Scottish Greens call for ticket tax on mega-gigs to protect grassroots arts
Closing venues and news of cuts from Creative Scotland underline the urgent need for a small ticket levy to be applied to mega-gigs and stadium shows, say the Scottish Greens.
This summer has seen Taylor Swift, the Foo Fighters and Pink all performing in stadiums in Scotland. A £1 levy on those gigs alone would have raised £300k to support local venues and grassroots artists.
Figures from the Music Venue Trust show that the introduction of such a levy across Scotland would raise well over £1 million a year to support the sector.
The Scottish Greens culture spokesperson, Patrick Harvie MSP, said: “This is a really difficult time for grassroots arts and culture in Scotland. Venues all over our country are closing their doors while performers are losing opportunities and fans are missing out on fantastic experiences.
“We’ve had a summer of mega-gigs from some of the biggest bands and performers in the world. A small £1 charge on the tickets to those shows could have raised vital funds for an industry that is suffering.
“Stadium gigs are an important part of Scotland’s cultural scene, but they are not the only part. When venues are shutting and artists are struggling to make ends meet, it is a sign that things need to change.
“A stadium ticket levy would be an important step in the right direction and could help us to preserve some of the special venues and places that are struggling while supporting the artists, performers and fans who rely on them.
“Scotland’s musicians and artists have produced so many wonderful pieces and memories over the years. Their work has supported so many of us in difficult times. It is time for us to do the same for them.”