Despite warnings that it could imperil the livelihood of musicians, Punch-and-Judy stalls, buskers and traveling entertainers generally (see Apr. 1, 2004), the British government in November put into effect new regulations requiring licensing of temporary public amusements. Now the Guardian reports that critics’ predictions are coming true, as the rules have begun to strain smaller circuses, neighborhood music venues hosting jazz or ethnic music, street artists and charity Christmas carolers. “The only exemptions were for morris dancing, travelling fairgrounds and garden fetes.” (Mark Honigsbaum, “Circus performers get caught in the act”, The Guardian, Dec. 28).
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U.K.: “New law threatens Punch and Judy shows”
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