Music: EU Countries

(asked on 14th April 2021) - View Source

Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what progress has been made on negotiating a cultural exemption to cabotage rules for music tours in the EU.


Answered by
Caroline Dinenage Portrait
Caroline Dinenage
This question was answered on 21st April 2021

The Government recognises the importance of touring to the creative and cultural sectors, and is committed to helping them navigate the new rules under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

The UK pressed for a special derogation from the cabotage restrictions for hauliers carrying equipment for the purpose of concert tours and similar activities. The EU rejected this. DCMS and the Department of Transport are working with the industry to understand the implications of the new rules and discuss options for support.

With regards to carnet and CITES requirements, the management of EU import and export procedures is the responsibility of the customs authorities of the Member States, so it is important that individuals or businesses confirm the processes at their port of arrival and any conditions or procedures that may apply. However, it is worth noting that a carnet is not required for musicians with accompanied instruments (carried or taken with the individual in personal baggage or a vehicle) travelling between Great Britain and the EU. If not accompanied (carried as freight) then customs formalities (through a declaration or use of a carnet) will be required.

Officials in the Border and Protocol Delivery Group (BPDG) are engaging with custom authorities as needed if issues arise. DCMS will work with BPDG and the sector to address issues facing musicians.

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