§ Mr. McENTEEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the 1096W fact that there are at present approximately 75 per cent. of civilian professional musicians unemployed, many of whom are unable to obtain unemployment benefit, he will arrange for the discontinuance of the practice of permitting the employment, by outside persons and authorities of bands and musicians of the Navy?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLNaval and Royal Marine bands are permitted to accept civil engagements because there is a public demand for their services, and they are not permitted to do so on terms which are lower than those which would be offered in the same circumstances to a civilian band. I see no reason for altering the present policy in this matter.
§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether, in view of the fact that there are at present approximately 75 per cent. of civilian professional musicians unemployed, many of whom are unable to obtain unemployment benefit, he will arrange for the discontinuance of the practice of permitting the employment by outside persons and authorities of bands and musicians of the Royal Air Force?
§ Sir P. SASSOONMy Noble Friend regrets that, though he has every sympathy for the civil musicians, he is unable to modify, in the case of the Royal Air Force, the long-standing policy of the Services in this matter. I should add that these bands are not allowed to seek employment through the Press or musical agencies.