Licensing laws hitting small events
THE introduction of new licensing laws has had a negative impact on the live music industry, according to a new report. 
The report, published by the Independent Live Music Forum, states that some small scale live music events have been restricted or even cancelled due to the laws. 
The Forum states that the lack of clarity in the legislation combined with some over zealous local authorities are to blame and recommends that small music venues and those putting on acoustic gigs should not have to acquire a licence to stage live music. 
Live Music Forum chairman Feargal Sharkey said: “The UK’s live music scene is a massive success – just look at the growth in summer music festivals and the speed at which events sell out. But the Government needs to do more to help grass roots musicians and particularly small venues. 
“Of course public events do need to be properly controlled, but we believe that a pub putting on an acoustic folk trio, for example, should not need a licence. That small acoustic gig does not impact on crime, disorder or public safety so should not fall under the remit of the licensing laws. 
“And we think more can be done to encourage grass roots musicians such as creating more rehearsal rooms, putting universities back on the live music circuit and creating a database of live venues.” 
The task of The Forum, which was set up in 2004, was chosen by the Government to ensure as many venues as possible took advantage of the new licensing laws, to monitor the Licensing Act’s impact on live music and to make recommendations to Government on how it might further bolster the UK’s live music industry.