I was delighted to lead a Parliamentary debate on the immense contribution of the UK’s music industry to both the economy and society.

The British music industry is worth a staggering £5 billion to the national economy, employing nearly 200,000 people. It’s a story of success that contributes something of real value to every town and city across Britain.

Merseyside, of course, is synonymous with world-leading British music, and I paid tribute to our region’s great variety of diverse performers, venues, festivals and local studios, each of which helps to fuel the kind of talent that makes UK music the envy of the world. It was also nice to be able to read about local artists, venues, organisations, bands and choirs in Hansard – the official House of Commons report.

But big challenges remain, which is why Ministers must do more to acknowledge the life-changing impact music has on our communities, all the while helping those already working in the industry to flourish.