British Government lobbying trade org UK Music has appointed former Shadow Culture Secretary Tom Watson as Chair. He succeeds Andy Heath CBE and will start in April.

After almost two decades as an MP, including roles as Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and a Government Minister in two departments, Watson stood down from Parliament at the General Election in December 2019.

In his new role, Watson said his top priority would be fighting to secure maximum support for the music industry to combat the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and help return the sector to growth as soon as possible.

“UK Music speaks with a powerful voice for the whole of the U.K. commercial music sector,” he said. “And at the heart of the sector are the songwriters and musicians, many thousands of whom stand ready to serve in the national effort against the coronavirus.

“The cancellation of live music events has devastated the sector. Thousands of jobs are now in peril and threaten the long-term bottom line of the U.K. economy. Our urgent task is to work with our colleagues and partners in Government to support the national effort to defeat coronavirus, whilst protecting the jewel in the crown of British culture—commercial music."

Once the pandemic passes, Watson said, "UK Music has an important part to play in Britain’s developing new role in the world. We believe we can be the Prime Minister's calling card to every country on the planet."

He concluded: “There will be much to say about this in the months ahead but first, let’s deal with this crisis. I will be seeking urgent talks with ministers and officials to ensure that we support the music-makers of Britain and the industry that always sustains us through the good times and the bad.”

In welcoming the appointment, Heath said of Watson, “I’m sure he will continue to be a fantastic advocate for the music industry and fight for its future at what is an immensely difficult time.

“Tom is one of the great political leaders of his generation and I know he will take UK Music from strength to strength and help continue to grow our fantastic industry. No one should underestimate his passion for and knowledge of both the music that has been created in the UK and the industry that has served it."

UK Music Acting CEO Tom Kiehl remains in his role during the recruitment process for a new CEO.