I certainly don't have a problem with using amplification. As I stated a bit ago, I own and still play my late mom's 1961 Strat. Seems some people had a problem with Bob Dylan and Fairport Convention "plugging in"......

I don't think that's the point. I don't think a performer in a folk club should be forced into using amplification to overcome background chatter, etc.

As it happens, over the last 12 months or so, the only singing I've heard has been unamplified and audiences have been quiet so I don't think there is a problem. (And while I know we can all encounter the problems raised in the first couple of posts, I can't say I've witnessed anything that would lead me to believe its on the increase).