HC Deb 09 April 1935 vol 300 c970
36. Captain STRICKLAND

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has given consideration to the suggestion of imposing a quota on the number of foreign artistes permitted to take stage engagements in this country proportionate to the number of British artistes engaged for performances abroad?

Mr. STANLEY

I do no think the method of fixing a quota is a practicable one. Permits are not issued unless the Department is satisfied in each case that they ought not to be refused.

Captain STRICKLAND

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the amount of unemployment which exists in the British entertainment profession among artistes of at least equal merits?

Mr. STANLEY

That is one of the factors taken into consideration. I am afraid that the suggestion of the hon. and gallant Member is not practicable.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Would they not do better if they adopted Italian names?

Captain STRICKLAND

May I ask whether any other country imposes a quota on permits granted to visiting artistes?

Mr. STANLEY

I could not answer that without notice.