UK Music CEO Michael Dugher has written to the Prime Minister, following the EU’s approval of the terms of Britain’s withdrawal from the bloc.
In his letter, Dugher has warned of the risks Brexit poses to the UK music industry and called for certainty on key issues.
His intervention comes after EU leaders approved the terms of the UK’s exit from the EU at a summit on Sunday.
In his letter to Theresa May, Dugher said he was “deeply worried” by the potential threats posed to the UK music industry, which contributes £4.5 billion a year to the UK economy.
Key concerns related to freedom of movement and copyright protection.
Dugher said: “The ending of free movement with no waiver for musicians will put our fast-growing live music sector, that generates around £1 billion a year for the UK economy, at serious risk.
“The costly bureaucracy will make touring simply unviable for very many artists who need to earn a living and it delivers a hammer blow to development of future, world-leading British talent. UK musicians need to be able to move swiftly, often at very short notice, across Europe to take up offers of work, while overseas musicians need similar freedoms to come to play in our world-renowned recording studios, grassroots music venues or festival circuit."
The Incorporated Society Of Musicians has also voiced concern over the impact that the loss of freedom of movement will have on touring musicians.
Dugher added: “The clock is ticking. We need an end to the uncertainty and an urgent and clear commitment from the Government to maintain the freedom to work for the music industry.”
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