skip to main content

Concern Over Threat to Future of BBC Funding

The MU is concerned by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Nicky Morgan’s confirmation that the government is considering the removal of the BBC licence fee over the long-term yesterday morning.

Published: 06 February 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
White tile letter blocks spelling out
Any threat to the financial stability of the BBC is a threat to the livelihood of so many of our members. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The Minister confirmed the future of the BBC licence fee is on the table in future negotiations. Whilst Morgan says the licence fee will remain during this charter period, set to end in 2027, she states that it is important to be ‘open-minded’ about what might come next.

The Union is also concerned about the possible threat of a £200m funding cut to the BBC, should the levels of licence fee evasion rise following the proposed decriminalisation of non-payment.

A threat to the BBC is a threat to our members

Horace Trubridge, MU General Secretary, says:

“For many years the BBC has been largest employer of musicians in the UK and remains home to five of our highly-respected and world-famous orchestras. In addition our composer members are regularly commissioned to provide the soundtrack to numerous films, documentaries and programmes.

"Any threat to the financial stability of the BBC is a threat to the livelihood of so many of our members. We will always be concerned about any government policy, which may lead to a cut in the employment and commissioning of British musicians.”

Protect the music you love

The MU is the largest organisation representing musicians in the UK. Join for £1 and get your first six months free as well as contract advice, professional development and networking, and support when you need it most.

Love music? Sign up for free as a supporter and join a community of over 1000 music fans, protecting musicians’ rights and campaigning for a fairer music industry with the MU.

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

Close up hands holding a pen and paper in front of a keyboard.

Protect Creative Work: AI Petition Passes 10,000 Signatures

The Creators’ Rights Alliance (CRA) has passed 10,000 signatures on its petition calling for greater transparency around copyrighted works used to train generative AI. The MU, a CRA member, fully supports the campaign, which is now aiming for 100,000 signatures.

Published: 28 August 2026

Read more about Protect Creative Work: AI Petition Passes 10,000 Signatures
Silhouette of crowd with their hands in the air, watching a small outdoor stage, lit by blue lights. Confetti falls from the sky.

MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost

The MU has welcomed the launch of the Northern Music Export Office (NMEO), calling it a significant step towards creating more opportunities for musicians across the North and helping artists build sustainable careers at home while reaching audiences worldwide.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost
Jack onstage as an older man, wearing a white shirt and playing trombone.

Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free

Jack Free was a talented trombonist who performed alongside some of the great names in jazz during a career spanning more than six decades. He was a proud and long-standing member of the Musicians’ Union, having originally joined in 1956. This tribute has been written by his son, Colin.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free