HC Deb 19 February 1929 vol 225 cc930-1
10. Mr. BRIANT

asked the Secretary of State for War if he has yet obtained any information as to whether any application was made to the commanding officer of the Guards for their services in the production at a London theatre; if such an application is necessary when an engagement of some duration is sought; and, if as application was made, did it state the conditions and number of hours in which the men would be employed?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

As regards fie first part of the question, I am informed that no such application was made. The answer to the second part is in the negative, provided that military duties are not interfered with. The third part does not arise.

Mr. BRIANT

Has the right hon. Gentleman made any inquiry whatever as to the accuracy of the statement that men are away for a week or two on end and all day long? If that is so, does it not seem strange, after the appeals of the Government and of the Prince of Wales to employ ex-service men, that these men should occupy positions that could be filled by unemployed ex-service men?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I have made inquiry, and what I said the other day is substantially accurate. I gather that about 50 Guardsmen have been employed, and that is about one per cent. of those in London. They are not duty men in barracks. They are chiefly those employed in the Pay and Record Office, or married men living out of barracks, and I cannot and do not wish to prevent their occupying their spare time as they may think best.

Mr. DAY

Does not their employment at matinees in these theatres, interfere with their work?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I am satisfied that this employment does not interfere with their military duties.

Mr. R. MORRISON

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that, even if it is only one per cent., it means that work might be found for 50 ex-service men who are out of work now?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I cannot prevent, and I ought not to prevent, soldiers employing their leisure time as they wish, even if they are earning money at it.

Mr. MORRISON

Will the right hon. Gentleman send copies of the Prime Minister's letter to these people?