Media industry gives Burnham a cautious welcome

Purnell, who took over from Tessa Jowell, lasted just six months in his job before work and pensions secretary Peter Hain’s resignation yesterday forced a Cabinet reshuffle.

Hamish Pringle, director general of the IPA, said: “We are naturally disappointed that James has left so soon in that we had established a good working relationship with him and we welcomed his interest in, and support for, the advertising industry. We applaud the Government's plans to tackle obesity and are looking for continuity in delivering their proposed behavioural change programme.

“That said, this appointment augurs well, given Andy's previous experience at the DCMS and his familiarity with the issues. We're particularly happy to have closer links with someone who has experience of the Treasury, given our President's agenda to demonstrate value in the boardroom and the City.”

Paul Brown, chairman of the RadioCentre, said of Burnham: “He is firm but also open to new ideas, and very in-tune with popular culture. He has always given us a fair hearing. James was absolutely on the ball, he did a very good job, but there’s no reason why Andy can’t pick up where James left off. In radio, we’re glad to see him.”

Nick Bampton, managing director of Viacom Brand Solutions, said: “The use of TV advertising as a force for good is something we've been openly passionate about at VBS, so we welcome the Government's recent statements regarding its approach towards partnering the creative industries to create change on social issues. We hope the new culture minister will further this strategy for the positive benefit of all.”

This article was first published on Media Week