One thing to remember is that the show is called " The Mike Harding Show". It ceased to be "Folk On Two" over a decade ago.
It's connection with grass roots folk music ceased at that point, It's an entry level programme for all those listeners may continue listening after the Drivetime show.
It's not in their remit to play anything that will scare the horses is it. And what Dave Eyre says above is basically correct. The Life Time award will always go to someone that a) The controller has heard of, and b) someone who will provide a decent photo opportunity at the ceremony. c) someone who is on tour at the time that we can get cheap.
Call me a cynic......"You're a cynic!!!"