Labour Government Told to Ban Concert Ticket Resale Above Face Value Immediately
The Labour government has been urged to ban the resale of concert tickets above their original face value "without delay" as part of a comprehensive review of the live and electronic music sector commissioned by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee. This significant report also prompted strong calls for the establishment of a Government and industry-backed Music Fan Association, modeled on similar organizations created for football supporters, to give music enthusiasts a stronger voice in the industry.
Fans' Charter with 50 Recommendations to Transform Live Music
The review committee has presented a detailed fans' charter containing 50 specific recommendations designed to improve the entire live music ecosystem. Review chairman Lord Brennan emphasized that fans across all music genres have expressed feeling "neglected and ripped off" by current industry practices. He stated that sharp commercial tactics and impersonal service have become too common in the music world, indicating an industry that fails to properly respect its most vital component: the fans themselves.
The proposed charter outlines practical and achievable steps that all stakeholders—from ticketing platforms and venues to artists, promoters, managers, and local councils—can implement to secure the long-term future of live music in the United Kingdom. Key recommendations include establishing a proper representative body to increase fan influence and ending what many describe as the "ticketing rip-off" that has plagued concert-goers for years.
Specific Measures to Protect Music Fans
The charter contains several specific provisions aimed at creating a fairer ticketing environment:
- The Labour government should ensure tiered ticket pricing is "clearly communicated in advance and applied transparently"
- The music industry must continue to "resist the introduction of dynamic surge pricing" models
- The government should mandate "clear, upfront information" from sellers regarding ticket refund policies
- Introduction of a mandatory levy on larger events to benefit grassroots venues, festivals, promoters, and emerging artists
- Venues should be required to provide free earplugs and drinking water to attendees
The report highlighted that fans participating in the review expressed widespread negative perceptions of major online ticketing platforms. Many felt these large agencies did not treat fans fairly, that ticket prices were excessively high, and that insufficient action was being taken to address issues with automated bots and online ticket touts who exploit the system.
Government Response and Future Plans
A DCMS spokesperson responded to the review findings, stating: "We thank the committee for their report and will consider its findings carefully. The Government shares the ambition of the committee to ensure that live music and its fans thrive in the UK."
The spokesperson confirmed that the government will soon publish a comprehensive Music Plan that brings together all governmental efforts to support the music industry. This plan will include a substantial £30 million Music Growth Package designed to support domestic growth, talent development, and music exports. Additionally, the government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing decisive plans announced last year to "stamp out touting once and for all" for the benefit of both fans and the industry as a whole.
Lord Brennan concluded with a powerful call to action: "From improving access for disabled gig-goers and enhancing venue safety to establishing proper fan representation and ending unfair ticketing practices, it's time for everyone involved in music to turn the volume dial up to 11 in favor of the fans."
