§ 26. Mr. HODGEasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that some time ago the civilian band employed on the Brighton Palace Pier was dismissed and its place taken by the band of the Grenadier Guards; and whether it is still to be the policy of the War Office to allow Army bands, upon whom the Department has first claim, to occupy their time in civilian employment while civilian musicians of over military age are out of work and while the Department is advertising that more men are needed for the Army?
§ Mr. TENNANTI am not aware that the band of the Grenadier Guards has displaced the civilian band employed on the Brighton Palace Pier, although it is known that the band of the Grenadier Guards has accepted an engagement at Brighton. As regards the second part of the question, Army bands are allowed under certain regulations to accept outside engagements, and as long as these regulations are not contravened it is not proposed to interfere in the matter.
§ Mr. HODGEWould it not be better if this one was used for recruiting purposes than playing to skulkers at Brighton?
§ Mr. TENNANTI imagine the band is constantly put to the purpose the hon. Member has in view.