Work permit issue could see fewer musicians touring Europe
APPARENTLY, the UK Government has turned down a proposal to exempt performers and musicians from the cost and, just as important, the burden of obtaining work permits to the European Union.
The general secretary of the Musicians Union Horace Trubridge finds it to be a “nigh-on unbelievable decision”.
He said: “With the British music business having been devastated by Covid-19 and with no end in sight to the black hole of cancelled concerts, tours, festivals and regular gigs that is the very bedrock of our world-class industry.
“The news, if true, that our own elected representatives chose to turn down such an offer is nigh-on unbelievable”.
Freedom of economic movement was vital to an industry worth nearly £6 million to the UK economy and Horace Trubridge is demanding that the Culture Minister should explain why this decision has been made.
Angela Rayner, Deputy Leader Labour Party, has called the situation “an utterly stupid decision and a hammer blow to our musicians, performing artists and the whole music industry”.
In addition, Horace Trubridge is highlighting the need for financial support for live performers and those freelance musicians who have received no financial help during these periods of lockdown. The Musicians’ Union is asking the UK Government to back an ‘adminlight’ Musicians Passport that would allow free or cheap movement throughour the EU for a period of two years – getting rid of the need for permit, etc, and which would cover road crews, technicians and other support staff.
Horace Trubridge said: “Music and the performing arts rely on the exghange of ideas and interaction between the performers of different nationalities.
“We love working in the EU and we love artists coming over here.
“If musicians can’t travel easily both ways, our reputation as a country that embrases all arts and culture will be severely damaged.
“Our members’ ability to earn a living will also be severely affected.” A petition to force a debate in Parliament on the subject has almost reached 250,000 signatures.
Kevin Brennan, the Labour MP for Cardiff West has asked the Prime Minister, on behalf of the Musicians Union, if there would be a meeting for senior MPs to discuss an agreement with the EU for touring musicians.
The Prime Minister agreed to the meeting, assuring that he understands how the issue is “extremely important,” and that he knows “our friends in the EU will be wanting to go further to improve things.”