Government suggests restrictions on microphones and dance floors in pubs

The guidance from the Department for Culture, Media & Sport outlines that while karaoke no longer needs licensing, publicans could face conditions relating to the use of microphones “if a problem had occurred because of customers purchasing alcohol for consumption on the premises becoming louder and less aware of causing noise nuisance later in the evening”.

It added that a condition restricting access to dance floors could be enforced where “the presence of customers in close proximity who had been consuming alcohol on the premises had led to serious disorder”.

The Government added that it is for licensing authorities to judge whether the condition is appropriate and lawful in each case.

Hamish Birchall, live music campaigner and Parliamentary adviser on the Live Music Act, said these conditions could only be applied following a licence review.

The draft guidance relates to the Legislative Reform Order, which will deregulate the playing of live and recorded music in licensed premises between 8am and 11pm before an audience of up to 500 people. It is due to come into effect next Spring.

Currently pubs with 200 or more customers must have a special licence to play or host music.