Ian will begin a series of placements learning about the UK’s cultural and creative industries this week as part of the Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) Fellowship programme.•The unique programme is designed to promote better understanding between industry and Parliament.

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Ian will visit a range of organisations across the UK to develop a better understanding of the national significance of the cultural and creative industry and its impact on the UK economy. The IPT Fellowship offers a mutual, non-political and non-lobbying platform for both parties to gain a better understanding of the drivers for both industry and Parliament. Fellowships investigate all aspects of business, from shop-floor to board room offering the opportunity to see first-hand the impact of Government legislation.

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The Fellowship will begin with placements closer to home as Ian spends some time with Creative Scotland in Edinburgh, where he will see first-hand their investment in the arts and how it benefits the people of Scotland. The programme incorporates some further regional placements with visits to Realise Digital Design and WASPS Studios. Ian will then cross the border visiting organisations such as PACT, ITV and the Royal Opera House as he explores the performing arts, broadcasting and production, and the wider media and creative industries across the UK.

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Andrew Dixon, CEO, Creative Scotland•said, “Creative Scotland is pleased to host Ian so that he can see at first hand the energy and new thinking that Creative Scotland is delivering to promote Scotland’s cultural strengths. Ian will see at first hand our work across the creative industries and festivals.”

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Ian•said,•“Across the UK our cultural and creative industries are varied and thriving -; whether it’s film making, theatre production or the design and manufacture of computer games. And as a member of the shadow Culture team, I recognise the importance of this sector.

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“I think it is incredibly important that we understand the impact the cultural and creative sector has on the UK economy and the job opportunities it offers. And that’s why I’m pleased to have access to these placements, as part of the Industry and Parliament Trust’s Fellowship programme.

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“I hope these visits will enable me to explore the range of issues that impact on our cultural and creative industries. And I am particularly interested in looking at the training and apprenticeships opportunities that the sector could offer to our young people.

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“Edinburgh is the cultural capital of the world and I’m keen to ensure we have the best foundations to continue to build on our wonderful city’s reputation.”

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The Fellowship programme for Ian will include 18 days of placements over the next two years and is an excellent example of how parliamentarians and industry can work together to help improve scrutiny of Government legislation.