Sir Keir Starmer Urged to Take Action Against Viagogo and Put an End to Ticket Touting
The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, is being called upon to tackle the ongoing issues caused by the ticket tout site Viagogo. The UK-based Daily Record has highlighted the alarming practices of Viagogo, a US-based company, which continues to operate with blatant disregard for UK laws. Over the years, investigations by the Daily Record have exposed the illegal activities of major touts who exploit fans by reselling tickets at exorbitant prices, even for events that are not sold out.
One of the latest revelations exposes how sellers on Viagogo are listing thousands of tickets for events that have availability, yet selling them at inflated prices, sometimes double the face value. Many unsuspecting Scottish fans have fallen victim to this scheme, unknowingly purchasing overpriced tickets through Viagogo. Despite efforts to address ticket touting through legislation such as the Consumer Rights Act, Viagogo persists in flouting the law.
Prior to his election, Sir Keir Starmer promised to implement a cap of 10 per cent on ticket sales in the UK, in line with the Daily Record’s Stub Out The Touts campaign. Such a cap would significantly impact the profitability of ticket touting. The current actions of Viagogo indicate a complete disregard for any regulations or consumer protection measures in place. It is suggested that Viagogo’s behaviour signals a desire for self-destruction, and Sir Keir Starmer is urged to take decisive action and help usher Viagogo into obscurity.
The mistreatment of consumers by ticket touting sites like Viagogo underscores the importance of ensuring fair access to tickets for all fans. The exploitation of music and event-goers through inflated prices is a concerning trend that must be addressed by both regulatory bodies and elected officials. Concerts, shows, and sporting events should remain accessible and affordable for everyone, without the interference of scalpers seeking to profit unfairly.
In a related matter, concerns have been raised about the registration process of young football players, which often favours top clubs and limits the freedom of young athletes to choose their desired clubs. Players under the age of 17 should have the opportunity to move between clubs based on their preferences, ensuring they have the best chance to develop their skills and pursue their sporting aspirations. The Scottish Football Association and Scottish Professional Football League are called upon to review their practices to support the growth and success of young football talent.
The ongoing battles against ticket touting and unfair constraints on young athletes highlight the need for continued advocacy and vigilance to protect consumers and aspiring sports stars. By holding accountable those who exploit fans and athletes, we can strive towards a fair and equitable landscape for all participants in the entertainment and sporting industries.