A proposed ban on playing music and videos out loud on public transport in England has gained support from the Liberal Democrats, aiming to improve commuters’ experiences and create a safe and respectful environment.
The Liberal Democrats have proposed a ban on playing music and videos out loud on public transport in England, with the aim of improving commuters’ experiences. The party believes that many people now dread their daily commute due to others blasting music or other content from their phones or speakers.
The Liberal Democrats are a center-left political party in the United Kingdom.
Founded in 1988, they emerged from the merger of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Liberal Party.
The party's core values include individual freedom, social justice, and environmental protection.
They have been part of coalition governments with both Labour and Conservative parties.
According to a 2020 survey, the Liberal Democrats had over 114,000 members, making them one of the largest liberal parties in Europe.
The Problem of Loud Music on Public Transport
According to polling commissioned by the Lib Dems, 38% of people have experienced people playing loud music from their phones often or sometimes, while 54% said they would not feel comfortable asking someone to turn down their music. This issue affects commuters of all ages and backgrounds.
The Case for a Ban
Lisa Smart, the party’s home affairs spokesperson, argues that the ban is necessary to create a safe and respectful environment on public transport. She states: ‘Whether you’re heading to work, taking your kids to school or simply trying to enjoy a moment of peace, everyone deserves to feel safe and respected on public transport.‘ The Lib Dems believe that this ban will help to reduce antisocial behaviour and promote public civility.
Enforcement and Enforcement
The Conservatives have expressed support for the proposal, as long as any ban is properly enforced. Gareth Bacon, the shadow transport secretary, said: ‘Everyone deserves to travel in peace. Playing loud music on public transport may seem like a small thing, but it speaks towards a growing tolerance of antisocial behaviour that chips away at public civility.‘
Existing Regulations
Railway bylaws already prohibit certain types of antisocial behaviour, including littering. The proposed amendment would extend this protection to include music or other loud noise from a phone.
International Precedents
Other countries have already implemented similar bans on playing music or videos out loud on public transport. For example, in France, a man was fined €200 (£170) by rail staff after making a phone call on loudspeaker in a quiet area of Nantes station.
International precedents refer to established practices, laws, or decisions made by countries or international organizations that serve as a basis for future actions.
These precedents can be found in various areas, including diplomacy, 'trade', and human rights.
The concept of precedent is essential in international law, as it provides clarity and predictability in global interactions.
For instance, the Geneva Conventions set precedents for humanitarian treatment during war.
Similarly, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has established precedents for resolving disputes between nations.
