Don Foster: Live music licensing regulation will strengthen the British music scene.
Originally published by UK Liberal Democrats
"Private members' bills are rarely passed, and it's even rarer that they do so with the unanimous support of every MP as happened today.
"The current system has had a deadening effect on the performance of live music in small venues. At the moment, the landlord of a small pub could face a big fine and imprisonment for letting a customer play a piano without a licence.
"The support received this afternoon from all MPs from all political parties just goes to show how important live music is in our country and the overwhelming support for changing our obstructive licensing laws.
"We're now only one step away from the Bill becoming law and creating an even more vibrant and successful live music culture. This will benefit hundreds of small pubs, restaurants, schools, churches and community halls, and strengthen the British music scene immensely."