Daryowyn
Wasn't like that - sorry.
The idea came from Lomax first.
He was concerned that so many early revival singers were singing American material that he suggested (to MacColl and Lloyd - who had also tries their hand at American songs) that there was a danger of the American repertoire swamping the clubs, and that maybe they should concentrate on the Brit material.
The did so - but as Peggy pointed out - it was for the residents of Ballads and Blues and later, Singers residents.
Whether other clubs came along and said, 'that's a good idea....' who knows (maybe somebody out here.
Jim Carroll