THREE major arts unions warned today that workers in the sector could miss out on much-needed working opportunities after Brexit.

Representatives from the Musicians’ Union (MU), Equity and the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain have urged the government to come forward with guidance and to stand up for creatives at the ongoing negotiations.

Campaigners from the three groups have said musicians, actors and writers are facing significant hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic alongside serious uncertainty throughout the Brexit transition period. 

Britain’s exit from the European Union is set to be completed in January, but many performers represented by the unions say they need opportunities to work in Europe more than ever.

The three groups have now written to Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden, calling for greater clarity to ensure creative work across Europe remains viable for British artists.

Paul W Fleming, general secretary of Equity, said: “Our members still have bills to pay. If working in the industry becomes unviable, the rest of the country will miss out on the arts and culture they love for years to come. 

“Now is the time for the government to provide the industry with reassurance that it won’t be unnecessarily disadvantaged due to Brexit.”

They also ask for the government to set out its position on copyright and the position of the arts in future trade deals. 

MU general secretary Horace Trubridge said: “Our members need to know they will be able to work and travel freely before they can plan their jobs. The government should make their position clearer.”

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport was contacted for comment.