Question reference: S6W-00222
- Asked by: Pauline McNeill, MSP for Glasgow, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 26 May 2021
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Current status: Answered by Jenny Gilruth on 8 June 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what support it will offer to Scotland-based musicians to cover any additional costs of touring that they might face because of Brexit.
Answer
The Scottish Government recognises the additional barriers that Scotland-based touring musicians are likely to face as a result of the UK’s exit from the EU, including the potential need for visas and work permits. We are working closely with the sector to consider urgently what additional support can be provided to musicians and others working in the sector to mitigate these barriers.
The Scottish Government has already provided funding for Arts Infopoint UK, which will provide advice and support to cultural and creative professionals on obtaining visas and other requirements for working in the UK.
The Scottish Government has repeatedly called on the UK Government to negotiate with the EU to seek visa- and work permit-free arrangements for cultural and creative professionals working in EU countries on a short-term basis, for activities including touring. Scottish Ministers are continuing to make the case for such arrangements to be sought in engagements with UK counterparts.