This from the BBC Radio 2 Folk and Acoustic website.

Kim Howells MP (left) will be appearing on the Mike Harding Show on Wednesday July 17th. Howells is the government minister behind the controversial PELs (Public Entertainment Licences) legislation which has been a source of much debate within the folk community.

The 'two in a bar' rule requires pubs and clubs to have a Public Entertainment Licence if performances involve more than two performers. Some local authorities claim that this includes musicians playing in informal pub sessions.

The rule has allegedly led to the closure by local councils of several long-standing folk clubs and sessions since it became law. Musicians' Union member and advisor Hamish Birchall will also be giving his views on the issue.