The Creative Industries Federation has criticised the UK government's decision not to ban group gatherings due to coronavirus, as it could restrict the ability of creative organisations to claim compensation.
The national membership organisation that represents companies in the UK?s creative industries believes that the decision to advise social distancing rather than implement a ban on gatherings of people could severely financially damage cultural organisations and creative companies.
"The advice issued by government today is a crippling blow to the UK's creative industries," said Caroline Norbury, CEO of the Creative Industries Federation.
Yesterday, UK prime minister Boris Johnston announced a range of recommendations aimed at reducing people's contact with each other to slow the spread of coronavirus Covid-19. As part of the measures, he recommended people avoid crowded places such as pubs, museums and theatres. "Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others," said Johnson. "You should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues."
"These measures have the potential to devastate"
However, unlike many countries in Europe, the UK government has not banned large-scale events or gatherings, a move that the Creative Industries Federation believes will reduce the possibility for organisations to claim compensation.
"As the social distancing measures announced this afternoon are only advisory...