What UK musicians need to know from the Kings Speech
The Kings Speech covered touring relief, venue safety and AI’s place in music, sparking response from the music industry.
A changing government means policy changes for the UK music industry. It couldn’t come at a better time, after venues and musicians have faced years of increasing struggles to continue. But is the forecast good?
The Kings Speech marks the official commitment to policies over the next few years. The comments made about the music industry have garnered response from the industry, and it mostly seems good.
Touring gets a boost
The new UK government have promised to “reset the relationship with European partners”. This is welcomed by many musicians whose touring opportunities have been damaged by Brexit and its resulting restrictions on their travel.
John Collins, CEO of LIVE, emphasises the importance of effortless movement for UK artists between nearby countries. Welcoming a commitment to better post-Brexit touring opportunities, Collins said: “We urge quick action on this.”
Devolution and local music scenes
The new Labour government are promising devolved powers to local authorities. A priority of theirs is to allow local governments to make decisions that best suit their area, without being restricted by decisions from far away in Westminster.
LIVE welcome the plans for devolving power to local authorities. The industry suggests that this could be positive for local music scenes, allowing for decisions that react to the unique issues facing local musicians and venues.
Venue safety and planning
LIVE acknowledged the government’s commitment to pass the Terrorism (Protection Of Premises) Bill, known as ‘Martyn’s Law’. Collins supported the bill’s safety objectives, but emphasised the need for a workable approach that builds on existing industry efforts and avoids placing undue burdens on venues.
The Association Of Independent Music (AIM) also expressed concerns about planning regulations impacting venues. AIM’s interim CEO, Gee Davy, urged the government to strengthen the “agent of change principle”. This is what ensures that new developers consider existing venues during construction
Skills and apprenticeship reform welcomed
Both LIVE and AIM applauded the government’s focus on skills and apprenticeship levy reform. Davy believes these reforms can empower businesses of all sizes to offer valuable training opportunities for young people.
Davy says: “We welcome reforms to broaden the apprenticeship levy, which we hope will enable businesses of all scales to engage and provide opportunities for young people.”
The future of AI in music
While a standalone AI bill wasn’t announced, the government’s commitment to regulating powerful AI models sparked discussions. The BPI (record industry trade group) emphasized the need for legislation that respects human creativity while fostering a collaborative environment between AI and music creation.
Earlier in the year, the UK blocked a damaging copyright exemption for training AI, effectively protecting artists’ copyrights. The new government haven’t explicitly mentioned music in its AI policy, but has promised to encourage the responsible growth of AI for good whilst protecting people.
The King’s Speech has set the stage for an evolving music industry landscape in the UK. Collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders will be crucial in navigating these changes and ensuring a thriving future for UK music.