skip to main content

Brexit: Where We Are Now

It’s been a busy few weeks for Brexit watchers. Earlier this month, the Prime Minister and the European Union released the proposed Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration.

Published: 06 December 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

It’s been a busy few weeks for Brexit watchers. Earlier this month, the Prime Minister and the European Union released the proposed Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration.

Since then, the Government has been defeated in several key votes and the crucial vote on the deal is timetabled for Tuesday 11 December.

Read an updated version of this story here.

Here we take a look at what all this means for musicians.

The Brexit Deal and Political Declaration

The Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration commit to end freedom of movement between the United Kingdom and European Union member states, which is a real problem for lots of our members.

The Political Declaration does say the Government will aim to negotiate temporary entry arrangements for people travelling for business, but there is no guarantee that this will be sufficient for our members’ purposes.

There is nothing in the proposal that guarantees that musicians who regularly visit a variety of EU countries throughout the year to work will be able to continue to do so.

The Musicians’ Union will continue to fight either for freedom of movement or, at the very least, a simple, cheap and admin-light EU touring visa for musicians and performers.

When do we know what’s happening?

The Brexit Deal still has to get through the UK Parliament on Tuesday 11 December, which is looking far from certain.

What happens then?

If it passes in Parliament, and then the EU, there will be no change to your right to work in the EU until at least December 2020.

We will continue to press Government for clarity on your right to work in the EU after that date and a way for musicians to travel relatively freely and easily, for example a touring visa for musicians and performers.

If the Brexit Deal doesn’t pass, that could mean a re-negotiation or a no deal scenario. That would be uncharted territory for everyone.

Our preference here is a re-negotiation, which opens space for freedom of movement to return – something we started lobbying for immediately after the Brexit referendum, and which remains our first preference for musicians.

The Musicians’ Union (MU) will be keeping members updated via Twitter, Facebook and email – so make sure your email is up to date by logging in to My MU.

A People’s Vote

We are proud to support a People’s Vote. Whatever the outcome on Tuesday 11 December, whatever Parliament decides now or in the future, we believe it is important that you have a say on the final outcome.

As a trade union that democracy is in our DNA – our members ask us to negotiate a deal, we do that, and take that deal back to members with a consultative ballot. You can’t undermine democracy with more democracy.

What you can do right now

Lastly, there has been talk of a snap election almost daily since the last one in 2017.

The next election is not due until 2022, but who knows what will happen between now and then. That’s why we encourage everyone to ensure they are registered to vote.

If you are already registered, you must re-register if you have changed name, address or nationality.

Not a musician?

That’s okay – if you love music, you can still show your support.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

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

Young Black musician in a wheelchair, working on his music with a keyboard and laptop in a studio.

MU to Host Panel and Workshop at Liverpool Sound City Conference

The annual Sound City Music Industry Conference is the UK’s leading independent conference for new music. Taking place in Liverpool on 2 May, the MU will host a panel on changing attitudes and perceptions to access requirements for touring artists. Ticket discount is also available to members.

Published: 24 April 2025

Read more about MU to Host Panel and Workshop at Liverpool Sound City Conference
Leon Slater, sat smiling in an armchair.

Tribute to Leon Slater

Leon Slater was a highly accomplished saxophonist who was devoted to his music. He was a member of the MU for over fifty years and had a life-long passion for jazz. This tribute has been provided by Leon’s wife and family.

Published: 24 April 2025

Read more about Tribute to Leon Slater