An unexpected opportunity to influence the licensing debate in Parliament has come in the form of an Early Day Motion by Labour MP Janet Anderson. Her EDM, number 1920, expresses extreme disappointment at the government's decision to reject the Culture Committee's live music exemptions, and calls on the government 'to reassess its position':

'That this House welcomes the Government's commitment to investigate proposals around portable licences for circus entertainment; is, however, extremely disappointed at the Government's rejection of many of the other excellent recommendations of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee Report on the Licensing Act 2003, including an exemption for small venues, better consistency between local authorities, the hybrid proposal for licensing lap dancing establishments and the scrapping of Form 696; celebrates the cultural value of live performances as an integral part of the creative sector; and therefore urges the Government to reassess its position and to take note of the recommendations of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee Report which are supported by the unions representing live performers and entertainers throughout the UK.'

http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMDetails.aspx?EDMID=39145&SESSION=899

Since the motion was put down on 16 July, nine MPs from all parties have signed. However, this number could rise significantly if people write to their MP encouraging them to sign. You can do this online at: www.theyworkforyou.com

EDMs rarely get debated, but if enough MPs sign this can generate significant media coverage.

ENDS

Hamish Birchall