§ Mr. HODGEasked whether the Under-Secretary is aware of the effect of the competition of Army bands on the chances of livelihood of civilian bandsmen; whether Army bands are allowed by the commanding officers to be away from duty for long intervals, sometimes amounting to six 1976 months in the year, during which time they are in receipt of Army pay and qualifying for pensions; and, if so, under what authority the commanding officers grant such facilities?
§ Mr. ACLANDThe whole question of the competition of Army bands has been very fully considered, and explicit instructions have been issued on the subject. I am not aware of any cases in which bands have been engaged for prolonged periods, but if the hon. Member will furnish me with any particular case or cases I will make inquiries into them.