Written question asked by Charlotte Atkins (Labour) on Monday, 18 January 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 21 January 2010. It was answered by David Lammy (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 February 2010 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Copyright: Music

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has made of the effect of proposed changes to the music licensing system on charities and other not-for-profit groups in (a) Staffordshire Moorlands constituency and (b) the West Midlands.

Answer: [holding answer 21 January 2010]: The Government did not make any specific assessment of the effects on (a) Staffordshire Moorlands constituency or (b) the West Midlands. However, as part of our consultation process we commissioned a final impact assessment from independent consultants, Europe Economics. This assessment estimated the impact on groups across the UK which would be affected. It was published on 12 November 2009 with the Government Response and a summary was placed in the House Library.The exact impact will be determined by the outcome of consultations between Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL) and organisations concerned on licence fee levels. 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. As part of this process it is essential that PPL work with the third sector to agree reasonable and appropriate tariffs. 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