Musicians touring threat after Brexit

MUSICIANS should be protected when touring and trading under any Brexit deal, according to Argyll MP Brendan O’Hara.

Mr O’Hara, the newlyappointed spokesperson for the SNP on culture, media and sport, gave his support to the creative industries at an event in Westminster aimed at highlighting the potential risks of Brexit.

He said: ‘It is vital the UK government gets the best possible deal for the sector – the ability to tour and trade easily with the UK’s largest export market and to attract talent, EU arts funding, workers’ rights and the rights of EU citizens in the UK. Musicians are rightly concerned that the Brexit process may lead to the introduction of work permits and visas for British musicians touring and working across Europe, which would be problematic if you are working in several different European countries over the course of a few days.

‘I have no hesitation in giving my support to professional musicians and performers in Argyll and Bute and will urge the UK government to ensure they can continue to travel easily across Europe post-Brexit for touring and performing with minimum burdens placed upon them.’

Horace Trubridge, Musicians’ Union general secretary, said: ‘British musicians have long enjoyed easy access to touring in Europe, as UK venues and festivals have benefited from easy access to European performers.

‘We know from touring in the US and elsewhere, that visas and other restrictions impose significant costs and administration and occasionally considerable financial loss when visas aren’t processed in time.

‘We are calling on MPs and the government to help secure a deal that will ensure ease of movement for touring and performing post-Brexit.’