Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Neon Signage 2025-05-06

06 May 2025 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Yasmin Qureshi Lab Bolton South and Walkden

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Yasmin Qureshi raised concerns about neon signage 2025-05-06 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Ms Qureshi raised concerns about the threat to traditional neon sign making due to misleading marketing by LED imitations.
  • The MP noted the cultural and historical significance of neon signs, emphasizing their sustainability and artisanal craftsmanship.
  • Minister Chris Bryant acknowledged the importance of preserving cultural heritage and supporting traditional industries.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Yasmin Qureshi Lab Bolton South and Walkden

Ms Qureshi spoke about the importance of protecting neon sign making as a British heritage craft, noting its discovery in the UK in 1898. She highlighted the current threat to this craft due to misleading marketing by mass-produced LED imitation products labeled as 'neon'. The MP visited Neon Creations studio in her constituency and witnessed the meticulous process of creating authentic neon signs using glass tubes filled with inert gases, which requires years of training and dexterity. There are only 27 full-time neon glass benders left in the UK, making it an endangered craft that needs legal protection through a certification mark or a British standard. She also emphasised the cultural value of neon signs as art and their sustainability compared to LED alternatives.

Other contributors (3)
  • Chris McDonald Lab Stockton North

    Supports Ms Qureshi's argument about the validity of neon as an artistic medium.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Points out that market data predicts a growth in the neon sign market, suggesting opportunities for collaboration between authentic and mass-produced products.

  • Yasmin Qureshi Lab Bolton South and Walkden

    She ended her speech by saying, 'Let us light the way for the future of British neon'.

Government Response

Chris Bryant

Minister Chris Bryant responded to the debate on protecting neon sign making as a British heritage craft. He acknowledged the importance of preserving cultural heritage and supporting traditional industries while ensuring consumer awareness about product authenticity. The minister highlighted the government's commitment to promoting creative industries through various initiatives, such as funding for skills development and market growth. However, specific measures regarding legal protection or certification for authentic neon signs were not announced. The Government acknowledge the importance of neon signage in preserving cultural heritage and supporting livelihoods. The Department encourages submissions to living heritage inventories, provides guidance for protecting unique aspects of historic environments, including street furniture and signage. Concerns about consumer transparency were addressed, noting that clarity on definitions could prevent confusion regarding handcrafted neon signs versus LED alternatives. The Government are committed to working with industry stakeholders to explore ways to secure the future of neon as an essential form of creative expression.

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