The U.K government is looking to help arts and entertainments industries with a new relief package worth £1.57 billion. The move follows a similar one from the German government, who allocated a €150 million grant of a €1 billon relief fund to music venues.
Amid ongoing closures due to the coronavirus, the United Kingdom has created a £1.57 billion fund which combines grants and loans available to any company in the arts and entertainment industries affected by the shutdown. This includes music venues, galleries, indie cinemas, theaters and museums. Most of the payments will be grants that do not need to be paid back.
According to Kerrang!, culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said the package shows the "level of commitment" the government has for the arts saying “Our arts and culture are the soul of our nation. They make our country great and are the lynchpin of our world-beating and fast-growing creative industries. I understand the grave challenges the arts face and we must protect and preserve all we can for future generations.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson added “From iconic theatre and musicals, mesmerising exhibitions at our world-class galleries to gigs performed in local basement venues, the UK’s cultural industry is the beating heart of this country.
“This money will help safeguard the sector for future generations, ensuring arts groups and venues across the UK can stay afloat and support their staff whilst their doors remain closed and curtains remain down.”
Some in the opposing Labour party, fear it's too little too late, saying some venues are running out of time and need the money fast.
You can read more info on the package here.
The United States has yet to announce a similar package for its arts. Many indepedent venues across the country formed a coalition, the National Independent Venue Association, hoping to lobby state and federal governments for some aid, warning that many of the nation's venues will be forced to shut down if relief is not given.
[via MetalSucks]
