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Closed Provide funding and relief to support struggling independent music venues

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We call on the Government to provide funding, such as dedicated grants, to support struggling independent venues. We also urge the Government to provide relief to these venues, by reforming business rates and treating them like other cultural institutions, such as theatres.

The Music Venues Trust said 125 grassroots venues closed in 2023. Rising energy costs, rent, and business rates have been key factors in this. The live music sector provides billions of pounds to the UK economy, with small venues nurturing possible future stars. We believe these spaces aren’t just stages—they create jobs, unite communities, and give young people access to affordable culture. Without action, we are concerned we may risk losing the heart of our music scene.

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  • Related activity

    Fan-led review of music: MPs want to hear from you

    MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee have launched a fan-led review of music.

    Answer their survey.

    To inform their inquiry, they would like to hear about your experiences, including:
    - The provision of live music
    - The sustainability of music venues
    - Barriers to touring faced by emerging artists
    - How the government can support live music

    Answer their survey.

    What happens next?

    Your responses will inform the Committee’s understanding and work on this issue.

    At the end of the inquiry, it will publish a report with recommendations for the Government.

    The Department for Culture, Media and Sport must then respond to the report.

    What is the Culture, Media and Sport Committee?

    The Committee is a group of MPs from different political parties. It looks at the work of the government department responsible for culture, media and sport.

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  • Related activity

    Business rates relief: MP wants to hear from you

    On 4 June, Sir Gavin Williamson MP will lead a debate on the impact of changes to business rates relief on high street businesses.

    To inform the debate, he would like to hear from you.

    Share your views by midday on 3 June.

    He may quote your response in his debate in Parliament.

    From 4 June, you can:

    • Watch the debate
    • Read the transcript
    • See other relevant material.

    Just use the link above.

    Explainer

    Westminster Hall debates give MPs an opportunity to debate a topic of their choice, and receive a response from the Government.

    They are a way to:

    • raise awareness of an issue
    • seek to influence government policy
    • put the views of backbench MPs, political parties, and the Government on record.

    They do not involve a vote on a particular action or decision.

    Visual explainer: Westminster Hall debates

  • Petition published

    This petition can now be signed.

    If this petition gets 10,000 signatures, government will respond to it.

    If this petition gets 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.

    This petition will stay open until 4 October 2025.