​UK government calls for evidence from victims of sexual assault in the music industry

The UK government is urging victims of sexual assault in the music industry to come forward, particularly if they have signed NDAs to silence their allegations in the past.

It comes as part of an inquiry into misogyny in the music industry raised by the Women and Equalities Committee, which seeks to “understand the extent to which non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) are used specifically to silence victims.”

The Committee is looking for written evidence from victims of sexual assault, abuse, or gender-based discrimination who "have signed or have experience of non-disclosure agreements" in the industry, up until November 30. Submit here.

The inquiry is heavily backed by former BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac, who previously spoke with MPs about sexual abuse cases in the music industry claiming an "unbelievable" number of stories have not yet emerged.

The DJ and presenter spoke to a House of Commons committee in September claiming that the music industry has a “tidal wave” of sexual abuse cases, calling the industry “a boys’ club” which is “rigged against women”.

The government has assured that any evidence received cannot be used as evidence in legal proceedings due to Parliament’s powers of privilege, and therefore legal action cannot be taken against a person for sharing information.

Evidence provided will not be made public, they confirmed. The government is looking into the motivations for creating and signing an NDA, and the circumstances of individual NDAs including the roles of those involved.

They will also look into the efforts made to report inappropriate behaviour before an NDA was reached, and whether they may have been used in cases where behaviour might be criminal.

Find out more about the government’s inquiry into misogyny in the music industry here.

AFEM sponsor a confidential support service for anyone affected by sexual harassment within the Electronic Music Industry

Health Assured provide the service to ensure confidential expert counselling and a safe and supportive environment for anyone who has been affected and needs guidance and support. Call 0800 030 5182, (Outside the UK: +44 800 030 5182) where trained experts will listen and support.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter