Performing artists exempt from quarantine regulations
Friday, December 4, 2020
The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) has announced that professional performing artists are exempt from quarantine regulations
In a statement, the ABO said: 'We are delighted to announce that the ABO and other stakeholders have been able to secure an exemption from quarantine regulations for professional performing artists travelling to the UK and for those returning from activity overseas (who have upcoming work commitments). Legislation will be laid in parliament and the exemption will come into force from 4am on Saturday 5th December.
'Arts Council England will be publishing guidance shortly on how the exemption will be applied.
'This exemption will apply initially to England only. Its extension to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will need ministerial approval from their respective governments.'
Mark Pemberton, director of the ABO, said: 'The ABO is delighted the government has granted an exemption from quarantine restrictions to performing arts professionals. We have been liaising with DCMS for many weeks, giving them evidence of the impact the restrictions were having on the flow of global talent into the UK, and on the ability of our members to fulfil engagements abroad.
'At a time when the government is keen to see our concert halls reopen, this step will make all the difference to helping our members recover from the damage the pandemic has inflicted. It is a welcome Christmas present for the classical music industry.'