§ 81. Colonel DAYasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether any proceedings have yet been instituted under the Theatrical Employers Registration Act, 1925, and the result of such prosecutions?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir William Joynson-Hicks)The only proceedings which have been brought to my notice are those instituted by the Variety Artistes Federation at Leigh on the 24th February against a man and his wife for carrying on the business of theatrical employers without being registered. The man was fined £5, and the case against his wife was dismissed.
§ Colonel DAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of these theatrical managers and touring companies have not registered, and will he take steps to see that they do register according to the Act?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSIt is quite clear that the Variety Artistes' Federation has already taken steps. Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will communicate with them?
Mr. BECKETTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, owing to the fact that theatrical travelling managers cannot be forced to show their registration licences, it is extraordinarily difficult for trade unions or anybody else to catch them up in this matter—practically impossible?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSBut I think the hon. Gentleman will know that the register is open to inspection.
§ Colonel DAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the menace of the bogus manager is now even bigger than before, and will he take steps to see that they comply with the Act of Parliament?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe Act of Parliament was passed at the instigation of the hon. and gallant Gentleman; and it is, perhaps a little early to say than it should be amended
Mr. BECKETTWill the right hon. Gentleman in this matter take the advice, not only of the trade unions but also of the reputable theatrical employers?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI will, at any time, take any advice that is helpful.