The creative industries have been identified as one of eight growth sectors. Photo: Shutterstock.
We are really pleased to see some of the manifesto commitments that the MU has lobbied so hard for included in the sector plan. These include:
- A commitment to ensure that creative subjects are core to the curriculum
- Continued work on cultural exchange with the EU, including working to secure improvements for touring artists
- A commitment from Government to work on an industry-led agreement on streaming, including improved session musician remuneration.
The MU has lobbied very hard for increased money for music and musicians, and so we welcome news that:
- the creative industries have been identified as one of eight growth sectors
- music has been noted as a high growth driving sector within the creative industries.
Within the £380 million extra investment for the creative industries, there will also be a Music Growth Package of up to £30 million over a three-year period.
Government has also committed to strengthening the rights and protections for freelancers
Other positive measures in the plan include:
- the appointment of a creative freelance champion
- statements in support of a copyright regime that supports human creativity
- supporting live music via agent of change and reforms on licensing deregulation
- co-designing a fairer business rates system.
It is also very positive that the Government has committed to strengthening the rights and protections for freelancers and the self-employed through the Plan to Make Work Pay.
This will include measures to tackle late payments, the right to a written contract, extension of health and safety and blacklisting protections, and consultation on a simpler framework for employment status.
We hope that as the plan develops we see a real boost to musicians' opportunities
Naomi Pohl, MU General Secretary, says: “The Creative Sector Plan and accompanying investment is welcome at a time when musicians and other creatives face multiple challenges in their careers. Recognising the particular needs of the freelance workforce and establishing a creative freelance champion is a step forward to improving their rights, remuneration and ensuring they are respected at work.
“We are also pleased to see issues with the cost of domestic and international touring recognised, alongside the importance of creative education and grassroots music. Music streaming is also a key area where Government intervention could make a real difference to our members' lives.
“We hope that, as the plan develops and with our continued input, we see a real boost to musicians' employment and opportunities, and ultimately their pay and conditions.”