Get the latest gossip
Imelda Staunton and Olivia Colman call for urgent political support for the arts
Exclusive: Actors call for all parties to back investment as figures suggest 16% cuts since 2017
Staunton said: “We’re living in a golden age of drama, especially on streaming platforms, thanks to the exceptional ability of the UK arts workforce to bring world-class storytelling to global audiences. Photograph: Alex Bailey/APThe Bafta and Olivier award-winning actor, who has starred in the likes of Vera Drake, Harry Potter and The Crown, added: “With proper funding, there is no limit to the potential for the arts to inspire and entertain, encouraging both human creativity and economic benefits. They are also asking for an end to the legal exemption that allows casting directories to charge upfront fees to performing artists; a reform of universal credit to provide freelancers with the same protections as the employed; a requirement that all publicly funded work be produced on Equity agreements; and an extension to trade union-bargained royalties to areas like video games and TV commercials.
Or read this on The Guardian
