§ 19. Colonel DAYasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that the band of Kneller Hall, Royal Military School of Music, has been engaged at the London Coliseum as a symphonic combination and, in view of the prevailing distress among civilian musicians, will he take such action as will prevent such employment of students receiving training from public funds?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI am aware of the engagement referred to. As regards the second part of the question, the engagement does not interfere with the training of the students who comprise the band, and the fees received are not lower than would be charged by civilian musicians. I am therefore not prepared to issue instructions to the effect desired by the hon. Member.
§ Colonel DAYDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider it fair that this band, which receives fees out of public funds, should be allowed to compete with civilian bands?
Mr. SPEAKERI must ask the hon. and gallant Member not to repeat the question which is on the Paper.
§ Sir HARRY BRITTAINIs the right hon. Gentleman not greatly touched to find a gallant colonel backing civilian as against military bands?