HC Deb 02 July 1962 vol 662 cc12-3W
Commander Pursey

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty why Her Majesty's Royal Marines (Portsmouth Group) Band was engaged to play in Kensington Gardens and Regents Park on Sunday, 17th June, 1962; who engaged the band and under what conditions as regards expense and insurance; what was the cost; for what period the band was away from normal duty at Portsmouth; what period was duty time; and who was the naval authority responsible for approving the engagement.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

The band was engaged by the Royal Parks Division of the Ministry of Works to provide music for the general public. It was a private engagement, approved by the Major-General, Royal Marines, Portsmouth, and undertaken in the band's off-duty time on Sunday, 17th June. The entire cost, including insurance, of £79 15s. was paid by the Ministry of Works. The band was not on duty or required for duty at Portsmouth on the day of the engagement.

Commander Pursey

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty why Her Majesty's Royal Marines Plymouth Band was engaged to play in the Victoria Embankment Gardens on Wednesday, 13th June, at 12.30 and 7.30; who engaged the band and under what conditions as regards expenses and insurance; what was the cost; for what period the band was away from normal duty at Plymouth; what period was duty time; and who was the naval authority responsbile for approving the engagement.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

The band was engaged by the Parks Department of the London County Council to provide music for the general public. The engagement was for the week ending Saturday, 16th June, and was a private engagement approved by the Major-General, Royal Marines, Plymouth. The London County Council paid the entire cost, including insurance, of £385. The band was not on duty or required for duty at Plymouth during the week in question.