UPDATE: |POLL: Should it be illegal to play loud music on public transport? News

Should ‘headphone dodgers’ be slapped with fines?

They’ve been dubbed ‘headphone dodgers.’ And the issue of those who play music loudly on public transport has generated a lot of noise this week.

One senior politician has said it has become so commonplace it is making people ‘dread’ their morning commute.

Greater Manchester MP Lisa Smart, who is the Liberal Democrats spokesperson for home affairs, said it was a form of anti-social behaviour.

“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,” she said.

“Time and time again, I hear from people who say they feel too intimidated to speak up when someone is blasting music or other content from a phone or speaker.

“It’s time to take a stand for the quiet majority who just want to get from A to B in peace.”

Her party is calling for it to be banned and has suggested fines of up to £1,000 for those who flout the rules.

The Tories agreed, with Shadow transport secretary Gareth Bacon saying: “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.”

The Home Office is said to be looking at how on-the-spot fines could be used to tackle anti-social behaviour.

But we want to know what you think. Is this a sensible suggestion? Do you think making the playing of loud music or videos on buses and trains should be made illegal?

Or is this a case of overkill and, and an unnecessary restriction and curb on people’s freedom?

Let us know your thoughts in the poll below