We can hope - but perhaps we need more than simply hoping? The following shows just how bad it has become and how urgent the need is to remove live music from the hands of those who do not understand it and who are paid to enforce licensing.

http://councilmeetings.lewisham.gov.uk/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=1998&T=1

John King comments:
As a result of no evidence, other than 'advice' from a Licensing Officer, Lewisham Council bans amplified music in a coffee shop and restricts live music to one performer. NO mention of the incidental music exemption, NO mention of any cultural impac...t, NO mention of employment opportunities for musicians.