Politicians urge government to tackle 'profound challenge' facing music industry

In total, 22 MPs from the main political parties have signed a Commons motion outlining the support needed by the music industry.

Signed by representatives from the Conservative, Labour, Liberal Democrat, the Green Party, Scottish Nationalist Party, Democrat Unionist Party and the Social Democratic and Labour Party, the motion calls on prime minister Boris Johnson to: 

• Establish a government-backed insurance scheme to pave the way for live music events to proceed 

• Extend existing government support to match the extension of Covid-19 restrictions

• Ensure parity across UK Nations and Regions regarding extension of the 100% business rate relief

• Continue the VAT freeze at 5% for cultural tickets beyond September

• Give additional support to freelancers 

UK Music chief executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin said: 'It’s welcome to see support for the UK music industry from MPs right across the political spectrum. Now it’s vital that this cross-party support is converted into action by government.

'We are determined to play our part in helping drive the post-pandemic recovery and want to see live music events back as soon as possible. 

 'With the right support from the government, the music industry can get back on its feet and deliver a summer of live music and create thousands of jobs.'