Monmouth MP David Davies attended the British Toy and Hobby’s Association’s (BTHA) ‘giving the gift of play’ parliamentary reception to show support for the thriving British toy industry.
Further, in collaboration with the BTHA, Mr Davies donated a selection of toys to Women’s Aid Monmouthshire, giving the gift of play for local children at Christmas.
As the official organisation representing manufacturers for Britain’s £4.2bn toy industry, the BTHA event brought together member businesses based across the UK, 35 MPs and peers and wider industry stakeholders to celebrate the growth of the sector and the important contribution of quality, safe toys to the fabric of our UK society.
The toy industry employs 51,000 people and contributes £1bn to the economy.
Mr Davies said: “I was absolutely delighted to join the BTHA in Parliament and give the gift of play to Women’s Aid for Christmas.
“I know first-hand of the vital work Women’s Aid do throughout Monmouthshire and I was keen to support them and the children they help to protect from domestic abuse.
“I would like to thank the BTHA for their generosity during the festive season, which I appreciate can be a difficult time of year for many people.”
Natasha Crookes, BTHA director of public affairs and communications, added: “The BTHA has worked tirelessly to ensure the UK has the highest standards of safety regulations and enforcement in the world, and child safety is at the heart of what we stand for.
“We were delighted 35 MPs and peers supported us to give the gift of play this Christmas and we are grateful to the support they have shown us in raising our profile in Parliament during this unique political period”.
In addition to the central theme of ‘giving the gift of play’ and the contribution of BTHA members, the event also covered the work of the BTHA’s dedicated charity, the Toy Trust.
The trust exists to raise money to help disadvantaged and disabled children within the UK and abroad, ensuring children have access to toys and the gift of play. Furthermore, the event also celebrated the ‘Make Time 2 Play’ campaign.