UK budget: Association of Independent Music calls for support for UK music industry

15 March 2023 - Press release

CEO Silvia Montello said: "Although encouraging to see the Government extend help to small businesses, the lack of support for the UK music industry in today's Budget is worrying. The business currently faces an array of challenges — from increased costs of touring, to the negative effects of leaving the EU and continued economic pressures on our SMEs.

"Our competitive position within the global music market is in decline and requires urgent investment across our industry. This means introducing greater support for diverse and developing talent, much of which is nurtured within the independent sector that represents nearly 30% of the UK recordings business and 80% of new music releases.

"Key measures must include fiscal incentives for music - on par with those already implemented across film, TV, animation and video games industries - to stimulate content creation and sector growth, and increased support for the live sector, such as reducing VAT on gig tickets in line with other European countries. AIM would welcome the introduction of an Arts Pupil Premium to help lower the socio-economic barrier to music education in schools, and the creation of a national music export office to reflect the UK music industry's position as a net exporter and help British talent continue to build global audiences.

"As part of the UK's commitment to growing AI and emerging technologies, it's vital that music IP and copyright protections remain robust, to protect the income and livelihoods of our recorded music creators and performers".

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