Regulation changes make it easier for pubs to stage live music
It will be easier for pubs and clubs to stage live music, following the removal from today of several regulations governing the practice.
The reforms are part of a wider Government strategy to cut red tape, including the Red Tape Challenge, which invited the public, business and the voluntary sector to give their views on which regulations should stay, be improved, or be scrapped altogether.
As a result, live unamplified music performed in any location, and live amplified music in on-licensed premises and workplaces for audiences of up to 200 people will no longer need a specific licence between 8am and 11pm.
Other changes to regulations include:
â- Removing legislation that dictates the precise location and design of no-smoking signs in workplaces.
Business minister Michael Fallon said: "From today, businesses are freed from the red tape that holds them back. We are ending over-the-top bureaucracy that stifles community groups and pubs wanting to put on small events, scrapping pointless rules about no-smoking signs, and saving businesses millions per year through more proportionate accounting rules.
"But this is just the start - we've set ourselves the challenging target of scrapping or reducing a total of 3,000 regulations. I'm determined to slim down regulation and make Britain an easier place to start and run a business."
Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) said: "This is a very welcome change, as live music is hugely important to pubs and musicians, many of whom begin performing in their local pub.
"Ever since the two-in-a-bar rule was lost in the Licensing Act 2003, the BBPA has been pressing for change. I would urge local authorities to remove any unnecessary conditions on live music in pubs.
"We need to reduce the red tape burden, as pubs are at the heart of local communities, vital for economic recovery and creating local jobs."
By Neil Gerrard
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