The reason why there is so much opposition to even this modest proposal and why it is only announced on the last day of 2009, is that in order for even one person to be exempted, this means that the Government accepts that other existing legislation is adequate to ensure the public's safety etc. without the need for any expensive and cumbersome additional entertainment permission.

The local government lobby still try to maintain (as their jobs rely on it) that this additional entertainment permission is the only way the public can be protected. This, even when so much live music took place perfectly safely under the old 'two-in-a-bar' rule, which this lobby advised the Government to scrap, on introduction of the Licensing Act 2003.

Remember also that all that is being proposed, is only yet further consultation.

http://www.musicweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=1&storycode=1039509&c=1

Live music performances for 100 people or less will no longer need to be licensed, under proposals announced today by licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe.

An exemption from the Licensing Act for small live music events would make it easier for a wide range of venues to put on live music, and help musicians who want to play to a live audience.

Sutcliffe says, "Going to see a band, musician or singer is a very important part of many people's lives and we're keen to do what we can to support audiences and musicians."

He believes and exemption for venues with 100 people or less would benefit many small venues, particularly unlicensed premises such as village halls and cafes, which may currently be put off by licensing requirements."

However, he is also proposing that the exemption can be revoked at individual premises if there have been problems with noise, nuisance or disorder and to ensure concerns of people living close to venues are taken into account, the exemption would only apply to performances that take place between 8am and 11pm.

British Beer and Pub Association director of pub and leisure Martin Rawlings says, "The BBPA welcomes any measures that can help pubs overcome existing barriers to putting on live music, helping aspiring and established musicians to reach audiences while at the same time boosting business, particularly during these difficult economic times."