News story

Government plans to slash live entertainment red tape

Following the Red Tape Challenge, Minister vows to reduce ’pointless bureaucracy’ for smaller events.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Ministers have today announced proposals to scrap parts of the Licensing Act 2003.

Under the current terms, people have to apply and sometimes pay for licences for events with little or no risk of trouble including school plays, brass bands in public parks and Punch and Judy shows.

A consultation paper published today looks at all currently licensable activities and asks what would happen if the activity no longer required a licence. Where there is no good reason to continue with the existing regime, the Government will look to abolish it.

Promoting growth and unlocking new talent

Tourism Minister John Penrose said deregulation would help new talent to emerge and promote economic growth.

“Current entertainment licensing rules are a mess,” the Minister said. “Pointless bureaucracy and licence fees imposed on community groups trying to put on simple amateur productions and fundraising events sap energy and deaden people’s desire to get involved. Deregulation here will also make it easier for new talent to get started and help pubs diversify into other activities to help weather the present tough economic climate.”

The consultation will aim to get the views of those working in the industry to ensure the prevention of public nuisance, the protection of children from harm and to maintain public safety. Ministers confirmed there will be no relaxation of the rules controlling gatherings of more than 5,000 people, boxing and wrestling, and things classed as sexual entertainment.

Industry support

The proposed changes have already received wide support in the worlds of music and entertainment. Feargal Sharkey, Chief Executive of UK Music, said he was “delighted” at this “forward-thinking approach”, while Christina Payne, General Secretary of Equity, praised the move as “a visionary solution”.  Groups representing PTAs, the tourism industry and voluntary arts groups have added their voices to the list of those in favour of the move. 

Red Tape Challenge

The proposals follow the Government’s Red Tape Challenge for the hospitality industries. The ongoing project is asking those involved in different sectors of the UK economy to identify regulations that are holding back growth and stifling their chances of success.

Further information

Published 6 October 2011