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King’s Speech

My Lords, I will speak about the vital importance of creativity and imagination, the twin engines of our world-leading creative industries, and of books in particular. I declare my interests as a former publishing CEO and book charity founder.

Research conclusively shows that reading for pleasure fires the imagination, builds empathy and is the single greatest predictor of academic success, life outcomes and well-being, regardless of social background. Books are also a major economic force, driving exports and inspiring global film franchises, TV series and plays. It is therefore alarming that, according to the last yearly survey, only one in three—32%—of eight to 18 year-olds chooses to read for pleasure. That is the lowest figure on record. Less than 50% of adults read a book a year, and too many parents no longer read to their pre-schoolers: 50% of five year-olds have never been read to. This is despite powerful evidence that, when adults read to babies, their breathing, heartbeat and brain rhythm synchronise in the most magical way.

The problem runs deeper. The Financial Times reported that human beings may have reached peak cognitive powers in 2022, and we have been in decline ever since.