The Musicians’ Union (MU) is delighted that the House of Lords’ European Union Home Affairs Sub-Committee is calling for clarity on free movement post-Brexit in the cultural sector.
In a report on the movement of people in the culture sector post-Brexit, the Committee emphasises the “profoundly important contribution” the culture sector makes to the UK’s society, economy and international influence.
The Committee highlights the lack of concrete proposals on free movement, and calls on the Government to:
- Explore a permitted paid engagement scheme with the EU
- Explore permit-free festival arrangements with the EU
- Seek a reciprocal multi-country, multi-entry short-term visa arrangement with the EU
MU General Secretary Horace Trubridge says:
“The MU is extremely pleased that the House of Lords’ European Union Committee has highlighted the urgent need for clarity on free movement post-Brexit in the cultural sector. Without clarity, the business of touring could be irrevocably damaged.
“Musicians rely on being able to work and tour in Europe freely, easily and often with very little notice and it is equally important that the other people vital to touring such as roadies and technical staff are able to travel on the same basis.
“It is also vital that instruments and equipment can be moved about easily, and we very much want this to be a reciprocal arrangement. We’ve always been – artistically and culturally – a very welcoming country. We love artists coming over here. If we become less welcoming, they simply won’t come. Our reputation as a country that embraces all arts and culture will be severely damaged.”
The report follows a Committee inquiry into ‘Brexit: movement of people in the fields of sport and culture’. The MU made a written submission to the inquiry, and MU General Secretary Horace Trubridge appeared before the Committee to give evidence in person.
Read the full report