Written question asked by Lord Watson of Wyre Forest (Labour) on Monday, 25 January 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 27 January 2010. It was answered by David Lammy (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 February 2010 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Licensing: Music

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has made of the likely effect on (a) charities and (b) other not-for-profit organisations of the proposed changes to music licensing legislation, with particular reference to the West Midlands.

Answer: The Government did not undertake any region by region assessment and therefore West Midlands was not considered on an individual basis. However, as part of the consultation process a final impact assessment was commissioned from independent consultants, Europe Economics. This assessment estimated the impact on groups across the UK which would be affected. A shortened and updated form was published on 12 November 2009 with the Government response which was placed in the Library of the House. This contains a weblink to the full Europe Economics impact assessment.The exact impact will be determined by the outcome of consultations between Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL) and organisations concerned on licence fee levels. As part of this process it is essential that PPL work with the third sector to agree reasonable and appropriate tariffs. We value the contribution musical performers make to the economic and cultural success of our country. We have got to make sure that they are rewarded for their efforts so they can continue creating. The Government want to ensure that discussions between PPL and the third sector are facilitated so that the outcome is satisfactory for all concerned. A mutually agreed solution is vital if the needs of both PPL members and the third sector are to be met. I remain confident that this will be possible.

Secondary information