What effects will Brexit have on the UK music industry?
Culture secretary John Whittingdale MP has released a statement regarding the UK’s vote to leave the EU. Whittingdale explains the effects on UK culture, with the music industry coming under that umbrella. Whittingdale says that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) will ensure that all of their related sectors have a voice.
The statement reads…
”The British people have voted to leave the European Union, and the Government are now united in delivering the result and making sure that we secure the best possible future for the UK.”
“DCMS will work closely with all of our sectors to make sure they have a voice as we now prepare for a negotiation to exit the EU. Our sectors are amongst some of the strongest and fastest growing, contributing 16% of total Gross Value Added to the UK economy. We will support our sectors in seeking new arrangements which will maintain our trade relations and encourage them to look for new opportunities across the world.
Whittingdale also said at the UK Music reception at the House Of Commons that the one thing he is absolutely certain about is that ”British music will go on continuing to thrive.”
But, is this a statement of reassurance for British people – a bid to dim the huge effects Brexit may have on the UK music industry?
Or, are we going to see some drastic changes which bear huge negative implications on music fans and music artists across Europe?
There have been several concerns raised regarding the effects Brexit may have on artists and the cost of touring. Currently the UK has the benefit of the EU-US open skies regulation – this means that flights between Europe and the United States are regulated. Flights are more regular and cheaper. But, Brexit could have a huge impact on this, raising the costs for both music fans who travel to see their favourite artists perform, and for the music acts who travel as part of a tour to perform for their music fans.
Also, currently UK artists can work anywhere in Europe as the EU membership gives them to right to without a work permit. However, there is speculation that this may change – The EU may decide that a work permit is required. All of these factors will have significant effects for music fans and artists across Europe and may significantly impact the UK music industry.
But, as Whittingdale says ”there will also be new opportunities for the UK” in which the DCMS ‘will seize’.
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