Committee publication · Special Report · 13 July 2026 · HC 549
2nd Special Report - Fan-led review of live and electronic music: Government response
Summary
This is the government's formal response to the Culture, Media and Sport Committee's April 2026 fan-led review of live and electronic music, published July 2026. The government accepts most recommendations, highlighting its new Music Plan, appointment of a Music Champion, and commitment to action across ticketing transparency, grassroots support, safety, accessibility and fan representation. It commits to specific measures including a ticketing bill draft, strengthened planning protections for venues, and £45 million in Music Growth funding.
Key findings
- Government accepts recommendation for data research on underrepresented music genres; DCMS working with ONS to update UK Standard Industrial Classification and commissioning new research on recording studios.
- Government committed to publishing draft ticketing bill in current parliamentary session, including price caps on resales, fee caps, and volume limits to combat touting.
- £1 voluntary levy on arena/stadium events over 5,000 capacity is delivering £500,000 initial funding to grassroots; government prepared to legislate if uptake remains inadequate.
- Agent of Change principle being strengthened in National Planning Policy Framework guidance; MHCLG consulting on wording changes and will write to all local planning authorities.
- Government backing 'All In' accessibility scheme and Attitude is Everything's Live Events Access Charter rather than creating separate kitemark framework; rejecting Music Fans Association proposal but agreeing on need for diverse fan insights in policy.
Government position
The government accepts or partially accepts nearly all recommendations. It accepts the principle of fan-led policy but prefers industry-led delivery on fan associations rather than government-established bodies. On ticketing legislation, it commits to draft bill in current session after industry input. On grassroots levies, it supports voluntary approach backed by willingness to legislate. On planning and licensing, it is actively strengthening protections for grassroots venues. On accessibility, it backs existing schemes (All In, Attitude is Everything Charter) rather than creating new mandatory kitemarks. The overall stance is collaborative and delivery-focused, with the appointment of Michael Dugher as Music Champion to bridge industry and government.
Tone
ProceduralTopics
Key actors
Dame Caroline Dinenage, Lord Brennan of Canton, Michael Dugher, Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Competition and Markets Authority, Arts Council England, Music Venue Trust, Ticketmaster
Notable line
“We are fully committed to implementing these measures but we have heard clearly from industry the need to get this right.”
Key Quotes
“Music is central to economic growth, and unlocking its full potential is a core pillar of our Industrial Strategy.”
“We are determined to protect fans and destroy the business model of industrial-scale touts once and for all.”
“If needed, we are clear that we are prepared to explore legislative options to support this industry initiative and ensure the sustainability of our world- leading live music industry.”
“The government recognises that the 'Agent of Change' principle is vital for a healthy music ecosystem, protecting venues from noise complaints while also safeguarding new residents …”
“Every fan, artist, and staff member has the right to create, perform, and enjoy live music in a safe, respectful, and dignified environment.”
Source · parliament.uk record ↗