On the day that Brass Bands England hosts its conference in Manchester to formulate a basis of a five year strategic action plan for banding in England, it has been revealed that the activities of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Brass Bands has been suspended.

Curtailed

Following a successful year in which the All-Party Group had engaged in meetings with Bob Shennan, the BBC's Director of Music and Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, the activity of the group was initially curtailed during the period of the General Election campaign, closely followed by the European Referendum campaign.

However, 4BR has been informed that Jason McCartney MP has had to resign as Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group, given the pressure of the Parliamentary programme following the referendum and the need to concentrate on important issues within his constituency.

This means that the group is currently in abeyance pending the election of a new chairman.

Link continues

4BR understands that Roy Terry, who has been the essential formal secretariat link to the All Party Group has been asked by Jason McCartney MP to carry on in the important role on the basis that he will consult on the widest possible basis. The aim is to endeavour to ensure that the interests and concerns of the whole brass band community inform the work of the group.

It is understood that a further statement will be publicised once the All Party Group has held an Annual General Meeting to elect its new group of officers4BR

New elections

It is understood that a further statement will be publicised once the All Party Group has held an Annual General Meeting to elect its new group of officers, whilst Roy Terry will be available to take forward any input as to new developments as well as areas of concern which might provide the focus for future meetings.

Contact

Roy Terry can be contacted on: royterrymusic@gmail.com