Survey Reveals Over 50% of UK Musicians Say Touring the EU is Not Financially Viable

However, the UK Musicians' Union is hopeful that the new Labour Government will help

The UK's Musicians' Union (MU) has released the findings of its recent survey on the impact of Brexit on touring musicians.

75% of respondents who worked in the EU prior to Brexit said that their bookings have declined since that time, while 59% said it was no longer financially viable for them to tour the EU at all. 22% of respondents lost 75% of their EU work.

The ATA Carnet, a customs document required for some EU work, was also cited as a factor in rising costs. Some musicians reported having to pay between £300 and £2000 as part of the application process, while 41% chose to hire equipment within the EU to avoid having to apply for one.

Finally, 13% of respondents had, on occasion, lost either part or all of their fees for EU work because of UK-based complications with tax and national insurance.

The MU, however, had a positive outlook on the scenario now that the UK has a new Labour Government. Nick Thomas-Symonds has been appointed as the Minister for European Relations and has promised to work towards solutions for British touring musicians.

"This is a significant moment for us. It’s very encouraging to hear the need to find solutions for touring musicians mentioned so often by the Labour Ministers."

"We look forward to working with our music industry colleagues and Labour to drive this process forward. It is refreshing to have our concerns finally taken seriously. The last four years have now paid dividends in winning the argument for change."