All Party Writers Group Elects New Chair

LONDON, July 8, 2010 - The All Party Writers Group (APWG) is pleased to announce that John
Whittingdale MP has been elected as the new Chair of the Group.

The MP for Maldon has taken a keen interest in copyright protection, and
supported the Digital Economy Act as it progressed through Parliament because
"We need to send a signal that we take the issue of piracy seriously". More
recently Whittingdale was re-elected as Chairman of the House of Commons
Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, a position he has held since 2005.

On his successful election to Chair of the All Party Writers Group he
stated: "The creative industries form a hugely significant part of the UK
economy and will have a major role to play in our efforts to establish a more
financially stable future. These industries are built around the talent and
hard work of creative individuals and I am therefore delighted to be involved
with this group at such an important time for creators".

To support John Whittingdale in his role Denis MacShane MP remains on the
Group as Vice Chair and award winning author, Baroness Ruth Rendell, has
taken over the role of Secretary from the new Minister for Culture, Ed
Vaizey. Jim Dowd MP takes on the role of Treasurer.

All Party Writers Group Fringe Events at the Party Conferences

Among the new MPs elected to Parliament who have joined the APWG is
novelist Louise Bagshawe, MP for Corby and East Northants. We're pleased to
announce that Louise will be joining us at the Conservative Party Fringe
conference this year on 3rd October 2010 in Birmingham as a panelist on our
'What is the future of the book?' debate.

The line up for debate, to be chaired by John Whittingdale MP, also
includes Ed Vaizey, Minister for Culture; publisher Richard Charkin and
Google's Sarah Hunter.

ALCS will be holding a similar event at this autumn's Labour party
conference on 29th September. APWG Vice Chair Denis MacShane will host the
Labour debate, alongside author Stella Duffy; Ben Bradshaw MP; publisher Gail
Rebuck and Sarah Hunter.

About All Party Groups

All Party Groups provide an opportunity for Members of Parliament to help
keep the Government and Opposition informed of opinion both inside and
outside Parliament on policy issues.

    Notes for Editors
    APWG contact information
    ALCS, The Writers' House,
    13 Haydon Street, London EC3N 1DB
    Tel: +44(0)20-7264-5700;
    Website:www.allpartywritersgroup.co.uk

Media Contact: ALCS, Alison Baxter: +44(0)20-7264-5700; Barbara Hayles, email: Barbara.hayes at alcs.co.uk