Pub live music boost

Pubs with a capacity under 100 could host live music without having the provision in their licence under new Government plans.

However, residents and responsible authorities such as the police could call for an exemption to be revoked if there were concerns. It would apply to indoor performances that take place between 8am and 11pm.

It follows lobbying from the music and pub industry to make it easier to stage live music, following the end of the two-in-a-bar rule with the introduction of the Licensing Act.

It represents a victory as the Department for Culture, Media and Sport had previously said it favoured reducing the threshold to 200 people but Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said the Government would consider going further.

The new powers to revoke licences follow fears of extra noise and nuisance expressed by the Local Government Association.

Sutcliffe said: "Going to see a band, musician or singer is a very important part of many people's lives and we're keen to do what we can to support audiences and musicians.

"An exemption for venues with 100 people or fewer would benefit many small venues, particularly unlicensed premises such as village halls and cafes, which may currently be put off by licensing requirements.

"But we are also proposing that the exemption can be revoked at individual premises if there have been problems with noise, nuisance or disorder."

Martin Rawlings, director of pub and leisure at the British Beer and Pub Association, said: "The BBPA welcomes any measures that can help pubs overcome existing barriers to putting on live music, helping aspiring and established musicians to reach audiences while at the same time boosting business, particularly during these difficult economic times."

View the consultation on the plan, which closes on 26 March, here​.