2. Colonel BROADBENTasked the Minister of Labour if her attention has 1431 been called to the refusal of the Governments of the United States of America and France to allow a British band to perform in their respective countries; and if she will refuse permits for bands from the United States of America and France to perform in the United Kingdom in view of the number of unemployed musicians in this country?
§ Miss BONDFIELDThe entry of dance-bands for employment in this country is strictly regulated, and the restrictions imposed by the French Government are, I believe, similar to those in force here. The restrictions in the United States are not due, so far as I am aware, to Government action.
Colonel BROADBENTIs the right hon. Lady aware that a large number of foreign musicians are performing in this country, and will she undertake to give the same protection to British musicians as the musicians of France and the United States receive from their Governments?
§ Miss BONDFIELDThe hon. and gallant Member is mistaken in saying that there is a large number in this country. I can assure him that the greatest possible care is taken in granting permits.
§ Sir KINGSLEY WOODWhen the right hon. Lady says that it is not due to Government action that a musician is not permitted to enter the United States, will she say in what way prohibition is effected?
§ Miss BONDFIELDIt is effected by the organised workers of the United States.
§ Mr. DAYWhen permission is granted to musicians coming into this country, is it not granted only to specialists?
§ Miss BONDFIELDYes, there must be some very special reason.
§ Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHTDoes not the right hon. Lady consider this chivvying of musicians rather ridiculous?