Lib Dem peer Lord Clement-Jones’s Live Music Bill, which has the backing of the Musicians’ Union and UK Music, will be debated in the House of Lords later today.
The bill aims to amend the Licensing Act to make it easier for musicians to perform in small venues by proposing a Licensing exception for venues with a capacity of 200 or less and reinstating the two-in-the-bar rule, so they don’t need a licence to host acts with two or fewer performers.
The Government’s 2003 Licensing Act means all live musical performances must have a licence or the organisers risk criminal prosecution with a potential 6 months in prison or £20,000 fine.
Lord Clement-Jones, who believes his Bill would also help boost local pub trade, says he expects a smooth ride for the second reading before it goes towards the next stages of the legislative process.
Lord Clement-Jones said: “The Government says live music must be licensed to prevent public disorder. But pubs don’t need a licence to show a live football match on TV. Do they really think people who listen to live music are more of a threat to public order than football fans?
“Small venues are vitally important to Britain’s creative culture. Many successful musicians got their first break gigging in pubs or student unions. But, he says the cost and time of applying for a licence means fewer small spaces are prepared to put on live music.
Without the proposed changes, Clement-Jones adds that “we risk suffocating our live music scene in red tape. The Government is out of tune with the live music scene.”
Lord Clement-Jones, who believes his Bill would also help boost local pub trade, says he expects a smooth ride for the second reading before it goes towards the next stages of the legislative process.
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