Ken Livingstone aims to boost live music sector

Musicians who regularly play in the London area could be set to benefit from plans to safeguard music venues in the city.

Ken Livingstone, who is aiming to be elected as Mayor of London in 2012, wants live music establishments to be included in the Mayor's planning strategy.

In addition, he is keen to see a forum established that would improve communication between the music industry and local authorities in London.

Mr Livingstone commented: "Cities with a big cultural core survive the rise and fall of other industries."

Speaking to Music Week, he said this means it is important for London to have a "vibrant and strong" live music scene.

Livingstone, who was previously Mayor of London between 2000 and 2008, added that he would like to see a special music festival or expo be staged across the whole city.

This comes after London's legendary Halfmoon venue in Putney recently averted closure.

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