House of Commons · Bill Debate
03 December 2021 · 13 other contributors
Opened by Kevin Brennan Lab Cardiff West
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Kevin Brennan raised concerns about musician's rights (equitable remuneration) bill - clause 1 - equitable remuneration for music streaming in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Moves the bill, which aims to extend existing Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 provisions to modernise the law for the new world of music streaming. It would provide performers on a recording with an unwaivable payment or equitable remuneration when their music is streamed, akin to the existing right in radio and broadcast. The bill also includes measures for transparency obligations, contract adjustment rights, and reclamation of music rights after 20 years.
Supports the Bill, highlighting its importance for musicians who contribute to thousands of records without receiving any payment from streaming services.
Agrees that artists receive only a fraction of what the big record labels get from streaming, emphasising the need for support not just for stars but also for emerging musicians facing high living costs.
Supports the Bill, seeing it as an important part of the levelling-up agenda by addressing the imbalance of power between big corporates and individuals/small businesses.
Asks if the Bill might increase income for some artists while causing others to see their income fall, expressing concerns about potential negative impacts.
Argues that UK musicians are devalued and ad-funded streaming services do not pay fairly for the music they use, suggesting these issues should be tackled.
Asks how the proposals would help in situations like Dame Vera Lynn's where contracts predate internet technology and do not provide royalties for streaming.
Questions whether equitable remuneration still applies to heirs of music estates, referring specifically to the case of Dame Vera Lynn.
The hon. Member recognised the importance of the music industry but disagreed with certain provisions in the Bill, particularly equitable remuneration and contract adjustments. He argued that streaming revenue is increasing for artists relative to labels and that labels invest heavily in finding and promoting talent. Interventions raised concerns about disparities between successful executives like Lucian Grainge and struggling artists.
Supports the idea that contract law should be revisited in cases where there is an imbalance of power, citing examples from financial services. Argues that artists are currently at a disadvantage due to unfair contracts and lack of fair remuneration.
Agrees with Rosie Winterton that there are instances where exploitative contracts should be addressed through legislation, referencing historical precedents in financial services.
Expresses concern that the proposed statutory measure could distort the market by discouraging new contracts due to potential future uncertainties, leading to a decrease in opportunities for artists.
Asserts that current imbalances in the market are fundamentally unfair and need correction. Supports breaking down monopolies to ensure fair remuneration for artists.
Reflects on past support given by MPs to the music industry during difficult times, highlighting the importance of fair remuneration for artists. Emphasises the value of creative processes and the need for proper reward in today's digitised world.