The Cultural Case For Neon

Parliament is not usually the stage for design debates. Budgets, healthcare, international relations. One late night in Westminster, the glow of signage took centre stage. Labour’s Yasmin Qureshi, stood with conviction. Her message was uncompromising: real neon is both craft and culture. She contrasted it with cheap LED substitutes, saying they undermine public trust. Marketing should not blur the definition. Another Labour voice joined, sharing his own commissioning of neon art in Teesside.

There was broad recognition. Statistics gave weight to the passion. The UK now counts fewer than thirty artisans. No apprentices follow. Without action, a century-old craft may die. Ideas were floated for a protection act, modelled on Champagne. Defend the craft. Support also came from Jim Shannon, DUP, pointing to industry growth. Reports show 7.5% annual growth. His point: heritage and commerce can co-exist.

Closing remarks came from Chris Bryant, Minister for Creative Industries. He teased the chamber with jokes, lightening the mood. Yet beneath the levity, he acknowledged the case. He cited neon’s cultural impact: Tracey Emin’s installations. He emphasised longevity. What is at stake? The risk is confusion. LED products are marketed as neon. That diminishes value. A question of honest labelling. If Scotch must come from Scotland, then signage should tell the truth.

This was about identity. Do we trade individuality for convenience? Our position is clear: glass and gas still matter. The Commons was illuminated. No law has passed yet. But the case is stronger than ever. If Westminster can defend glow, so can we all. Skip LED pretenders. Choose neon.


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