§ Mr. R. RICHARDSONasked the Minister for Labour whether he is aware that a permit has been granted to enable an alien saxophone expert and theatrical performer and entertainer to enter this country for the purpose of taking up employment under the Savoy Hotel management; that the reason given for granting the permit was that the admission into this country of this man would be of benefit to British musicians, who could watch the performance with the object of qualifying themselves for what is required by the present-day public; is he aware that there are many British musicians of great ability unable to find employment; and, if it be necessary to supervise and restrict the admission of aliens into this country, will he give instructions that permits shall be granted on more substantial grounds than those given in this particular case?
§ Sir M. BARLOWThese permits are required under Article 1 (3) (b) of the Aliens Order, 1920. In the case referred to, the Musicians' Union, in accordance with the ordinary procedure, was asked for its observations. It appeared that no unemployed British musician suitable for the vacancy was available, and, after carefully considering all the circumstances, I decided that I should not be justified in refusing a permit. The reason mentioned in the question was that put forward by the applicants, and formed no portion of my decision.