HC Deb 23 July 1931 vol 255 cc1655-6
16. Mr. GRAHAM WHITE

asked the Minister of Labour if she has any information as to the number of musicians at present unemployed; and how far it can be shown that their unemployment is due to the development of the talking-film industry?

Miss BONDFIELD

At 22nd June, 1931, there were 4,478 wholly unemployed men and women registered at Employment Exchanges in Great Britain as applicants for work as musicians. No information is available that would show how far their unemployment is due to the development of the talking-film industry.

Mr. DAY

Can the right hon. Lady provide statistics of unemployed musicians at a near date previous to the production of sound films so that comparisons can be made with the figures she has just given?

Miss BONDFIELD

I will look into that question, but I am afraid it is not possible.