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.