 I was pleased to speak on Times Radio this weekend to discuss how Parliament really works and the need to work together cross-party in order to get things done. We don’t see the committee work that goes on behind the scenes where MPs from different parties discuss issues, analyse legislation, and develop new ideas. What we do see in the news and reported in newspapers is the confrontation – the jeering at PMQs, the anger at answers given during departmental question sessions.
Wales is known as a land of music, from the sound of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau ringing out at the Principality to the the countless local choirs and bands that thrive across our communities, but the ability of musicians to have a sustainable career and the future of the live music industry is under threat. The music industry alone is worth £5.8 billion to the UK economy, employing thousands of people from musicians to technicians to venue staff. But the UK government's determination to pursue a Brexit that pleased some of their own backbenchers not one that safeguarded the UK economy has created layers of red tape, burdening performers and businesses with additional barriers and costs. As part of my role as a member of the Petitions Committee I had the opportunity speak with people from across the music industry to discuss a petition calling for the government to seek a Europe-wide visa-free work permit for touring professionals and artists. Ian Smith, told me he founded UKEartswork in response to the lack of clear information for UK creatives about post Brexit travel and work arrangements. |