Extract from Scottish Parliament Stage 3 debate on the Coronavirus (Extension and Expiry) (Scotland) Bill - June 24

Pauline McNeill (Glasgow) (Lab):...There are literally thousands of young bands and musicians who not only make a living from music but suffer because they cannot perform. It is what they love and, unfortunately, in many cases, not performing brings mental health issues with it.

We did not run a pilot or test event, which we could have done. Some cities have done so, as did the Download Festival, which ran as a pilot from 18-20 June. I hope that the cabinet secretary appreciates that tens of thousands of musicians, performers, publicans and music venues—the whole sector—would be delighted if the Government continued to acknowledge that we require clarity on the easing of restrictions and the mitigations that were talked about yesterday...

To read the whole debate, CLICK HERE