21 April 2021
Harriett Calls for Support to Re-Start Music Festivals

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has called on the Government to act to help live music events to restart by introducing an insurance support scheme for organisers.

Live events are not able to re-start at the moment because they are unable to get insurance against coronavirus cancellations. Events such as Glastonbury have already been postponed because they could not get cover.

Harriett has joined a group of 43 MPs who have written to the Prime Minister calling for him to introduce a Government-backed reinsurance scheme which will help event organisers to get cover.

The scheme would run similar to the Flood Re scheme, introduced in 2013, which helps home-owners to get flood insurance when providers are unwilling to offer cover.

Harriett said: “Our local tourist economy relies on a number of major festivals and outdoor live events and it has been sad to see events like the popular Spring Show being cancelled.

“Although the Government has offered significant funding to protect culture and heritage businesses, what they all need now is paying customers, not handouts.

“By delivering a bespoke insurance package, organisers will have the confidence to plan for the future and bring entertainment back into our lives.

“The Government should feel confident doing this because the vaccination programme is working well and the timetable for reopening is on track.

“It is essential that, once we pass the June 21 deadline, we are able to get back to as near normal as possible and get back to doing the things we love.

“I’m already planning to visit a number of music festivals this summer and I hope that the Government will help to make this a reality for us all.”