§ 61. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the amount of unemployment which has been occasioned to members of the theatrical profession and their assistants by reason of the Entertainments Duty, which has to be paid irrespective of whether a play is financially successful or not; and Whether he will consider the removal of this tax so far as the living theatre is concerned, especially having regard to the recent increased receipts of the revenue from wireless licences and to the fact that wireless programmes are largely dependent on artistes who have received their training on the theatrical or concert stage?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAAs regards the first part of the question, it would not be possible to ascertain the extent of unemployment in the theatrical profession which might be ascribed to the effects of the Entertainments Duty. As regards the second part, my hon. Friend's suggestion has been noted but I am sure that he will not expect me to anticipate the Budget statement.
§ Sir W. DAVISONWill the inquiry be made as to whether the revenue is really benefiting by this tax on the living theatre, which is quite a small proportion of the total tax, and will the hon. Gentleman try to ascertain the number of people who are out of employment in the industry and the number of theatres which have been closed?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHANaturally the effect of any particular tax upon the revenue and upon the industry concerned are matters for consideration.