FAC on COVID restrictions/LFTs

The removal of restrictions signals another step towards some normality for the music industry, however we remain concerned about artists and others in the sector who are clinically vulnerable and unable to return to live activity. Government must do more to support those who cannot work by extending access to COVID crisis funding to clinically vulnerable freelancers.

Our sector has published best practice guidance for making live activity as safe as possible. It encourages artists, crew and fans to take LFTs, so today's news that access to free tests is to be scrapped is completely counter productive in our efforts to keep live music open. Evidence of a negative test still represents the best method of ensuring events operate safely and we would encourage their use even when not mandated.

David Martin, CEO, Featured Artists Coalition