Hootenany,
It does - but.............
Once 'As I Roved Out' finished the BBC appeared to lose interest in what happened to the project.
As I understand it, originally they kept a multiple supply of each song on acetate discs. after a couple of plays each disc was smashed until the supply dwindled. I have no idea if they were ever replaced and what the state of play is now.
The EFDSS set was at first kept on disc but has recently been digitised.
As the project was a joint BBC/EFDSS one it would seem that the material belonged equally to both organisations.
Kennedy claimed ownership of the collection and was never challenged.
It would be a dodgy situation if the collection was reclaimed by the BBC as they would charge the going rate for their use; they don't discriminate between an old traditional singer and the latest pop superstar (the rate for use stood one time at (I think) £3 per second).
As far as I can see, the responsibility lies with EFDSS to see that the collection is reclaimed for us.
Anybody interested can look at the BBC's excellent index to the collection at Cecil Sharp Housse
Jim Carroll
PS Your posting seems to be far more articulate than mine - late night!