Apart from my previous comment regarding the quality (read stupidity) of some local Councillors in the U.K, you must remember that when it comes to periferal activities by the employees of local authorities the phrase "Justify your activities" comes to mind.

If an authority is given powers, it will appoint staff to deal with those powers. To justify their existance ? well find and licence - raise revenue ? - fill in time sheets.

No I'am afraid burocrats need to justify their own existance. I suspect this is not confined to the U.K.

What a pity it is that Music has to suffer !

Sorry if I seem cynical - I spent 60 minutes in a meeting tonight (wearing my Party hat) briefing a group of SWales Councillors in our little valley on the inplications of certain proposed regulations eminating from Westminster.

I could have enjoyed my self more, drinking luke -warm Watneys.(*) My God some of them were thick !!!!!!!

(*) Watneys - non CAMRA members, or those who have not visited the U.K. a now (thank God) defunct National Brewery whose products where not of the highest standards - in fact give me the choice ofWatneys Red or Budweisser, well it's the Bud.

Gareth