Overview

This bill amends the Consumer Rights Bill to regulate the secondary ticketing market for events in the UK. It aims to increase transparency and protect consumers by requiring sellers and platforms to provide clear information about tickets and prohibiting unfair cancellation or blacklisting practices.

Description

The bill introduces several key measures:

Information Disclosure

Sellers and secondary ticketing platforms must provide buyers with key information before purchase, including the ticket's face value, any restrictions, seat location, and whether the seller is affiliated with the platform or event organiser.

Seller Identification

Secondary ticketing platforms must clearly identify sellers, including their name, registered details, and VAT number if applicable.

Prohibition of Cancellation and Blacklisting

Event organisers are prohibited from cancelling tickets or blacklisting sellers solely due to resale, unless explicitly allowed by a fair term in the original ticket contract.

Reporting of Criminal Activity

Secondary ticketing platforms must report any known criminal activity related to ticket resale to appropriate authorities and event organisers (unless reporting would prejudice an investigation).

Enforcement

Local weights and measures authorities in Great Britain and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland can enforce the new rules, imposing financial penalties (up to £5,000) for breaches.

Review of Measures

The Secretary of State must review consumer protection measures related to secondary ticketing and publish a report within 12 months.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, there will be costs associated with enforcement by local authorities and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, and the cost of the Secretary of State's review.

Groups Affected

• Consumers: Will benefit from greater transparency and protection against inflated prices and unfair practices.
• Secondary Ticketing Platforms: Will face increased regulatory burdens and potential financial penalties for non-compliance.
• Ticket Sellers: Must provide accurate information and may face penalties for violations.
• Event Organisers: Are restricted in their ability to cancel tickets or blacklist resellers.
• Local Weights and Measures Authorities & Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment: Will be responsible for enforcing the new regulations.

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