Dear Sir or Madam:

LOCAL GOVERNMENT (MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT 1982
PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT LICENCE

With regard to the recent discussions and media attention concerning traditional "folk entertainment", the council would like to re-iterate that under the current legislation, all events (including folk music) where public dancing, music or similar activity takes place and is performed by three or more people, regardless of whether an entry charge has been made, and whether organized or impromptu, a Public Entertainment Licence is required. This does not of course apply to a private function or an event within the bounds of a members only club.

Where it comes to the attention of the Council that public entertainment is being provided without the benefit of a licence, the Council will investigate the matter and if appropriate, will take further action.

The legislation is not intended to 'ban' any type of entertainment, but rather to ensure that such events meet the relevant Health and Safety standards for the protection of the public.

The new proposed licensing bill may clarify, confirm or indeed reform some aspects of this long-standing debate. However, until such time as new legislation is enacted the afore mentioned statement will continue to apply

Yours faithfully

R P Hanton LLb MBA
Corporate Services Manager