To amend the Licensing Act 2003 with respect to the performance of live music entertainment; and for connected purposes.
The purpose of the Live Music Bill is to amend the Licensing Act 2003 with respect to the performance of live music. The Bill would exempt certain types of venue, and of performance, from existing licensing requirements for the performance of live music. As a result, it would increase the number of places and performances not subject to such licenses, in order to widen access and to encourage the performance of live music.Key areasVenues authorised to supply alcohol with a capacity of less than 200 people, at which music would be performed between the hours of 8am and midnight, would no longer require a license for the performance of live music. Up to two performers would be able to perform live unamplified, or minimally amplified, music without the need for a license. Hospitals, hospital accommodation, schools and colleges would be able to host live music performances without the need for a licence.
House of Lords
13 April 2010
The Live Music Bill would change the Licensing Act 2003 to make it easier to perform live music. It would remove the licensing requirement for live music in small venues under 200 capacity that serve alcohol and host music between 8am and midnight; it would also permit up to two performers to play live with little or no amplification without a licence, and enable hospitals, hospital accommodation, schools and colleges to host live music without a licence.
The bill is currently at the second reading in the House of Commons and originated in the Lords.
Generated 21 February 2026
Third reading - the final chance for the Lords to change the Bill - took place on 9 February and no amendments were made.
This Bill was presented to the Commons on 9 February 2010. This is known as First Reading and there was no debate on the Bill at this stage.
The 2009-10 session of parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.
