Industry leaders urge EU-UK action to fix broken touring rules

Hundreds of musicians and music industry leaders from across the UK and Europe have issued an urgent call to political leaders to dismantle the barriers preventing free and fair touring across the European Union and the United Kingdom. In a powerful open letter addressed to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, European Council President António Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, more than 550 signatories warn that the current post-Brexit arrangements for touring artists are “not working.” They argue that these barriers are denying millions of music fans the chance to see their favourite acts live while stifling cultural exchange and economic growth. The letter, published ahead of the upcoming EU-UK Summit in London on May 19 and just days before the Eurovision Song Contest final in Basel, calls on leaders to remove the red tape and costs that have made touring between the UK and EU increasingly difficult since Brexit. Backed by thousands across the music sector, the letter was coordinated by leading industry bodies including the Musicians’ Union, the Association of British Orchestras, LIVE, Pearle*, the Independent Society of Musicians, and UK Music. “The ability to tour the EU free from barriers and restrictive red tape has been central to the UK music industry’s incredible success for decades,” said UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl (pictured). “These obstacles are now threatening the future of our world-class talent, especially at the grassroots level.” Among the high-profile supporters of the campaign are Blur drummer Dave Rowntree, British mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly, broadcaster and LIVE Chair Steve Lamacq, conductor Sir Mark Elder, and oboist and conductor Nicholas Daniel, OBE. Since the UK’s withdrawal from the EU in 2020, artists have faced increased bureaucracy, including visa and work permit requirements, complicated trucking regulations, and rising merchandise and touring costs. These challenges have led to a steep decline in opportunities for up-and-coming performers, especially those without large teams or financial backing. Sir Elton John previously described the situation as a “brick wall” for younger UK talent trying to break into European markets and has voiced strong support for reform. The EU was the UK’s largest live music market in 2019—worth four times more than the U.S.—but industry leaders warn that unless swift action is taken, this valuable market could remain inaccessible to many British acts. Musicians’ Union General Secretary Naomi Pohl emphasized the need for political will: “Touring internationally is crucial to musicians’ livelihoods. The current costs and admin are nonsensical and disproportionately impact grassroots artists.” LIVE CEO Jon Collins echoed the broad support behind the letter: “The importance of resolving touring issues crosses borders, genres and functions. The benefits of easier mobility are economic, cultural, and societal.” The letter concludes with a unified plea: “As our political leaders, we call on your combined efforts in these important talks to overcome any obstacles and barriers affecting the economic and cultural growth of this important sector.”