EU Does Not Plan to Facilitate Rules for UK Touring Musicians

Despite the fact that the two parties have vowed to improve their relationship, the negotiations have yet to take place and loosening post-Brexit rules on touring musicians – one of the key ambitions of the new UK government seems to not be happening anytime soon, EU Helpers reports.

According to sources cited by the Financial Times, these changes cannot happen since this would mean that fundamental modifications have to be made to the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA).

EU Not Ready to Consider Loosening Rules for UK Artists

As the briefing documents revealed by the Financial Times reveal, the necessary changes to rules on customs, services and other matters cannot be made as the EU is “not prepared to consider” any modifications.

The UK touring musicians have been calling on the government for a long time to sign deals with the EU that would facilitate their travel. The post-Brexit rules require artists who want to perform in the EU to obtain visas and transport permits for their equipment, which adds cost and makes it more challenging to perform in the 27 countries.

A study by the Musicians Union has revealed that 50 per cent of UK musicians believe that touring the EU “is not financially viable” after the UK left the EU.

On the other hand, a Reddit user has pointed out that a youth mobility scheme would be welcome.

EU & UK Keep Postponing Negotiations As Both Are Pushing For Personal Interests

While the UK wants to have restrictions for touring musicians lifted, the EU is pushing for a youth mobility scheme, which would enable young people from the UK and the EU to freely travel, study and work between the two territories.

Previously, a source by The Times revealed that the UK is considering giving the green light for a reciprocity mobility scheme for young people from the EU. However, the UK ministers were quick to deny claims that they are considering joining the youth mobility scheme with the EU.

In April, the EU came forward with a formal proposal to start negotiations with the UK for a youth mobility scheme. However, the proposal, although it would benefit both parties, was objected to by both the Conservative and the Labour parties.