The UK government has consistently failed to recognise the scale of the challenge facing those in the creative industries. Here's a short thread on today's @CommonsDCMS report on the impact of Covid-19, the problems faced and some of the recommendations.
In the first 12 weeks of lockdown, more than 15,000 theatre performances were cancelled at a loss of more than £303 million. Julian Bird, CEO of @uk_theatre told us 70% of theatres and production companies risked going out of business by the end of the year. 
The @musicvenuetrust told the committee that 93% of the grassroots venue network faced permanent closure. @UK_Music told us 90% of all music festivals will be cancelled in 2020. @WeAreTheMU told us venues and festivals are vital because they act as R&D incubators for the industry
Too many people within the creative industries have fallen between the gaps of government help and weren't eligible for the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme. The government need to urgently review this and ensure help for those excluded is corrected now and for the future.
The government needs to learn from the shortcomings of previous support schemes and specifically look at those who are self-employed or work for charities. A sector specific plan should be implemented due to the unique characteristics of the creative industries.
The government need to introduce more fiscal measures such as a cut in VAT on ticket sales for theatres, music venues and festivals. The government should also look to increase theatre tax relief and introduce a music tax relief. Agent of Change principle needed to protect venues
Key recommendations in brief:
This is only a brief snapshot of some of the things contained in the report. You can read it in full here: publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5801/cmse…
