§ 52. Mr. DAYasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the large number of male unemployed in the theatrical profession and among civilian musicians, he will consider further restricting the employment of serving soldiers, military bandsmen and military bands for other than military and official functions?
Mr. COOPERNo, Sir. I am satisfied that existing instructions already restrict so far as is necessary the acceptance of private engagements by soldiers in their spare time. As regards the employment of Army bands I see no reason, in view of the public demand, to alter the present 1021 policy which permits the acceptance of private engagements at, or above, rates which have been fixed with due regard to local civilian rates.
§ Mr. DAYIs the Minister aware that many soldiers have been accepting engagements in the West End lately and thus keeping civilians out of employment?