31:07:2020 – UK Music has described the Prime Minister's decision to postpone the further easing of lockdown restrictions for at least two weeks as “very disappointing”.
The changes will mean that indoor performances will not resume tomorrow as originally planned. The socially-distanced reopening of indoor performances in England has been delayed until 15 August at the earliest, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said. The easing of restrictions at music venues was due to start this weekend, but has been delayed amid concerns over a rise in virus cases.
Reacting to the news, UK Music Acting CEO Tom Kiehl said:
“The postponement of the easing of lockdown restrictions is very disappointing news.
“We respect and understand the Government's decision. However, it is a bitter blow for the music industry which risks being left behind as other sectors get back on their feet.
“Having a date for indoor performances with social distancing was an important symbolic step on the road to recovery. The decision to push the date back by at least two weeks shows how vulnerable the music industry is in this pandemic and why financial support measures for musicians, creators and others must continue.
“The UK Music industry contributed £5.2 billion a year to the UK economy and sustained 190,000 jobs before Covid struck. It is vital that the Government continues to help the industry recover.”
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