http://www.thestage.co.uk/paper/0325/0101.shtml

The Stage
Howells – 'We got it wrong'
by Sally Bramley

Days before being promoted in the government reshuffle, former culture minister Kim Howells has admitted the government "got it wrong" over aspects of the proposed licensing bill and acknowledged the legislation would have to change if reform does not produce an increase in the number of live music venues.

In an exclusive interview, Howells told The Stage that the MU had conducted a "good campaign from their point of view". He said: "But they were wrong. It seemed to them doing away with the 'two in a bar' rule was okay but they thought that maybe they could get more."

However, he acknowledged the government had been wrong not to take account earlier of the effects of licensing reform on thousands of amateur venues and added that the professional sector must benefit from law change with an expansion in the number of performance outlets.

"If we don't see a proliferation of music venues as a result of this bill then we must change the law," stated Howells.

As parliamentary under-secretary of state with responsibility for tourism, film and broadcasting, Howells hit the headlines with his frequent outspoken comments. But, as a vociferous advocate for reform of the existing law he made enemies when he dubbed the MU's campaign against the bill "pernicious and lying".

Musicians' Union general secretary John Smith said of Howells' departure: "I'm not entirely unhappy to see him go but I will miss the war of words. He certainly raised the profile of the bill but he wasn't the easiest person to work with."

The smug arrogance of people who treat other people' business, passions and lives like it was just a game, when it suits their new political ambitions and becomes time to change their image, leaves a bad taste. Especially when it is not too late to work to correct the many things this Government have got wrong. Possibly Dr Howells did not expect the Bill to be defeated again in the Lords?

To even talk about the possibilty of introducing new legislation at this stage - when it has taken so long to even get to this stage and when amateur musicians were trying to inform them of these problems all through this long period, is callous and totally unforgivable.