UK Music’s Director of Government and Public Affairs Tom Kiehl told the House of Lords that the Government needs to provide reassurances on Brexit to overcome fears within the music industry.

Tom highlighted a recent UK Music survey which indicated that only 2% of music industry workers thought their chances of work would be better outside the EU.

Tom outlined UK Music’s priorities on Brexit to secure the copyright framework and avoid the imposition of new tariffs. Tom also highlighted the need to overcome non-tariff barriers which might be a consequence of Brexit, such as greater restrictions around live touring of the EU and delays at borders. 

Tom called for an EU wide “touring passport” to be established to ensure musicians and their crew can continue to tour the EU after Brexit and argued for a transitional phase to be agreed with continued membership of the single market and customs union to allow for a period of adjustment after Brexit.

Whilst calling for reassurances, Tom praised the Government’s engagement with UK Music on Brexit and welcomed the continuity of Matt Hancock MP’s promotion as Secretary of State for DCMS.

Tom was giving evidence to the House of Lords EU Internal Market Sub-Committee as part of their inquiry into Brexit and trade in non-financial services.

The Committee, chaired by former minister Lord (Larry) Whitty, and involving other senior politicians including former Health Secretary Lord (Andrew) Lansley,  asked representatives from creative industry bodies a range of questions including what preparations are being made for a “no deal” scenario and what regulations the UK Government should review after Brexit.

To view the session click here: http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Event/Index/3f49de7b-7a5a-453c-9124-35b83fc60e71