The Government needs to think again about new proposals which will outlaw almost all forms of singing and dancing without a licence.

Even singing the national anthem in a pub could be banned under the reforms, which have angered everyone from morris dancers to top pop groups like The Levellers.

The idea is to have councils in charge of licensing, which would give them extensive control over any music and dancing.

Culture minister Kim Howells says the Government has no intention of proceeding with the more ludicrous proposals.

But unless the wording is changed, bell-ringers and pub bands could technically be put out of business if they do not pay for public entertainment licences.

It could even be an offence to busk on the streets or go carol singing.

The reforms sound like bureaucracy gone mad and Mr Howells is exactly the sort of no-nonsense politician who does not like red tape.

He needs to talk to musicians and make sure any licensing changes are for the benefit of them and their audiences rather than becoming another burden.

There's no doubt existing licensing laws are antiquated and badly need reform. But these proposals in their current form will only create more disharmony.