This is great news for our live music circuit and absolutely vital for the on-going health of venues right across the UK. Photo credit: Shutterstock
The move is designed to lessen the affect the COVID-19 virus outbreak is certain to have upon cultural life across the UK and ensures vital support for our influential live music sector.
The announcement, made as part of the Chancellor’s budget statement in parliament, supersedes the recent understanding that small venues were set to benefit from a 50% discount in 2020.
The break from business rates for the coming months has also been granted to similar small businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sector – such as theatres and night clubs – even though they were not initially eligible for the previously announced relief.
Dave Webster, MU National Organiser for Live Performance, said:
“This is great news for our live music circuit and absolutely vital for the on-going health of venues right across the UK, which offer both superb local entertainment and the breeding grounds for the next generation of name artists.”
Take action now
Although this year’s budget contains promising news for grassroots venues under the threat of COVID-19, it is not enough to protect freelancers – including musicians – from the potential loss of income they face.
Join the MU’s call for Government to extend sick pay from day one to freelance workers affected by or self isolating due to coronavirus.