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Written question asked by Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 February 2026. It was answered by Dan Tomlinson (Labour) on Thursday, 12 February 2026 on behalf of the Treasury.

Musicians: National Insurance

Question

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how many A1 form applications from touring musicians were outstanding at the end of each year since 2021.

Answer

The Government recognises the importance of touring to the UK’s world‑leading music sector and continues to work closely with industry to support musicians performing in the European Union.

A1 Forms

HMRC has not made an estimate, jointly or separately with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), of any additional costs incurred by musicians as a result of delays in the issuance of A1 forms since 2021.

While musicians may use the CA3837 A1 application form, this form is also used by many other self‑employed individuals. HMRC does not record applicants’ occupations within the A1 process, and the systems used do not capture or store any information that would allow us to identify touring musicians as a distinct group. It is therefore not possible to provide data on processing times or outstanding applications specifically for musicians for any of the years requested.

HMRC recognises how important it is for customers to receive their A1 certificates promptly and is strengthening the service to support this.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
111034
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Forms National insurance Musicians
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk