I guess we are just plain lucky here in Downunderland that the various level of government which are inflicted on us have not (so far) sen it worth their while to hedge us around with regulations which are as obtuse, obstructive, obfuscatory or just plain stupid as you are experiencing in the UK. However, given the tendency of any government to copy the restrictive actions of others, I suppose it may only be a matter of time.

I think we here - especially the organisers of such major events as Woodford and the National Festival etc, could use a few leads to head the legislators off at the pass before they present us with a fait accompli. It worries me that the recent introduction of our new GST laws could be the start, by making a potential criminal of anyone who accepts a fee of any kind for playing music and doesn't declare - however small or irregular the payment. Licensing either premises or performers is an obvious next step for the powers that be.

Please keep the information posted. Thanks Shambles, it can only help.