§ 30. Mr. AYLESasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the growing unemployment amongst musicians, he will prohibit for the time being naval bands accepting civil engagements?
§ Mr. G. HALLArticle 776 of the King's Regulations and Admiralty Instructions ensures that there is no unfair competition with civilian bands, and I am not prepared to prohibit Naval bands from accepting civil engagements which do not interfere with their Service duties.
§ Mr. AYLESWill the hon. Gentleman be prepared to receive a deputation from the men who are suffering so heavily if one is appointed to wait upon him?
§ Mr. HALLI am advised that there is no very great suffering now. I think I ought to refer to King's Regulation 776, 416 which gives the terms and conditions on which these bands are now engaged. I will send a copy to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. HALLI have been advised that a portion of the amount that has been set aside goes towards what is called the band fund, and the remainder of the money is distributed among the musicians.