premier events exhibition, the lack of senior government attendance in the past has been disappointing, so it’s great news that John Penrose has given up his valuable time to attend,” Hirst concludes.
“This is a tremendous endorsement of the show and we’re delighted to welcome the Minster to Confex this year,” comments Jonny Sullens, Portfolio Director, Confex Group. “There is no better place for government to witness the professionalism, creativity and all round quality of the UK events industry.”
International Confex will take place 6-8th March 2012 with John Penrose MP scheduled to attend on the afternoon of the 6th March.