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

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, with reference to the provisions in the EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement on tariff-free movement of equipment for TV and film production, what plans he has to facilitate the movement of live music and production equipment across the EU.

This Government understands that the cultural and creative sectors rely on the ability to move people across borders quickly, simply, and with minimal cost and administration.

Being outside the European Union does not change this. It does, however, mean practical changes on both sides of the Channel that will require understanding and adaptation. UK professionals are of course still able to tour and work in the EU, and vice versa.

Since 1 January 2021, customs processes apply to all movements of commercial and non-commercials goods between Great Britain and the EU. Both parties’ include similar legislative provisions on the customs procedures governing the temporary admission of goods, which would include musical instruments and professional equipment and reflects practice set out in relevant international conventions, including the ATA and Istanbul Conventions. Where musicians or other professionals move equipment to the EU temporarily, which means they intend to return this equipment to the UK afterwards, there are several options to avoid payment of import duties in the EU and on return to the UK, including via the use of ATA Carnets and the Temporary Admission procedure.

A carnet is not required for musicians with accompanied instruments or equipment (carried or taken with the individual in personal baggage or a vehicle) travelling between Great Britain and The EU.

The management of EU import and export procedures is the responsibility of the customs authorities of the Member States. It is important that businesses and individuals confirm the processes in advance of their journey.

We are working urgently across government and in collaboration with the music and wider creative industries, including through the touring working group, to help address these issues so that touring in Europe can resume with ease as soon as it is safe to do so.