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Reform planned for live music licences
Speaking at Modal 2002, the annual conference for the UK's non-mainstream music industry, Minister for Music, Kim Howells has pledged to make it easier for pubs to stage live musical events.
The current 'two musicians rule' only allows one or two musicians to perform in a pub without the landlord needing to obtain an entertainments licence. Howells wants to reform this law, and make it easier and less expensive for pubs to obtain permission to stage musical performances.
'I am committed to the modernisation of our archaic, and at times, wholly stupid, licensing laws,' said Howells. 'I want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience live music.'
Howells intends to bring a Bill modernising the licensing laws to parliament, and says: 'The reformed system will sweep away a great deal of current red tape, but it will still provide protection for customers and local residents who can be disturbed by excessive noise from the premises.'