Before the 'naysayers', decend upon us.

It is indeed a pity and the current law is not a good one, but it is unforunately the law until it can be changed (even if the new one is worse).

The locals and licensee certainly have my sympathy but this law is at least clear that conventional paid entertainment, with more than two 'performers' does need a PEL. You don't say how many 'performers' were involved, but as the officers have prevented the gigs, the assumption is made that there are (at least sometimes) more than two?

This does flag up the all too common problem and it is useful to list them here. But unlike many of the council actions listed here where the interpretation of the law being used is not so clear, this enforcement is not possible to address without a change in the law.

And the Government are at least recognising that the law needs to change!!!

It may possily be a cheaper option, for the licensee to wait now until the new Premises Licence comes in (set to be July 2003) and limit the bands to duos, in the meantime. Especially if the officers prosecute them now.

Do Please keep us informed of any more details and progress.