The NCA is seeking members’ comments on its draft response to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) latest consultation on the Licensing Act, which proposes to exempt live music events for audiences of not more than 100 people from the requirements of the Licensing Act 2003. DCMS envisage that the proposals will make it easier for both licensed premises such as clubs and pubs, and unlicensed premises such as cafes, restaurants, scout huts, record shops, etc. to stage small, live music events. Furthermore, musicians will benefit, since the greater availability of venues will offer them a platform to perform and to be heard.

The NCA broadly agrees with the proposals outlined in the consultation but has suggested a number of amendments. First, we would like to see the audience capacity enlarged from the suggested 100 to 200, as recommended by the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee Report into the issue. Second, concerning the prohibition of exempt performances between 11pm and 8am, the NCA suggests that this is fair, but also that it is reasonable to extend this restriction to 12am (midnight) and 8 am on a Saturday night.

The NCA would welcome feedback from members. The draft response can be read here.  

The DCMS consultation closes on Friday 26 March, so members who wish to comment on the draft should respond to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it by noon on Wednesday 24 March. 

In related news, Lord Clement-Jones’ Live Music Bill has been scheduled for a second reading in the House of Commons on 26 March. The NCA had written to all MPs, urging them to make time to debate the Bill. More information about the Live Music Bill can be found here.