Live Music Bill

The Live Music Bill has completed its passage through Parliament, following a brief discussion of amendments made by the House of Commons.

Peers accepted the minor Commons amendments to the bill in the House of Lords on 27 January 2012.

The private member's bill, introduced by Liberal Democrat peer Lord Clement-Jones, would exempt small venues from having to obtain a licence to host live music.

Music venues with 200 people or fewer - such as pubs or cafes - would not have to apply for a live music licence.

Lord Clement-Jones argues that current laws are harming smaller venues and stifling creative talent.

The bill cleared committee stage in the House of Lords on 15 July 2011 and completed its remaining stages in the House of Commons on 20 January 2012.

The bill now proceeds to royal assent in order to become law.