skip to main content

Frustration as Pubs Reopen with No Live Entertainment, a Lobbying Update

Our Head of Communications & Government Relations Isabelle Gutierrez discusses the actions the MU are taking to lobby government and make sure that no musician is left behind.

Published: 30 June 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
downing street entrance
We’re calling for live music events to be allowed with social distancing applied, and for the shortfall in ticket money to be underwritten by the Government. Photo: Shutterstock

It goes without saying that we are deeply upset and frustrated about the latest government advice which states that pubs can reopen but with no live entertainment. We will be lobbying government to relax the restrictions as soon as possible. 

Our General Secretary Horace Trubridge is in daily contact with ministers and feeding into guidance for safe reopening.

Key asks for government

One of our key asks for government at this stage is that live music events be allowed with social distancing applied, and that the shortfall in ticket money is underwritten by the Government to enable the event to break even. Thereby ensuring no loss of employment, venues, theatres, concert halls etc.

We’re also calling for a sector specific financial support package for musicians and crew who have lost income due to the ongoing closures and until the above is implemented. The gaps in the SEISS still need to be addressed, and there was a government inquiry into this issue which highlighted all the problems we have identified.

Other key asks include:

  • Close the gaps in SEISS
  • Extend support for arts, culture and entertainment workers after October
  • Support safe ways of working like live music events with social distancing applied 
  • Cover shortfalls in ticket money due to social distancing so that theatres and venues survive 
  • Introduce a cultural fund based on the German model
  • Undertake a government review of streaming royalty distribution

Meetings with MPs and committees 

Horace has been appointed to a number of DCMS committees that are feeding directly into Ministers. These are:

  • Entertainment and Events
  • Broadcasting Film and Production
  • Orchestral
  • Choral
  • Studio Consultative Group

We have had meetings with MPs such as Kevin Brennan, Thangam Debbonaire , Alison McGovern and Annaliese Dodds who are all raising issues on our behalf in parliament.

With Brexit now less than 6 months away, we are also ramping up our efforts to convince the Government that adequate provisions must be made for musicians so that they can continue to tour freely and easily in the EU.

Take action for musicians

Read about how you can support our calls to government, including letter templates to help you write to The Chancellor and your MP.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Close up of a flute on a music sheet.

Tribute to Elmer Cole

Elmer Cole was a highly accomplished flautist. He was also a member of the English National Opera for over 40 years and the MU for over 50. This tribute has been provided by his wife, Frances.

Published: 04 November 2024

Read more about Tribute to Elmer Cole
Black and grey image of a small rock show at an underground/grassroots venue.

The MU and FAC Publish Open Letter to Government and Live Sector on Cost-of-Touring Crisis

The letter states how artists have previously been locked out of support mechanisms offered to other parts of the industry, and calls for a blanket ticket levy on arena events to help musicians progress in the sector. Members can show support for the letter by signing the MU and FAC’s petition.

Published: 29 October 2024

Read more about The MU and FAC Publish Open Letter to Government and Live Sector on Cost-of-Touring Crisis