Along with a new Parliamentary session comes renewed optimism. The Labour Party has won an historic third term, albeit with a reduced majority, and now the Government is looking to further develop its, already strong, relationship with the music industry.

Whilst responsibility for 'music' continues to reside within the Department for Culture, Media and Sport there has been a new division of responsibilities. Coming in as Minister for the Creative Industries is James Purnell MP, who has taken over a revamped DCMS Ministerial portfolio. This is Purnell's first Ministerial post and his background as a media industry policy advisor in Number 10 will be particularly useful in the role. Working alongside him will be David Lammy MP - the new Culture Minister who has responsibility for the Music Manifesto and Arts Education. A talented young lawyer, Lammy has a passion for music, as indicated by the fact he previously encouraged R&B star Alicia Keys, to perform at the House of Commons.

In terms of future policy commitments, the Labour Party Business Manifesto has promised to modernise the copyright and intellectual property regimes so that in the digital age the creators and entrepreneurs can invest in ideas and future talent knowing that they will be justly rewarded for their investment. Furthermore, the Government is also committed to promoting creativity and innovation and tackling intellectual property theft.

With these policy commitments in place and a fresh direction from new Ministers, we hope that music will be given the serious consideration it needs as we move into the future.