Urgent Call for Ban on Ticket Resale Above Face Value
A comprehensive review of the live events industry has issued a stark warning: the government must introduce a ban on reselling gig tickets above their face value "without delay". This move aims to curb the exploitative practices of ticket touts, who often use automated software to snap up tickets rapidly, leaving genuine fans priced out of popular events.
Government Pledge and Delayed Action
Last year, the government pledged to implement this ban to prevent consumers from spending excessive amounts, but no specific start date has been announced. The new report, commissioned by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, explicitly states: "The government should introduce legislation to ban the resale of tickets above face value without delay and ensure it is robustly enforced." This delay has sparked frustration among music enthusiasts and industry stakeholders alike.
Fans' Charter and Industry Recommendations
The report outlines 50 recommendations as part of a new Fans' Charter designed to enhance the live music sector. Key proposals include:
- Ensuring ticket pricing is clearly communicated in advance and applied transparently.
- Urging the industry to resist dynamic surge pricing, where ticket prices fluctuate based on demand, a practice that angered Oasis fans during recent comeback gigs.
- Addressing negative perceptions of major online ticketing platforms, with fans feeling unfairly treated and concerned about high prices and inadequate action against bots and touts.
Additionally, venues are advised to publish clear set times for events to aid fan planning and to provide free earplugs and drinking water. The report also advocates for the establishment of a Music Fan Association, similar to existing bodies for football fans, to amplify consumer voices.
Voices from the Review
Lord Brennan, chairman of the review, emphasized the findings during a launch event in Newport, south Wales: "Over the last year we’ve given a voice to fans... and they’ve told us loud and clear that often they feel neglected and ripped off." He criticized the prevalence of sharp commercial practices and impersonal service, calling for industry-wide adoption of the Fans' Charter to secure the future of live music.
Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the CMS Committee, added: "For too long, the views of fans have been treated as background noise... Today’s recommendations show the potential of putting power in the hands of those that truly understand and love live music."
Consumer and Government Responses
Lisa Webb, a consumer law expert at Which?, highlighted the urgency: "Ticket touts have exploited fans for long enough... A price cap is within reach, so the Prime Minister must seize the opportunity by including this legislation in the upcoming King's Speech."
In response, a Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson acknowledged the report, stating: "We thank the committee for their report and will consider its findings carefully... We set out decisive plans last year to stamp out touting once and for all, and we are committed to delivering on these as soon as possible." The government also mentioned an upcoming Music Plan, including a £30m Music Growth Package to support the industry.
Background and Future Steps
This review stems from earlier concerns about grassroots music venues, with the committee previously addressing financial struggles in the sector. When initial recommendations were not adopted, Lord Brennan was tasked with this independent assessment. The report underscores the critical need for legislative action to protect fans and ensure a sustainable live music ecosystem, urging all stakeholders to engage with its findings promptly.
