The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) welcomes the publication of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee’s report on Cultural Touring in the EU, to which the ABO gave oral evidence, and which recognises the barriers that continue to affect the sector.

Europe remains the UK orchestral sector’s largest and closest international market. Touring creates opportunities and income, builds orchestras’ international profile, supports UK soft power and enables investment back into activity and growth across the UK. However, continued barriers to touring risk limiting these benefits.

Judith Webster, Chief Executive of the Association of British Orchestras, said: “UK orchestras continue to maintain strong demand and strong cultural relationships across Europe, but unnecessary friction makes touring harder and more expensive than it needs to be. Resolving cultural touring barriers should be on the agenda at the next UK–EU Summit, alongside a clear joint commitment and practical plan to improve touring conditions and support sustainable international exchange.”

Recent coverage marking ten years since the referendum, including Channel 4’s reporting on Brexit’s continuing economic effects, has highlighted the impact of new touring barriers on orchestras and how the sector is responding to maintain European activity.