Festivals Bill

What the bill does

A Bill to require the Secretary of State to enter into negotiations with the European Union for the purpose of agreeing a visa waiver for UK artists and musicians performing at festivals in EU member states; to make provision to facilitate the movement of artists and musicians, and of their equipment, between the EU and the UK to perform at festivals; to require the Secretary of State to publish a Festivals Strategy; and for connected purposes.

Progress through Parliament

What 2nd reading means, and what happens next

Second reading is the first full debate on the principle of the bill. The House votes on whether it should proceed at all.

If it passes, the bill goes to committee stage, where it is examined line by line and amendments are considered.

Read the full guide to this stage: What happens at second reading of a bill

Questions about the Festivals Bill

What stage is the Festivals Bill at?

The Festivals Bill is currently at 2nd reading in the UK Parliament.

Has the Festivals Bill become law?

Not yet. A bill becomes law only when it has passed both Houses and received Royal Assent. The Festivals Bill is currently at 2nd reading.

What happens next to the Festivals Bill?

If it passes, the bill goes to committee stage, where it is examined line by line and amendments are considered.

Who sponsored the Festivals Bill?

The Festivals Bill was sponsored by Max Wilkinson.

When was the Festivals Bill introduced?

It was introduced to Parliament on 25 June 2025, at first reading.

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