§ 1. Mr. DAYasked the Minister of Labour what conditions are imposed upon alien dance-band musicians when permits are granted for them to enter this country for the purpose of carrying on their profession; whether any specific conditions are imposed upon the employers of these bands; whether she can state the number of permits that have been granted to alien band musicians for the 12 months ended to the last convenient date; and the number of these permits that have been extended?
§ The MINISTER of LABOUR (Miss Bondfield)For the conditions relating to the admission of foreign band musicians to this country for purposes of employment, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the right hon. Member for Woolwich West (Sir K. Wood) on 2nd June last. During the 12 months ended 30th June, 1930, permits were issued in respect of 95 alien dance and restaurant hand musicians and extensions were granted in 23 of these cases.
§ Mr. DAYCan my right hon. Friend say whether these conditions are strictly adhered to or whether the inspectors make inquiries?
§ Miss BONDFIELDYes, Sir.
§ Mr. DAYCan my right hon. Friend say whether the Musicians' Union have complained that these permits have been continued to the detriment of British musicians?
§ Miss BONDFIELDNo, Sir; I think the Musicians' Union are frequently in touch with my office, and that they do investigate every case of complaint.
§ Sir KINGSLEY WOODIn view of the unemployment existing among so many musicians in this country, does not the whole matter require reconsideration?
§ Miss BONDFIELDNo, Sir, the matter is constantly being reconsidered, and we have to consider the repercussions upon British musicians in foreign parts.