However, the society is hitting back by promising a significant transformation of its business to maintain current distribution levels, its relevance in the digital age and to promote a more "powerful brand and identity" in the corridors of power at Westminster and Brussels.

The society outstripped expectations this year with a total income of £608.2m from areas such as online and public performance, but PRS CEO Steve Porter has warned that 2009 is going to be a tough year for ...