Few times in history have we heard the words neon sign echo inside the oak-panelled Commons. Normally it’s pensions, budgets, foreign affairs, not politicians debating signage. But on a unexpected Commons session, Britain’s lawmakers did just that. the formidable Ms Qureshi stood tall to back neon craftsmen. Her argument was simple: gas-filled glass is culture, and cheap LED impostors are strangling it. She reminded the chamber: £30 LED strips don’t deserve the name neon.

Chris McDonald, real neon signs online MP for Stockton North telling MPs about neon art in Teesside. Even the sceptics were glowing. The stats sealed the case. Only 27 full-time neon benders remain in the UK. No apprentices are being trained. Qureshi called for a Neon Protection Act. Even DUP MP Jim Shannon weighed in. He highlighted forecasts, saying the industry has serious value. His point was blunt: heritage can earn money. Closing was Chris Bryant, Minister for Creative Industries.

He cracked puns, getting teased by Madam Deputy Speaker. But the government was listening. He listed neon’s legacy: the riot of God’s Own Junkyard. He said neon’s eco record is unfairly maligned. What’s the fight? Because consumers are duped daily. That kills the craft. Think Cornish pasties. If tweed is legally defined, signs should be no different. The night was more than politics. Do we want every wall to glow with the same plastic sameness?

We’re biased but right: plastic impostors don’t cut it. So yes, Westminster literally debated neon. It’s still early days, but the case has been made. If they can debate glow in Westminster, you can light up your bar. Skip the fakes. Support the craft.

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