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British musicians have already been hit hard by Brexit, with tours to the continent bogged down in work permit applications and customs paperwork. Now things are about to get worse.
A new Brexit tax hike set to hit U.K. orchestras later this year could make trips to Europe “unviable” and undermine their activities back in Britain, the trade body representing the musical ensembles is warning.
From April 1 this year, U.K. orchestras crossing the Channel to play will no longer be able to claim tax relief on performances in the European Economic Area, as they are currently allowed to do.
The U.K. government is making the change to bring Britain into line with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules – required because of the U.K.’s exit from the EU single market.
The tax hike is just the latest in a string of blows to British musicians following the U.K.’s departure from the EU.
New rules about taking instruments across borders, work visas, and “cabotage” requirements on transporting equipment by lorry have led to warnings that smaller British artists are increasingly finding it impossible to tour.
Now Britain’s orchestras say their incomes are at risk because of the latest change, with knock-on effects on investment and performances at home....
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