§ Mr. HAYDAYasked the Minister of Labour whether he has issued permits to any American bands to land in this country; whether any conditions are attached to the granting of these permits; and whether, in view of the fact that the reason for maintaining the system of permits is to safeguard employment in this country, regard will be had to the large number of British musicians now out of employment?
§ Sir M. BARLOW:A few permits have been issued under Article 1 (3) (b) of the Aliens Order, 1920, to enable American bands to come to this country. The conditions imposed vary somewhat, having regard to the circumstances of the case, but, in general. first, the employer is required to ensure the departure of an alien band of approximately equal size, and second, to engage a number of English bandsmen equal to the number of alien 1808W bandsmen for whom a permit is granted. In most cases the aliens are admitted for a limited period only, and it is a condition of their contract of employment that on its termination they shall leave the country. Before granting a permit, full consideration is given to any observations which the Musicians' Union may wish to make.