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Lap dancing venue censured for not having music licence
Wed 26 May 2010
A lap dancing venue in Leeds has fallen foul of the law after it was caught playing music without a valid licence.
The Buffalo Lounge did not have a licence from Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL) but continued to play copyrighted tracks on its premises.
A judge has now barred the establishment from playing music until the proprietor - Sarwinder Singh-Nangla - obtains a proper music licence.
If he breaches the order, he could be hit with a custodial sentence or a fine of up to £10,000 for contempt of court.
Jonathan Morrish, spokesman for the PPL, said the body takes infringement of its members' copyright very seriously and that it will take the necessary action to protect their rights.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, he insisted that a PPL licence is a legal requirement for any business that plays recorded music in public.
Mr Morrish added that it is "widely recognised" that playing music in public can produce "significant potential benefits" for a business.
Robert Botkai, a partner at Winckworth Sherwood Solicitors, commented: "A business may have a wide range of licensing requirements.
"It is easy to focus on alcohol and entertainment and forget other licensable activities.
"Licences may be required to play music, show video and film and TV.
"If you have any doubts about what licences your business may require do contact me."
