Performing Artists and Musicians: Access to the EU

Debate between Baroness McIntosh of Pickering and Baroness Twycross

Wednesday 22nd July 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

I do recognise how some creative professionals have found it more difficult to take up opportunities in Europe, as practical barriers, including whether they have an EU passport, can have a disproportionate impact. That is why we are working with the European Commission and member states. The Government remain 100% committed to resolving this issue and to improving opportunities for UK artists of all ages to access European audiences and develop international experiences, recognising the cultural and economic value that those exchanges bring.

[Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Con)]

My Lords, as the Minister will know, the European entry system is proving a great difficulty for EU performing artists and musicians, and particularly for British colleagues going over to the EU. Will she look at this and see whether we can ameliorate the situation to make their travel easier?

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

I think the noble Baroness is referring to the entry/exit system. It is an EU scheme and its implementation is primarily the responsibility of the European Commission and participating member states. However, the Government recognise that there has been some disruption—in some cases, considerable disruption—and we continue to work closely with EU member states and industry to understand the impact of the EES and advocate for the use of flexibilities that minimise disruption for UK citizens, including performers.

Live Music Industry: Support

Debate between Baroness McIntosh of Pickering and Baroness Twycross

Monday 23rd June 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

My own health is considerably enhanced by being able to attend events. From a government perspective, it is key that all children have the chance to realise their musical talent and that music events are open to all. That is why the Government are working with Young Sounds UK on a four-year music opportunities pilot to break down barriers to music education for disadvantaged students.

[Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Con)]

The noble Earl made an excellent point about the agent of change. The ad hoc committee on the review of the Licensing Act 2003, which I had the honour to chair, made a specific recommendation that the agent of change should be enshrined in law. Without that, real pressure is put on existing music venues, which suffered terribly, along with the hospitality sector more generally, during Covid. Will the Minister look favourably on enshrining the agent of change into law to ensure a vibrant future for existing music venues?

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

The Government are committed to developing a truly plan-led system with a policy framework that is accessible and understandable to all. To that end, we intend to consult on a set of national policies for decision-making later this year. As I mentioned in a previous response, we want to enable new developments such as housing to co-exist with cultural infrastructure such as music venues. I understand the frustration behind the noble Baroness’s question.

Procurement Act 2023

Debate between Baroness McIntosh of Pickering and Baroness Twycross

Tuesday 15th October 2024 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

I will look into that matter and write to the noble Lord on that point.

[Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Con)]

My Lords, in their manifesto, the Government committed themselves

“through public sector targets to source locally-produced food”

to help farmers. We on this side would applaud that, but how does the Minister square that with the terms of the Procurement Act, which prevents farmers and others from bidding to be sources of food in schools, prisons and hospitals?

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

I am not aware of any particular measures that would prevent them from doing that, but I will look into that matter and revert to the noble Baroness.