Third I do not think the "incidental music" exemption can stay as it is either.

This is because of Human Rights law. Article 8 requires respect for (amongst other things) home and private life. This was why the Joint Committee on Human Rihgts said that it was ESSENTIAL that licence appications had to be advertised, so that people could know when they could object, to protect thier himes and private lives. I live between two pubs (and run a PA rig for a couple of local bands) and believe me the JCHR was sooooooooo right.

Not going to argue this noise issue with you yet again Richard but if the 'incidental' recorded music exemption is OK, surely so must the the Lord's 'incidental' live music amendment. Or do you wish to do away with the original exemption too, not that I see either make much practical sense? If so what chance is there of you doing away with them?

Can you also explain why the acoustic exemption will not exempt acoustic sessions?