Elton John

More than one hundred international stars from the music industry have attacked the Government’s Brexit deal over visa-free travel.

Artists from the world of pop to classical composers say performers have been “shamefully failed” by the post deal travel rules.

Even prominent Brexiteer Roger Daltry says there is a “gaping hole where the promised free movement for musicians should be”.

Other performers include Queen Brian May and Roger Taylor, Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters, Sting, and Liam Gallagher.

In a letter to The Times they write:

“The resulting costs for work permits and other red tape will make many tours unviable, especially for young emerging musicians who are already struggling to keep their heads above water owing to the Covid ban on live music.

“This negotiating failure will tip many performers over the edge.”

They urge the Government to “do what it said it would do” and negotiate paperwork-free travel to Europe for British artists and their equipment.

Culture minister Caroline Dinenage said the EU rejected the UK’s plan, but said the Government is willing to discuss the situation again.

Ms Dinenage said a 90-day visa-free travel period for musicians was not offered by the EU, contrary to earlier reports.