LIVE Manifesto: setting out our advocacy priorities.

It is no secret that, currently, it is at the grassroots that the challenges in our sector are most severe, but the industry is also dealing with issues such as an internationally uncompetitive VAT rate, an unfair system of business rates, barriers to international touring, well-intentioned but ill-formed legislation on safety at venues, and ticketing issues, all while navigating the transition to net zero. Read and share the full Manifesto here

1. Unleash the economic potential of live music 

  • Retention of Business Rates Relief for grassroots, hospitality, and leisure venues
  • Reintroduction of a lower rate of VAT on tickets 
  • Orchestra Tax Relief to be made permanent 
  • Creaton of a Live Music Council 
  • Reform of the apprenticeship levy to permit more tailored skills training

2. Strengthen a safe and secure live music sector 

  • Rethink the approach to the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill

3. Enable UK artists to tour internationally more easily 

  • Introduce a cultural exemption to the Trade and Cooperation Agreement 
  • Secure member state level solutions to ease the 90/180 day rule 
  • Support to navigate existing requirements 
  • Speed up processing of A1 forms 

4. Protect fans from ticket touts 

  • Calling on tech companies to stop promoting touts
  • New ticketing laws that bring the UK into line with other progressive music markets 

5. Build a sustainable live music sector 

  • Accelerate the sector's transition to net zero through increased funding and technical support