UK to ban concert ticket resales at inflated prices

London, United Kingdom: The UK government on Wednesday announced plans to ban the resale of tickets for concerts, sports matches and other events abov...

London, United Kingdom: The UK government on Wednesday announced plans to ban the resale of tickets for concerts, sports matches and other events above their original price, targeting touts who profit from inflated prices.

Resale platforms and ticket touts often list tickets at a huge mark-up on their face value price, sparking outrage from the music industry and fans alike.

The issue was highlighted by widespread public anger over the exorbitant cost of some tickets to see the British leg of Britpop band Oasis's reunion tour this year.

"The UK is home to a brilliant range of music, entertainers and sporting stars -- but when fans are shut out -- it only benefits the touts," Business Secretary Peter Kyle said in a statement.

"That's why we're taking these bold measures to smash their model to pieces and make sure more fans can enjoy their favourite stars at a fair price."