skip to main content

Welsh Government Shifts Position on Brexit

The MU welcomes the news that the Welsh Government has officially announced that it will now primarily argue for the UK to stay in the EU.

Published: 06 June 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM
The Senedd or National Assembly Building in Cardiff
The Senedd or National Assembly Building in Cardiff. Photo: Shutterstock

This decision to become a Remain government is a change from the Welsh Government’s previous proposals for a deal to protect Wales in the single market and customs union.

MU General Secretary, Horace Trubridge responded to the change:

“We are delighted that the Welsh Government has now come out in favour of remaining in the EU. The promises that were made during the referendum campaign are now distant memories, and a no deal Brexit looms on the horizon.

“Leaving the EU was never in the best interests of musicians and everything we have learned over the past three years has suggested that it could be even more disastrous than was initially thought.

“We must hope that progress is now made in Westminster to revoke Article 50 or hold a confimatory ballot.”

The MU’s position on Brexit

Brexit minister Jeremy Miles told Assembly Members that “parliament should now show the courage to admit it is deadlocked and legislate for a referendum, with remain on the ballot paper.”

The MU is calling for a General Election to follow the resignation of the Prime Minister, as it is clear that the Conservative Government has so far been unable to resolve the Brexit mess.

The Union continues to oppose any Brexit which removes freedom of movement for musicians, and believes that staying in the EU is still the best option.

Get involved

Musician? 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 as a Supporter for free to support our campaigns and protect the music you love.

For more news and advice on Brexit see our Brexit advice page.

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

Top view of an acoustic violin and pernambuco wood bow on a tabletop.

Save Pernambuco Bows: Write to Your MP Today

The MU is calling on members to take urgent action to protect the future of high-quality bow making and the musicians who rely on it, after a proposal to move pernambuco wood from Appendix II to Appendix I.

Published: 10 July 2025

Read more about Save Pernambuco Bows: Write to Your MP Today
MU Head of ED&I John Shortell, with Regional Officer Simeon Scheuber-Rush and MU delegates, on the main stage in front of a blue screen saying “TUC LGBT+ Workers’ Conference 2025

MU Champions Global LGBTQ+ Rights at TUC Conference

Last week, MU members represented the Union at TUC’s annual LGBT+ Workers' Conference, where a motion was passed unanimously on protecting LGBTQ+ rights globally, the value of ED&I work, and promoting greater awareness of intersectional, LGBTQ+ inclusive health and safety issues.

Published: 08 July 2025

Read more about MU Champions Global LGBTQ+ Rights at TUC Conference
A panel event from last year in a tent. There are four people sat along a table in front of a crowd.

MU Panels and Workshop Confirmed for Tolpuddle Festival 2025

Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival takes place next weekend and we’re pleased to share more details about the MU’s presence at the event – including confirmed panel appearances, a workshop session, and the debut of our brand new union banner in Sunday’s iconic march.

Published: 08 July 2025

Read more about MU Panels and Workshop Confirmed for Tolpuddle Festival 2025