DCMS is running another consultation on the Licensing Act, which proposes to “exempt small live music events for audiences of not more than 100 people from the requirements of the Licensing Act 2003 relating to the licensing of live music as regulated entertainment under the Act. “ It is hoped that this exemption will benefit small venues that wish to hold live music events, but are deterred by the licensing requirements and costs, as well as musicians who may find more opportunities to perform. As well as presenting an increased opportunity for the wider public to hear live music, the exemption is expected to make a number of administrative savings. People and organisations that currently use Temporary Event Notices to put on live music on an occasional basis, and licensed venues that put on small live music events for no more than 100 people are subject to a burden that the proposal will lift. It is estimated that this administrative saving could be around £406K - £881k per year. It is also estimated that there will be fee savings of around £379K - £503K. The full consultation can be viewed here.

The NCA is pleased that the Government is evaluating the Licensing Act, but wholly agrees with the corresponding proposals in Lord Clement-Jones’ Live Music Bill which defines a small live music event as one with an audience up to 200. The Live Music Bill, and information about it, can be viewed here.

We will be responding to the DCMS consultation, and ask members to send evidence which will inform our draft response to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it by Wednesday 10 March. We will then distribute our draft response for comment before submitting a final response to DCMS, before it closes on 26 March.