Samantha Niblett MP, CRAFT political patron, announces CRAFT in the House of COMMONS
Parliament recognises comedy as an artform — and supports CRAFT
In the House of Commons, Samantha Niblett MP of South Derbyshire raised the importance of comedy as a core part of British society, directing her Business Question to the Leader of the House of Commons, The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Campbell MP.
Samantha highlighted her support as a patron of CRAFT (Comedy Representation & Artform Trust), a newly established national body created to give the comedy industry the formal recognition it deserves, alongside fair funding and stronger government and industry support.
Her remarks reflected the full breadth of the comedy ecosystem—from national treasures and emerging talent to grassroots voices within local communities. Samantha referenced Steve Cook from South Derbyshire, whose local humour and “Swadhenge” creation demonstrate how comedy shapes identity and connection at a community level.
She asked a clear question to the House: Is comedy an artform, not just a genre?
The moment signals growing parliamentary recognition of comedy’s cultural and economic value—and the need for national infrastructure to support it.
CRAFT extends its thanks to its patrons and supporters in Parliament—Samantha Niblett MP, Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, and Dr Simon Opher MP—for championing comedy across the UK.
CRAFT, the Comedy Representation and Artform Trust, is the national body for UK Comedy and is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO in formation). We are focused on Five Pillar areas for the comedy industry. The above article relates to Pillar 4: Public Affairs, Policy, & Representation, where we ensure comedy is recognised as a standalone artform across all formats (live, broadcast, recorded, digital/hybrid, writing and visual/illustrative formats), so policy decisions and funding reflect its true role and value; widen who gets to participate and progress; and protect lawful satire and social commentary.
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