A new music-licensing proposal for English pubs has musicians and pub owners protesting. “The bill is potentially fatal to the future of live entertainment of all kinds.” It’s described as “a central plank in the government’s drive to tackle anti-social behaviour. Overnight, live music ‘in any place’ will be illegal unless a licence or temporary entertainment notice from local authorities is obtained, with all its attendant costs and red tape. This means everything from Christmas festivities to impromptu music sessions in small, out-of-the-way pubs will be liable to penalties of up to £20,000 and six months’ imprisonment.”