The government’s response to the industry-led Licensing Taskforce report has been welcomed by LIVE CEO Jon Collins and Music Venue Trust CEO Mark Davyd.
Among a list of 10 recommendations, the government said it “acknowledges the value in reviewing the licence length and fees for festivals and recognises the potential benefits of providing greater certainty and stability for recurring events, particularly in supporting long-term investment and planning”.
The list of recommendations also includes the creation of a National Licensing Policy Framework, and ‘amnesty’ to modernise and streamline licenses and the strengthening the ‘agent of change’ principle to ensure uniform application across local authorities.
"Music Venue Trust warmly welcomes the Government response to the report of the LIcensing Taskforce,” said Mark Davyd. “The recommendations put forward by the Taskforce are important steps in delivering licensing policy that is clear, common sense, and fair and reasonable. We strongly support the adoption of Agent of Change principles into licensing policy, reviews of grandfather clauses and a practical approach to temporary event notices, all of which are very practical ideas that will help to protect, secure and improve grassroots music venues.”
LIVE CEO Jon Collins said that the organisation, recently profiled in Music Week, was “delighted” to work with the government on the report.
“It’s great to see so many positive, business friendly measures being championed,” Collins said. “This rebalancing of the licensing regime will retain necessary protections while opening up new opportunities for venues, events and festivals. That will mean more joy, more vibrancy and, crucially, growth.”
Read our recent LIVE profile with Collins and Steve Lamacq here.
FOLLOW 
