UK Musicians Face Significant Losses in EU Work Post-Brexit

AI Summary

More than a quarter of British musicians have lost all their work in the EU since 2021 due to Brexit-related restrictions, with average tour earnings falling by 45%. The UK music sector, which contributes £8bn to the economy, is facing significant challenges.

The Impact of Brexit on UK Musicians

More than a quarter of British musicians have lost all their work in the European Union since 2021, according to new research. The report by European Movement UK, a cross-party campaign group advocating closer UK-EU relations, found that nearly half of British musicians had experienced a reduced amount of work in the EU since 2021.

Financial Losses and Reduced Opportunities

Average tour earnings had fallen by 45%, with 59% of musicians saying touring in Europe was no longer viable. The UK music sector, which contributes £8bn to the economy, is facing significant challenges, including different visa systems in each EU member state, new work permit requirements, and the Schengen 90-days-in-180 rule.

The Broader Impact on the Creative Industry

The issues highlighted are highly relevant to other creative industries, including film, TV, and video. Tom Kiehl, the chief executive of UK Music, said that touring the EU remains financially unviable post-Brexit for many musicians and performers.

The Future of UK-EU Cultural Exchange

Unless barriers to mobility are addressed, the UK risks further weakening a sector central not only to employment and growth, but to its cultural reach abroad. The report sets out a series of direct costs affecting touring artists, including temporary admission (ATA) carnets and cabotage rules.