Good Reads

Can Labour twist the arm of a resolute Brussels?

Labour’s manifesto pledge to 'help our touring artists' in the EU sparked hope in the music industry. But, as Rachel Healy writes, Keir Starmer may find the EU is not prepared to consider many of the necessary changes.

Arts Professional
1 min read

Industry insiders have urged the UK government to find a solution to post-Brexit restrictions on live music touring, after EU documents suggested Brussels was “not prepared” to change regulations.

In Labour’s manifesto, Keir Starmer pledged to improve trade and investment relations with the EU to “help our touring artists” . Since Brexit, musicians touring the EU have faced barriers introduced in the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). They can work up to 90 out of every 180 days, which causes problems for longer tours, musicians who work in multiple bands or orchestras, and crew required on site before and after performances.

Customs documents for instruments, transportation issues and limits on merchandise sales have also made touring in the EU more time-consuming and less profitable. Visa and work permit requirements differ across EU member states… Keep reading on The Observer.