UK risks losing out on ‘future generation of superstars’ if government doesn’t protect music venues

Sign up to Roisin O’Connor’s free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Get our Now Hear This email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Steve Lamacq has warned of the “challenging time” faced by the live music sector, as grassroots venues face massive rises in running costs and ongoing closures. Ahead of the impending Autumn Statement, LIVE is urging chancellor of the exchequer Jeremy Hunt to provide vital financial support to help safeguard grassroots venues and boost the economic potential of the live music sector. Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 4 month free trial Sign up Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 4 month free trial Sign up While LIVE worked closely with the government during the pandemic to ensure support for the UK’s music industry, it says that this support has not been sustained. It’s crucial that the voice of the live music sector is heard at the next general election.” open image in gallery Ed Sheeran started out playing many of the UK’s grassroots music venues, many of which now face permanent closure Collins said that simple interventions, such as the extension of the business rates relief and a return to lower VAT, would help align the UK with its international competitors.