Creatives warn over Brexit
Trade unions representing workers in the creative industries have joined forces to warn that creative workers could miss out on much-needed working opportunities due to Brexit.
The Musicians’ Union (MU), actors’ Equity union and the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain have urged the government to come forward with guidance and to stand up for creatives at the ongoing negotiations.
The unions warn that musicians, actors and writers face hardship caused by the pandemic which has put a stop to live performances and new commissions. At the same time, uncertainty caused by Brexit means finding new work after the transition period ends in January looks more and more challenging. Many performers represented by the unions say they need opportunities to work in Europe more than ever.
In a letter to culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, the unions called on the government to clarify its position on ensuring creative work across Europe remains viable for British artists.
And the letter asked the government to set out its stance on copyright and the position of the arts in future trade deals, amid fears that the impact on the creative industries of leaving the EU is not top of the agenda.
The unions pointed out that many members fell through the cracks of the government’s coronavirus support packages introduced since March.
Now, secondary jobs in hospitality and schools, for example, are also at risk for many musicians, performers and writers.