SNP MSP Emma Roddick has claimed that the UK’s exit from the EU has harmed the chances of young people in the region from being able to take up roles in the arts.

Speaking in the Scottish Parliament last month, Emma said:

“Scotland voted overwhelmingly to stay in the EU, but was dragged out by decisions made in England by a government we also didn’t vote for.

“Funding, free movement, and, fundamentally, opportunities, have been removed from young musicians in Scotland as a result.

“Musicians in the region have long punched above their weight, achieving incredible things and proving popular across the world. It is such a shame to hear that young people may now be avoiding taking on musical education because they can already see the impact of Brexit: doors have been closed on them and the sector has been torn apart.

“We continue to offer free music tuition in Scotland, and I have pressed the Scottish Government to continue to support young people in the arts as much as possible within our constraints – this is an important piece of Scottish culture we simply cannot afford to lose.”