§ 67. Mr. Keelingasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the attempt of the Musicians' Union to prevent military bands from playing in uniform at civil entertainments; and what action he proposes to take on behalf of the military bands.
§ Mr. IsaacsI have no authority to intervene but I understand that the particular case which arose last week was settled between the parties concerned.
§ Mr. KeelingWould the Minister tell us what the settlement was; and is he aware that the British public will never tolerate any interference with martial music, which is one of the few tonics they get today, apart from drugs?
§ Mr. IsaacsI accept the opinion of the hon. Gentleman in the second part of the supplementary question. As to the first part, as I have no authority to intervene I have not poked my nose in to get information.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanIs it not a fact that the question of the military playing in uniform is a matter entirely for His Majesty's Government, and not for an outside body such as the Musicians' Union?
§ Mr. IsaacsI would submit that questions relating to the operations of members of His Majesty's Forces ought to be put to the Secretary of State for War.
§ Sir G. JeffreysIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the case which gave rise to this Question there was no question of under-cutting prices or rates, and that the principal objection raised by the Musicians' Union was to the band in question playing in uniform? Can that be right?
§ Mr. IsaacsI can only say that it may be, but as I had no authority in the matter I did not intervene.