A petition is calling for the government to extend support for UK nightlife

A petition has been launched calling for the UK government to extend its financial support of the nightlife industry. At the time of writing, it has more than 38,000 signatures.

Titled “Let Us Dance - Support nightclubs, dance music events and festivals”, the petition notes: “The government has failed to provide specific support to UK festivals, dance venues and nightclubs. COVID-19 has hit hard on the nightlife sector having a major impact due to the suspension of mass gatherings.

“Followed by unclear guidelines and a lack of commitment from the government, this has contributed to growing uncertainty within the arts sector, putting at risk millions of jobs. The government must make clear its commitment to ensuring the dance community survives the pandemic.”

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Speaking to Sky News, government minister Gillian Keegan gave little cause for optimisme little cause for optimism for the nightlife industry getting back on its feet anytime soon, saying: "It is hard to see how nightclubs will open until we have some kind of long-term way to deal with coronavirus.”

On the same news segment, Fat Tony criticised the government’s lack of support for nightlife, saying: "Just to say 'that's disposable and we'll leave that on ice' and let a million people lose their jobs is despicable”.

Sign the petition here.