From dancers and actors to puppeteers, people working in creative industries face uncertainty in wages and future gigs. Artists of all types have found themselves struggling in the current circumstances.

In particular, the Government’s failure to secure a visa-free work permit for touring artists in the EU will have a significant impact on their livelihoods.

In Parliament, Munira asked the Minister for Digital and Culture, Caroline Dinenage MP, what assurances she could offer those working in the creative industries that the Government will improve this situation.

Following the exchange, Munira said:

“The Government’s failure to secure a visa-free permit for touring artists as part of its EU trade deal has created a huge obstacle for those working in the creative industries to find future work. This, coupled with the fact that many have also been excluded from Government’s Covid support schemes, will be a hammer blow to their livelihoods.

I will continue to press the Government to ensure this vital sector is not treated as an afterthought by Ministers. The Government must extend support schemes to those who are currently excluded so that those in the creative industries are better supported. British artists must also have the opportunity to perform across Europe through a permit that allows them visa-free travel, in order that the UK’s world-leading creative sectors can continue to thrive and grow.”