Culture Secretary Kim Howells has met with the Musicians Union to discuss that new licensing legislation which, by making pubs apply for licenses in order to stage live music, the Union fears will close down a vital network of small venues for its members. Although refusing to budge on the legislation itself Howells has promised a representative from the Union can join a working group which will discuss how best to implement the new legislation.
Talking to the BBC the Union described the meeting as "constructive". "Our chairman emerged with a positive attitude because the government had made this constructive proposal about us participating on the issue of guidance. But we still have this fundamental difference about basic approach."
Although the House of Lords also expressed concern at the affect the new law would have on live music – proposing an amendment to remove unamplified music from the new ruling – the Department for Culture, Media and Sport says it is supportive of live music, and that the new legislation should encourage its growth.
A spokesman for the department told reporters that pubs can apply for the public entertainment licence as part of their alcohol licence, at less cost than at present. They considered live music important but added "live music has to be balanced against residents' rights to a quiet night's sleep."
With regards the meeting with the MU the spokesperson said: "The minister acknowledged the union's concerns, but agreed that the DCMS and the Musicians' Union will work together to ensure the new legislation significantly increases opportunities for performers to perform."