§ 27. Mr. FELLasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he can state the number of men of military age who are now engaged in the chorus of the theatres and music halls of the Metropolis at the present time; and if, in view of the effect of the presence of a large number of young men who should be serving their country being exhibited nightly on other young men in the audience, he proposes to take any steps in the matter?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Cecil Harmsworth)The inquiry which is being made as to the number of men who can be spared for enlistment from the several industries have not yet reached the theatrical profession, where the numbers are comparatively small; but I will consider what steps can be taken in the matter.
§ Mr. FELLIs it not less a question of the actual numbers than of the example which those men set by appearing publicly for young men to see them?
§ Mr. HARMSWORTHYes.