21/06/17: UK Music chief executive Michael Dugher gives his reaction to the Queen's Speech

Commenting on the Queen’s Speech, UK Music chief executive Michael Dugher said:

“We welcome the chance offered by the Trade Bill in the Queen’s Speech to build on the UK music industry’s £2.2 billion export contribution.

The Trade Bill is an ideal opportunity for the Government to stress that copyright and its enforcement should be a key part of the trade negotiations and that the UK creative industries must not be used as a bargaining chip in any trade talks.
We welcome proposals for a new Digital Charter and hope it will cover the vital issues concerning infringements of copyright and intellectual property.

UK Music will be holding the Government to account to get the best possible Brexit deal for the thousands of people who work and depend on the UK music industry.

“The proposed Immigration Bill must reassure EU workers in the UK music industry about their futures and ensure that we can still attract  talented people from overseas to work in the industry.

Any changes to the immigration system must not put unnecessary barriers in the path touring artists visiting the UK or our artists touring abroad.

We are disappointed that the Queen’s Speech does not include any “agent of change” proposals – a simple planning reform that would protect the future of many live music venues.

We will continue to fight for this important change to protect our cherished music venues and to campaign against any proposed legislation that could damage our industry.”