James McDermott: The show is over for the old-style tout but the saga of over-priced tickets goes on

There’s a simple way to end the outrageous exploitation of gig-goers: put our wallets back in our pockets

Ordinary fans priced out of attending Six Nations matches years ago may soon discover that they are not even able to watch them on television. Photo: Sportsfile/Getty

People have always been prepared to go to extraordinary lengths to secure tickets for sold-out events. Back in 1964, having just starred in the Royal Variety Performance, the legendary comedian Tommy Cooper found himself being introduced to Queen Elizabeth II.

“Can I ask you a personal question – do you like football?” he asked.

“Not particularly, no,” the queen replied.

“In that case, can I have your Cup Final tickets?”

Last Tuesday, the cabinet approved ...