ISM MUSIC JOURNAL MARCH/APRIL 2020
News & campaigns MAC releases recommendations for future immigration systems In late January, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) released its recommendations for future immigration systems in the UK.
UK will not implement EU Copyright Directive post-Brexit The Government has announced its intention not to implement the EU Copyright Directive post-Brexit. Universities and Science Minister Chris Skidmore announced the decision on 24 January in a response to a written parliamentary question and stated: ‘The United Kingdom will not be required to implement the Directive, and the Government has no plans to do so.’ The ISM is disappointed by the Government’s decision. Artists are vital contributors to culture and deserve fair remuneration for their work and the same protections that are afforded to artists in Europe. We urge the Government to rethink its decision. See more on page 7 about the Copyright Directive.
ISM Diary 2020-21 Plans are in action to put together our next ISM Diary ryy which will cover the academic year 2020-21. From membership feedback we understand that not everyone would like to receive the Diary. At the ISM we are mindful of paper usage and the impact on the environment, so if you would like to opt out of receiving next year’s diary, please let us know by calling us on 020 7221 3499 (Mon-Fri, 9.30am-5.30pm) or emailing membership@ism.org by 30 April.
2
Amongst several recommendations, including not implementing a full points-based immigration system, the Committee has advised that the salary threshold for skilled migrants entering the UK after Brexit should be reduced by £4,400 to £25,600. While this is a welcome first step, the salary threshold will continue to exclude a large proportion of the music profession. The Committee’s proposals also cite creative occupations as being amongst the ‘priority occupations’, along with health workers and scientists – a positive development towards protecting the prosperous music industry post-Brexit. For the ISM’s full statement visit ism.org/news
Are you signed up to Save Music? It is essential that there is a comprehensive deal in place which protects musicians’ livelihoods. This includes everything from a two-year, multientry visa to ensuring that musicians can take their instruments easily across the Channel to work in the EU. We will continue to campaign to make sure this happens. We urge you to share our message by contacting your local MP using our template letter. It’s essential that MPs are made aware of the issues that musicians are facing as a result of Brexit. Make an even greater impact and arrange to meet with your local MP in person at one of the regular surgeries that MPs hold for their constituents. If you would like to find out more, go to savemusic.org.uk.
