§ 16. Mr. WOODSasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to legislation recently passed by the Canadian Parliament providing for the establishment of a board to review fees charged by the Canadian Performing Rights Society; and whether it is proposed to introduce legislation of a similar character in this country?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI have seen a copy of Canadian Bill 55, to which no doubt the hon. Member refers, and I understand from unofficial sources that it recently became law. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.
§ Mr. WOODSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many religious and social organisations receive demand notes from this organisation—in many cases they are not entitled to payment—and that the whole thing is becoming a veritable ramp? May I suggest that he should inquire into the operation of this society?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANIf the hon. Member will bring any specific incidents to my notice, I will certainly have them inquired into without delay.
§ Mr. H. G. WILLIAMSIs there any reason why musical composers should not be paid?
§ Captain STRICKLANDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Performing Rights Society are in fact a taxing authority not under the control of the Government, and that it imposes its own taxes at its own sweet will?