HC Deb 20 February 1929 vol 225 cc1117-8
51. Mr. BECKETT

asked the Minister of Labour why he issued permits to land in England to a music-hall troupe known as the Coney Island Freaks; and whether, considering the widespread unemployment amongst British music-hall artistes, he will consider rescinding the permits?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

After consultation with the Variety Artistes' Federation permits were issued in this case for a number of aliens, described as vaudeville artistes, on condition that they were engaged with not less than 50 per cent. of British "acts" I have since learned that there has been objection to some features of the performance and I understand that the performers concerned will be repatriated forthwith.

Mr. BECKETT

Was any procedure adopted by the Labour Ministry to find out what kind of turn it was?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I am occasionally the judge of artistic merits, but it is the Home Secretary who is the censor of morals.

Sir FRANK MEYER

Will the right hon. Gentleman ascertain from the party opposite since when has it been their policy to restrict the importation of alien freaks?

Mr. BECKETT

Is the Minister of Labour not aware that, like his right hon. Friend, he is in a minority on art as his colleague is on morals?

Mr. DAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman state whether a consultation took place with the Variety Artistes' Federation before permits were issued to these foreign artistes?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

As regards employment, I generally consult with the different bodies representing British artistic performers in this country.