Legal clarification

You may recall last summer the slight stir that came out of a certain hypnotist trying to cast the legality of street hypnosis into question.

Recently Jonathan Chase wrote this article on his website, explaining that he'd contacted his MP, who then in turn contacted the house of commons library for clarification.

To quote Jon:

"The general conclusion seems to be that street hypnosis is busking and as such does not need a licence – unless there is a local by-law specifically insisting on one and that calling it research in a pub would be seen as dubious by the courts."

So the word here from central government is that, subject to local bylaws of course, hypnosis on a public street probably does not require a license.

The second point in that statement refers to performing formal hypnosis stage shows without a license on licensed premises and calling it "research" in order to circumvent the licensing laws. This is something for which the hypnotist who was trying to stir up the trouble is known to do. My feeling after reading the above article is that this particular loophole is one that would be likely to close like a noose around his neck if he ever had to put any weight on it, something that would be immensely satisfying to watch.

I would like to thank Jonathan Chase for doing the obvious and clarifying this point for us all.

Also, whilst we're on the subject, be sure to tune into his new podcast radio show, the first episode of which is today, and can be found here.