§ 15. Mr. DAYasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the increasing unemployment amongst civilian musicians, he will consider altering the existing regulations to make it more difficult for bandsmen in His Majesty's Army to accept private engagements in places of entertainment?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. T. Shaw)Existing instructions make it clear that any engagements which soldiers accept in their spare time are purely of a private nature, that such engagements must not interfere with their military duties, and that touting in any shape or form is forbidden. These instructions are precise and clear, and if they are adhered to, I do not see how I can refuse to soldiers the right enjoyed by other men of accepting part-time paid work.
§ Mr. SHAWNo, I cannot accept the statement that there has been any change in methods which has caused hardship to civilians. If any specific cases are brought to my notice, I will investigate them. General allegations are no longer any good.
§ Mr. BROCKWAYCan the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that Army bands are not now having the effect of undercutting trade union standards?
§ Mr. SHAWThere is no information at my disposal which would lead me to think that there is any truth in the allegation that Army bands are undercutting civilian bands.