§ 2. Mr. CRAVEN-ELLISasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the distress now prevailing amongst English actors, actresses, and musicians who have been largely displaced from engagements in this country owing to the admission of alien artistes into Great Britain during a period of depression; and will he exercise greater stringency relative to the admission of alien artistes into Great Britain?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONI am aware that there is unemployment among British actors and musicians, but I do not agree that it is due to the admission of foreigners. In my view, the present restrictions on the admission of foreign actors and musicians go as far as is desirable in the interests of British artistes themselves, many of whom, it must be remembered, seek to obtain engagements abroad.
§ Mr. CRAVEN-ELLISIs my right hon. Friend aware that on Saturday last five plays were withdrawn from London theatres, causing extreme unemployment, and that while this is taking place aliens are permitted to come into this country?
§ Mr. LAWSONIs it not the case that excessive restrictions in this country may have the effect of damaging the prospects of our people getting employment in other countries?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONThat is the purport of the answer that I have just given.