Classical musicians protested outside the U.K. Parliament in 2019.
When the pandemic dies down and U.K. artists can resume touring, new regulations may put European dates — and even merchandise sales — out of reach.
LONDON — Amid a worsening coronavirus crisis, leading representatives of the British music industry hastily convened virtually on Jan. 20 with
Oliver Dowden, U.K. secretary of state for culture, media and sport, to solve another looming problem: how Brexit and the recent European Union trade deal could keep U.K. artists from touring freely in countries like France and Spain — and European acts from doing the same in the United Kingdom. When live shows return, tours could face extra customs checks, higher costs and border delays — not to mention possible taxes on everything from T-shirts to vinyl. Crews and musicians could also need new work permits for shows in Europe.