The surprise move, which has been described by a DCMS spokesman as "radical", will see a consultation open at the end of this week that suggests "a reform of activities currently classed as regulated entertainment in Schedule One of the 2003 Act".

Schedule One entertainment covers music and gigs. According to the DCMS, the consultation will seek views "on the removal in certain circumstances of the requirement for a licence in England and Wales to host a performance of a ...