Recently there have been press headlines about the government ' s proposals to abolish the restriction on pub opening hours. At last we will fall in line with just about every other country in the world. Hurrah! But before you cheer too loudly, there is a sting in the tail and a nasty one at that. At the same time as revising the law on pub opening, the Government is proposing to tidy up the situation on entertainment licences.

The bill currently before parliament contains provisions that will have a serious impact on all branches of the performing arts, both amateur and professional. Schools, village halls, pubs, restaurants, even private houses will have to be licensed if used for performance events, whether they take place frequently or only occasionally. Any performance in unlicensed premises will be a criminal offence, punishable by a large fine and costs, or a prison sentence.

Full story | More information available from Music lovers | There is also an online petition + a Demo against the License Bill Reforms, 1pm Parliament Square, London 27 Jan