§ 25. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Minister of Labour the number of applications which have been made in the last 12 months for the admission of foreign domestic servants and foreign musicians, respectively; and how many of each such classes of applications have been granted?
§ Miss BONDFIELDIn the 12 months ended 30th October, 1930, the number of applications for permits for foreign domestic servants and foreign musicians was 5,527 and 845, respectively. Permits were issued in respect of 5,183 and 815 persons, respectively. Of the musicians, the great majority were members of well-known foreign orchestras making a short visit to this country.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLEIn view of the terrific unemployment, why should the Government grant permits to any foreigners to come into the country?
§ Miss BONDFIELDQuite recently we have Lad a still further conference between the parties concerned, and I think we have now a working arrangement satisfactory to both sides.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir A. LAMBERT WARDWhat is the length of period for which permits were issued for domestic servants?
§ Miss BONDFIELDThey were for short periods.
§ Mr. DAYBefore permits for musicians are issued, does consultation take place with the Amalgamated Musicians Union
§ Miss BONDFIELDYes. That is the arrangement.
§ Mr. DAYDoes any consultation take place with any organisation before permits are granted to foreign domestic servants?
§ Miss BONDFIELDI wish I had some organisation to consult.
Viscountess ASTORIs it not true that for the purpose of instruction in foreign languages it is necessary to admit some of these foreigners?
§ Miss BONDFIELDIt is to a very great extent part of the arrangement connected with the exchange of domestic servants and waiters.