On this week's show we discuss questions and potential legal action over the politicisation of arts funding, as Kneecap are denied money by the British government and Arts Council England issues new guidance for anyone thinking of being controversial, plus the legal battle over royalties currently brewing between MLC and Pandora, and more. SECTION TIMES 01: Arts funding (00:04:23) 02: News in brief (00:14:54) 03: MLC v Pandora (00:16:46) (Timings may be slightly different due to adverts) THIS WEEK'S MAIN STORIES • UK Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch’s decision to block MEGS funding for Kneecap “unlawful” says band as it prepares legal action • Arts Council says free speech and controversy is fine, but please follow a detailed risk assessment first • MLC sues Pandora over unpaid royalties NEWS IN BRIEF • Tributes pour in as BBC radio presenter Steve Wright dies • Musicians' Union reluctantly reaches deal with English National Opera over orchestra cutbacks • NTIA says nightlife faces cultural crisis after 400 club closures since 2020 • As another grassroots venue closes, MVT renews calls for a ticket levy ALSO MENTIONED • Music industry welcomes German ruling holding TikTok liable for unlicensed content