The Musicians’ Union calls for urgent Government action to support jobs in music sector

The Musicians’ Union (MU) has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to take immediate action to support musicians and freelancers in their workplaces.

The MU said urgent changes are needed to employment rights and protections for those working in the music industry, especially freelancers. 

The union called for stronger copyright laws that give musicians more control over how their work is used and ensure fair compensation when their music is used by tech platforms or for artificial intelligence training. 

The MU also wants clearer obligations on tech firms to recognise and reward the work of creators, protecting income streams for freelancers and contract workers.

The union highlighted the barriers freelancers and musicians face when touring in the EU, including the cost and complexity of paperwork after Brexit. 

The MU said practical measures should be addressed to make it easier for musicians to work, tour and earn a living across borders.

These steps would help make the music sector a fairer and more sustainable workplace for musicians, according to the union.