The annual meeting, which allows writers and publishers to elect board members and approve the 2009 financial accounts, also saw Robert Ashcroft give his first speech as chief executive.

Rich will step down from his position as PRS chairman later this year, and in his opening speech he stressed the music industry should not be considered as a "free lunch" for the general public.

"Our mission and we have no choice but to accept it, is to continue to focus ...