§ 46. Mr. BURNETTasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the loss of educational value which the music festival movement is likely to sustain through a charge of Entertainments Duty being imposed upon single-entry classes, he is prepared to remit the charge?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to my Noble Friend the Member for Perth. (Lord Scone) on the 23rd February, of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. BURNETTDo we understand that that decision will deprive choirs of an opportunity of getting outside criticism, which is such a valuable part of a musical festival?
§ 54. Mr. SIMMONDSasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that one of the conditions upon which certain educational entertainments are being exempted from Entertainments Duty is that no music, not even the national anthem, shall be played at them; and whether he will reconsider the matter and allow a limited amount of music at such entertainments?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am aware that in the case of certain classes of entertainments where exemption from Entertainments Duty is claimed on educational grounds exemption is granted subject to the condition that musical items are not included in the programme. This condition would not apply to the playing of the national anthem, but I cannot undertake to widen the scope of exemption from the Entertainments Duty in the manner proposed.
§ Mr. SIMMONDSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the national anthem was specifically prohibited at one of these entertainments?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINNo, Sir. I am not aware of that, but if the hon. Member will give me particulars I will gladly look into the matter.