The government is facing urgent calls to ban the resale of concert tickets above face value, a key recommendation from a parliamentary review into the live and electronic music sectors. The Culture, Media and Sport Committee has pressed for this measure to be implemented 'without delay'.
Beyond ticket touting, the report advocates for the creation of a government and industry-backed Music Fan Association, drawing parallels with existing structures for football supporters. It also insists on a commitment to a comprehensive fans' charter, outlining 50 recommendations aimed at improving the live music industry.
Speaking at a launch event at Le Pub live music venue in Newport, review chairman Lord Brennan said: 'Over the last year we’ve given a voice to fans of all different music types and genres from across the country, and they’ve told us loud and clear that often they feel neglected and ripped off.' He added that 'sharp commercial practices and impersonal service are now all too prevalent' and that the new fans' charter sets out a 'practical and achievable way ahead'.
Recommendations include ensuring tiered ticket pricing is 'clearly communicated in advance and applied transparently', and that the industry continues to 'resist the introduction of dynamic surge pricing'. The report also calls for clear upfront information on refund policies, a mandatory levy on larger events to benefit grassroots venues, and requirements for venues to provide free earplugs and drinking water.
The review, which surveyed thousands of music fans, found that changing ticket prices led to 'heightened levels of stress, fear of missing out and pressure to make unaffordable decisions'. It also recommends that venues publish clear start and finish times for sets, allocate a minimum of 2% of capacity to wheelchair accessible spaces, and establish a code of conduct for behaviour at gigs.
