Thank you to all who have contacted me about Brixton Academy, a music venue in Lambeth.

As many will know, Brixton Academy had its licence rescinded following a fatal crowd crush in December 2022. This was a truly tragic incident, and my deepest sympathies go to those injured and to the family and friends of those whose lives were lost. A police investigation into the incident is currently underway. It has recently been confirmed that the venue’s license will be reinstated once it has met an extensive series of conditions designed to ensure safety, including stronger doors, new crowd management systems, more detailed risk assessments, a new ticketing system, a new centralised control and command centre as well as new security and management at the venue.

I am aware that concerns have been raised over the impact of Brixton Academy on the UK music scene and cultural economy. Recent reports have argued that international bands have opted not to perform in the UK while on world tours due to the temporary closure of the venue.

The creative industries are very important to our economy, and I believe that the music sector is a key part of our global success. In my opinion, the lack of Government action over touring post-Brexit is disincentivising international musicians from performing in the UK. Similarly, I am worried that UK-based musicians are being held back from the opportunities of touring Europe. I want to see these visa issues addressed, with an EU-wide agreement for touring musicians including allowances for equipment and instrument transport, and custom rules. Otherwise, I fear that our international reputation may be damaged.

More widely, I remain deeply concerned that many venues across the UK are struggling economically and being left in dire straits. Community music venues are hugely important – they foster homegrown talent and boost the local economy. I want to see these much-loved cultural assets supported and continuing to provide joy and connection for people from all walks of life.

Please see below a statement from Florence Eshalomi, MP for Vauxhall, on the matter:

“A critical incident occurred at the O2 Academy Brixton 15 December 2022. Emergency Services were called in response to a sizeable crowd trying to enter the venue. Eight people were taken by ambulance to hospital because of crushing. Sadly, two people lost their lives and my thoughts and prayers remain with the families of Rebecca Ikumelo and Gaby Hutchinson as they adjust to this unimaginable loss.

This is a deeply concerning incident and turned an experience which should have been a celebration into a very sad day.  The Metropolitan Police, Lambeth Council and the Security Industry Authority have all launched investigations to establish the facts of what happened.

As the local Member of Parliament, I believe we must recognise the gravity of what happened and the impact it has had on the community.  I support the venue to re-open but only when it is responsible to do so, when the full facts of the tragic loss of life is fully established and any necessary steps have been taken, so that we can ensure that an incident like this will never happen again.

 This is a complex investigation involving different relevant authorities. Contrary to speculation, please be aware that any verdict from the Licensing Committee relates only to the current premise licence holder and does not make judgment on the permanent future of the venue.”

Thank you once again to all who have contacted me about this issue.