The Publishers Association (PA), the main organization in the U.K. representing the interests of publishers, has called on the government to keep barriers to trade "to an absolute minimum" and to publish a clear plan to minimize business uncertainty as it negotiates to leave the European Union.
Following a survey of members in trade, education and academic publishing, the PA has issued a manifesto setting out the priorities for the industry in the Brexit negotiations. They include:
- Legislate to create stronger copyright rules to encourage investment in the UK and to protect creators
- Ensure the UK research community remains a global leader by developing new strategies for domestic investment
- Ensure publishers and businesses have access to the people and skills they need, whilst taking into account the public's concerns about immigration
The manifesto also notes that the publishing industry has benefited from free movement in the EU.
PA chief executive Stephen Lotinga said: "The U.K. publishing industry is a great success both nationally and internationally, and it's essential that our concerns are at the forefront of these Brexit negotiations to make sure our voice is heard and success is not taken for granted."
He continued: "This manifesto sets out the industry's key priorities for the future, which include retaining access to the single market and ensuring that publishers continue to have access to the people and skills they need. There should also be no doubt that UK publishing will embrace the opportunities presented by leaving the EU, such as securing a stronger copyright framework. We will be meeting with Government departments, political parties, senior civil servants and key influencers in the coming months to discuss these priorities."
The results of the survey can be found here.
A version of this story originally appeared on the website BookBrunch.co.uk.
