Paul is backing a new campaign which is seeking to curb the rising number of music venue closures across the UK

Senior Labour MP John Spellar, a Government minister under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, is introducing a bill in the Commons to change planning laws. The proposed new law is backed by stars including Sir Paul, Chrissie Hynde, Craig David, Sandie Shaw, Ray Davies, Billy Bragg, Feargal Sharkey and Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason. UK Music, a campaign group representing both the recorded and live music industries, said that over the past decade 35% of music venues across the country have closed. Among venues that have had to fight closure threats are London’s iconic dance club Ministry of Sound and the 100 Club, where The Who, Sex Pistols and Oasis have performed.

Paul has warned that “the future of music is in danger”, with Paul lending his support to a new Parliamentary campaign which is aiming to save UK music venues from closure.

Paul has given his backing to the UK Music initiative, with senior Labour MP John Spellar introducing a new Planning Bill in the House of Commons today (January 10) in an effort to implement the “Agent of Change” principle into UK law.
If implemented, the principle would force developers to take account of the impact of any new scheme on pre-existing businesses – like music venues – before going ahead with their plans.
Speaking ahead of the launch of the campaign today, Paul pledged his full support for Spellar’s bill.
“Without the grassroots clubs, pubs and music venues my career could have been very different,” he said. “If we don’t support music at this level, then the future of music in general is in danger.”

source:nme/sky