§ 20. Mr. AYLESasked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many civilian engagements were taken by naval bands during the past 12 months; what remuneration was received for such engagements; and how much was received by the bandsmen for their personal use?
§ Mr. AMMONThe information as regards Royal Marine bands on shore is as follows:
Engagements, 172. Payment received, £11,844, from which general expenses are met. Remuneration to bandsmen, £8,766, from which the men meet their personal expenses.No similar information is available for bands afloat.
§ Mr. DAYCan the right hon. Gentleman say what was the length of these engagements, and whether these bands are allowed to accept engagements that under-cut civilian rates of pay?
§ Mr. AMMONThe first part I cannot answer, but, so far as the second part is concerned, they in no case under-cut civilian bands.
§ Mr. HAYCOCKCan these naval bandsmen belong to the Musicians' Union?