State of Play: Performing arts touring in the EU

We recommend that the government, as it goes into the next UK–EU summit and the review of the implementation of the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, prioritise securing practical solutions to reduce barriers faced by UK touring artists. In particular, the government should ensure that negotiations explicitly address arrangements for short-term touring, extended stays, customs barriers and cabotage rules. The government should also set out clear objectives for these discussions and report back to industry on progress made towards achieving workable, reciprocal solutions. (Recommendation, Paragraph 27)

We previously reported that the UK benefited significantly from Creative Europe, and are disappointed by the government’s continued reluctance to rejoin. Re-engaging with the programme, and its proposed successor AgoraEU, would restore access to EU funding that supports artists and cultural professionals to travel, collaborate and build international partnerships, while promoting UK culture abroad. (Conclusion, Paragraph 31)

We recommend that, at the next UK–EU summit, the government signal its intention to participate in Creative Europe/AgoraEU, and that it join the programme before the next funding cycle begins in 2028. (Recommendation, Paragraph 32) 13

In the absence of a UK–EU deal for touring artists, we recommend the government use bilateral relations with member states to seek cultural agreements. The government should work with industry to identify the most important destinations for cultural touring and prioritise discussions accordingly. We expect the government to set out its initial priorities for bilateral discussions in its response to this report. (Recommendation, Paragraph 35)

In its response to this report, the government should update us on its unilateral activities to support UK artists working and touring in the EU. We recommend the government looks at all available options to help touring artists manage the additional costs and administration of complying with post-Brexit rules, including: reducing the upfront costs of ATA carnets for cultural touring; reinstating orchestral tax relief for tours in the EU; and actively facilitating the future designation of St Pancras International as a CITES port of entry and exit. (Recommendation, Paragraph 40)

We recommend that the government establish a cultural touring advice hub, building on its existing export support service. This hub should offer practical, expert advice to artists and their teams on all aspects of international touring, including in the EU, and act as a clear point of access to relevant government support. This should be in place within the next twelve months. (Recommendation, Paragraph 45) 14