UK Music: Miller’s Crossing

Trade umbrella group UK Music has written to new Culture Secretary Maria Miller inviting the MP to an away day event in October and reiterating: "Our future success depends on Government establishing a regulatory framework that allows us to expand and grow, both in old and new markets."

A short statement, which can be read on the organisation’s website says: "UK Music welcomes Maria Miller MP as new Culture Secretary and looks forward to working with her on the full and exciting agenda of the music industry."

Miller, who has a background in PR and advertising with no direct experience in dealing with the music industry, was announced as the new Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport last week. David Cameron outlined a major reshuffle that many saw as a kind of hokey cokey in which you “Put your right wing in, your left wing out”. Miller is also taking on responsibilities as Minister for Women and Equalities, dividing her time between the two.

Currently shaking it all about is former Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt, who was promoted to Secretary of State for Health. Of course, we can only speculate but its worth a bet that his favourite tune is ‘Don’t stop believing’.

Generate debate: Music Week is running a poll here which asks the question ‘Is Maria Miller the right person for Culture Secretary?’.

The Gen would argue that it's currently impossible to tell and isn’t necessarily a ‘downgrade’- it's often the case in all forms of business that an ‘outsider’ can bring a fresh approach, with new ways of effectively engaging with and understanding an industry. Perhaps we’ll find out more about what Miller’s approach is likely to be should she accept the not quite Corleone style invitation from UK Music in October.