A ￡750m insurance scheme set up by the UK government to support live entertainment during the pandemic has only covered a small number of events, despite the cancellation of shows from Moulin Rouge to Coldplay due to Covid outbreaks.

The government-backed scheme provides cover to event organisers for lost expenses if they are forced to cancel due to lockdown measures. But it does not pay out if artists or production staff catch Covid — a problem that has already caused the cancellation of gigs and shows in the run-up to Christmas.

Coldplay and Lil Nas X pulled out of performances this month after members of their touring party caught Covid. The Libertines, Paul Weller, Steps and Jessie Ware have also been forced to postpone gigs in recent weeks due to the virus. The West End production of Moulin Rouge! has also cancelled performances.