§ 49. Mr. DENVILLEasked the Minister of Labour whether he will take steps to ascertain what is the present approximate amount paid out per annum in unemployment insurance payments and unemployment assistance to persons whose previous employment was that of actor, actress, stage hand, variety artist, or musician?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead)The approximate amount paid out per annum in unemployment benefit and unemployment allowances to the classes of persons referred 24 to could not be ascertained without an expensive inquiry which my right hon. Friend would not feel justified in authorising.
§ Mr. DENVILLEWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman accept the figures of the Association connected with these people, which are 23,000 out of work at a cost of over £1,000,000 to the State? In view of the small amount coming from the Entertainments Duty, will he favourably consider representations with a view to its abolition?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADI could not accept the hon. Member's figures off-hand.