A recent report by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee has called on the Government to act swiftly in banning the resale of concert tickets above their face value. This recommendation comes as part of a comprehensive review into the live and electronic music sectors, aiming to safeguard fans and improve the overall concert experience.
The committee’s chairman, Lord Brennan, stressed the urgency: “Fans from all genres have consistently told us they feel neglected and exploited by current ticketing practices.” He highlighted the prevalence of sharp commercial tactics and impersonal service that leave fans—the heart of the music industry—feeling undervalued.
Central to the report is the proposal for a Government and industry-backed Music Fan Association, modeled after successful football fan organizations. This group would amplify fan voices and help enforce a newly proposed fans’ charter with 50 clear recommendations designed to revitalize live music.
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Key among these recommendations is the call for Labour to implement transparent tiered ticket pricing and to resist dynamic surge pricing models that inflate costs unfairly. The report also criticizes major online ticketing platforms, noting fans’ dissatisfaction with exorbitant prices, lack of fairness, and inadequate measures against bots and touts.
Additional suggestions include mandating sellers to provide clear upfront information on refund policies, introducing a levy on large events to support grassroots venues and emerging artists, and requiring venues to offer free earplugs and drinking water.
In response, a DCMS spokesperson thanked the committee for the report and confirmed the Government’s commitment to nurturing a thriving UK music scene. Plans are underway to publish a Music Plan supported by a £30 million Music Growth Package aimed at talent development and industry growth. The Government also reaffirmed its determination to eliminate ticket touting to protect fans and ensure fair access.