Tom Kiehl, acting chief executive, UK Music, called on the Prime Minister to deliver ‘urgent clarity’ over the impact of the COVID-19 clampdown on music events.
Kiehl released a statement after Boris Johnson announced that the government would no longer be 'supporting' mass gatherings by using emergency workers.
As part of the new advice, the PM also advised people to avoid concerts, pubs, clubs and theatres, but he stopped short of an official ban which means insurers could avoid paying out on losses.
Responding to the comments, Tom Kiehl said: ‘Public safety remains the top priority for everyone involved in the UK music industry during this unprecedented health emergency. However, the Prime Minister’s latest advice on mass gatherings has resulted in huge uncertainty and confusion over what exactly it will mean for the music industry.
‘We need urgent clarity from Government about what exactly these new changes will mean. The Government must spell out whether there will be a formal ban, when that might come into effect, which venues and events will be impacted and how long the measures will remain in place.
‘The virus is having a catastrophic impact on the UK music industry and will threaten many jobs and businesses across our right across our sector.
‘As well as clarity, we need swift action from the Government to mitigate the immense damage and disruption this will cause to our music industry that is the envy of the world.
‘Unless music businesses and venues get help fast to get them though this desperately difficult period, the sad reality is the vital businesses and much loved venues will go to the wall.
‘UK Music will continue to speak to Government and will be working with our members to do all we can to press for help and work towards getting our industry back on its feet as quickly as possible.
‘We will continue to follow and support Government advice on coronavirus and urge everyone to listen to medical and scientific advice.’
Mr Kiehl said that the Government must look at what support it could offer festivals and other live music events.
Over the past few weeks, Coachella, Radio 1’s Big Weekend, SXSW and many others have been either cancelled or postponed. Significantly more are expected to follow suit in the near future.
