§ 19. Mr. Denvilleasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that performances are being organised on a Sunday with artistes on behalf of branches of the Royal Air Force, in districts where there are already ample entertainments provided; and whether, in view of the serious effect which this form of competition is having on local enter prises, he will consider putting an end to this practice?
Captain BalfourMy hon. Friend has sent me particulars, which only reached me yesterday, of the performance forming 2043 the subject of his Question. I will make inquiries into the circumstances and communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as possible.
§ Mr. DenvilleIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the artistes who take part in these performances are not paid for their services, but that money is taken at the door and that artistes are out of work who could well do with the salaries that ought to be paid?
Captain BalfourI have said that I will inquire into the circumstances of this particular performance, but it is difficult to say that those who are willing to give the benefit of their skill and experience for nothing should be denied the opportunity of doing so or that troops should be denied the opportunity of hearing them.
§ Mr. DenvilleThe artistes to whom I am referring are working six days a week, and then they give their services on Sundays, while artistes in the same towns are out of work all the week.