"Government plans to set up a working group of key players from the music world, local authorities and the industry" - so who is going to be on that, and will there be anyone who understands how our kind of music works? They should have Hamish, but I have a feeling Kim would blow his top at the suggestion. Or Martin Carthy - or Norma Waterson might be even better.

I am given to understand that the MU has not specifically been invited!

All input from the music 'industry' is to be filtered through a special adviser there called Steven Navin. Please check with the DCMS on 0207 221 6200 and feel free to offer your advice and services to Dr Howells.