BPF Parliamentary Reception 2026

The British Plastics Federation Hosts Highly Successful 2026 Parliamentary Reception

Over 150 industry leaders, parliamentarians and officials gather at the House of Commons to discuss the future of the UK plastics industry. On Tuesday, 10th March 2026, the British Plastics Federation (BPF) hosted its annual Parliamentary Reception. Held in the prestigious Terrace Pavilion room at the House of Commons, the event served as a vital forum for connecting the UK plastics supply chain with key policymakers and political figures.

Hosted by Andy MacNae MP (Rossendale and Darwen), this year’s reception was a resounding success, welcoming over 150 attendees from across the industry. Underscoring the strategic and economic importance of the plastics sector, the event also saw an exceptional political turnout. A total of 24 Members of Parliament, Peers, and parliamentary researchers were present, taking the opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders on the most pressing issues facing the sector today. In addition, there was an excellent turnout of officials too.

Andy MacNae MP opened the speeches by highlighting the size of the industry and the critical role it plays in our lives:

“The Plastic Industry is made up of innovative and creative companies that form the backbone of our local employment base. I think the industry employs something like 145,000 people nationally. 5,550 different companies. I think on average that's something like 26 employees, per business. This is an industry of every size and shape.”

Following the opening speech, BPF Director-General Philip Law took the floor to deliver a powerful and commanding speech. Reinforcing the foundational importance of the plastics sector to the UK economy, noting its critical role in virtually every modern supply chain. He used the platform to passionately advocate for BPF members, highlighting the industry's continued strides toward a circular economy and calling for supportive legislative frameworks and continued investment in the UK's recycling infrastructure.

“At a time when considerations of security of supply and national defence are to the fore, just as a reminder of our adaptability as an industry, the plastics industry underpins our defensive capabilities. Yet, this innovative sector, this dynamic sector, needs government support. Not only to survive, but also to grow. So, we're here today to ask the government for three simple things.”

The three key policy asks for the UK Plastics Industry are:

1. Recognition as a Manufacturing Foundational Industry
2. Stabilise and Grow the UK Recycling Infrastructure
3. Support UK Plastics Manufacturers to Compete Globally

In his response speech, the Minister for Industry, Chris McDonald MP then took to the floor and delivered the keynote address. In his speech, Minister McDonald highlighted the vital role that the manufacturing sector plays within the UK’s broader economic landscape. He emphasised the importance of the ongoing partnership between government and industry to drive innovation, enhance sustainability, and secure long-term industrial growth.

“I absolutely understand the importance of the plastics industry. What it means not only for the economy, really powering the economy, but also for people who work in the industry, for local communities as well. The achievements of the industry aren't just domestic. This is an important exporting industry. Exporting £8.5 billion worth of products. And always firmly in the top 10 list of exports from the country.

I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to your work in the fields of recycling and sustainability. It represents an important growth opportunity not only for your industry but for our country. The British Plastics Federation is unique in its reach from raw materials through products to recycling as well and I would like to thank them and their members for the engagement that you've shown with government on a number of topics.”

The 2026 Parliamentary Reception fostered invaluable dialogue between the plastics sector and Westminster. The BPF would like to thank all the attendees, speakers, and parliamentary representatives who made the afternoon a success. The Federation remains deeply committed to representing the interests of its members and will continue to work collaboratively with policymakers to ensure a resilient, innovative, and globally competitive future for the UK plastics industry.

To read the full BPF Key Policy Requests 2026  Document, Click Here

To read the BPFs Position Statements, Click Here