War
Baghdad Railway
2.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the official circulation of Prince Lichnowsky's Memorandum, which contains a statement of public interest with regard to the support to be accorded by the British Government to German enterprises associated with the Baghdad Railway, he will now publish the terms of the agreement relating to this matter which was on the point of being signed by the British Foreign Secretary when the crisis of 1914 arose?
I would refer the hon. Member to the reply returned on the 15th March, 1915, to the hon. Member for Roxburghshire, and would add that the considerations on which that reply was based still retain their force.
May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the fact of the circulation of this Memorandum might be taken by the Government to signify that the statements made as regards the concessions to be made to Germany in connection with the Baghdad Treaty were correct?
I do not know, and the hon. Gentleman had better ask another Department as to the circulation of this document, to which I had nothing to add. But I am quite sure that no Government Department pledges itself as to the literal accuracy of every statement made in that document.
Why?
Why should it?
Arising out of that answer, inasmuch as this memorandum in pamphlet form of Prince Lichnowsky has been widely disseminated at the public expense, cannot it possibly be assumed that it did not contain radically false interpretations of our policy?
It is not suggested that it contains radical interpretations of policy. I do not know what the hon. Gentleman means.
If this is a question of the Memorandum containing concessions to Germany, is not that a radical matter as regards our foreign policy, and are not the public very possibly being misinformed?
The hon. Member is going a very long way from the question on the Paper.
Emperor Of Austria's Letter
3.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the fact that Prince Sixte de Bourbon paid two visits to England in connection with the peace proposals made by the Emperor Karl to President Poincaré and that he was in communication with the Prime Minister on the subject; whether the Prime Minister informed him that proposals for peace had been made; and, if so, at what date?
I have already explained to the House that this subject cannot, in my opinion, be properly dealt with by question and answer. I gather that it will be raised on the Adjournment.
May I point out to the right hon. Gentleman—
The hon. Member will probably have an opportunity in the course of the Debate.
Finland, The Ukraine, And Russia
4.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is intended to recognise the present de facto Governments of Finland, the Ukraine, and Russia, respectively?
The answer must be in the same terms as that which I gave to the question of the hon. Member for Hanley (Mr. Outhwaite).
I beg to give notice that I shall refer to this matter in the course of the Debate this afternoon.
May-Day Labour Celebration (Prohibition)
7.
asked the Home Secretary for what reason the May-Day labour demonstration proposed to be held in Finsbury Park on Sunday, 5th May, was proclaimed; whether he is aware that eight trades councils and over 100 trade union branches were to be represented at the demonstration; and who was responsible for the action taken?
This meeting was prohibited by an Order made by me under No. 9 A of the Defence of the Realm Regulations because I was satisfied from the information before me that if held it would give rise to grave disorder, and cause undue demands to be made on the police, and that the holding of certain processions which were being arranged in connection with the meeting would conduce to a breach of the peace.
The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative. I am, of course, responsible for the action taken.May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if it is the policy of his Department, whenever any organisation, for its own purpose, publishes a scheme for a meeting, to say that it will create a disturbance?
The hon. Gentleman is asking a general question, of which he must give notice.
May I ask whether there was from any quarter any manifestations of hostility to this meeting, apart from one newspaper, owned by the Director of Information, and edited by a gentleman named Blumenfeld?
I acted on the reports from the police, and not on what appeared in any newspaper.
Military Service
Conscientious Objectors
8.
asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a conflict at Knutsford between certain civilians and conscientious objectors; whether the conscientious objectors arm themselves with sticks for the purpose of defending themselves; and, if so, whether he will see that these men are drafted immediately into the Army so that their pugilistic tendencies may be utilised in the service of their country?
My attention has been called to this occurrence. I am informed by the chief constable that a series of attacks on conscientious objectors returning to their quarters at Knutsford developed on Sunday into an attack on fifty or sixty others who were standing outside the work centre. About half of these had sticks, apparently in anticipation of an attack, but only two or three of them were seen to defend themselves and these used their fists and not the sticks. The men were rushed by the crowd, who took possession of the sticks and used them. Summonses have been issued and the whole matter is being effectively dealt with.
Is it not right that the Military Service Act says that a conscientious objector is a man who objects to fighting, and surely this was fighting, and therefore they cannot be conscientious objectors?
The hon. Member is not asking a question, but is arguing the matter.
Is the same course taken with regard to conscientious objectors as against others? Are these conscientious objectors regarded as members of the public?
I think some of the summonses were against persons who assaulted others, but, of course, we are dealing with the whole matter.
79.
asked the Undersecretary of State for War if he will inquire into the case of Private Padgett, No. G/18289, 13th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment, now in No. 2 Military Prison, Rouen, formerly of the Royal Army Medical Corps, who has refused to obey military orders owing to a conscientious objection to military service; and whether he can be brought to England so that his case may come before the Central Tribunal, and an opportunity given him to undertake work of national importance?
I am making inquiries, and will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as I am in a position to do so.
Coal Miners
21.
asked the Minister of National Service if, in his calling up of miners, he has in mind the impending shortage of coal; and, if so, what methods does he propose to prevent a famine in fuel?
The Minister of National Service is glad to be able to assure my hon. Friend that the recruitment of coal miners has been adjusted in the closest co-operation with the Controller of Coal Mines, and the necessary steps are being taken to safeguard the output of coal.
Medical Instructions
23.
asked the Minister of National Service whether he is aware that the medical instructions to the National Service medical boards with regard to the grading of men of from forty- three to fifty-one years of age are not issued to the public, although the previous medical instructions for younger men were so issued; what is the reason of this differentiation; and whether the decision not to issue the latest instructions to the public may be reconsidered in the interest of equal treatment of older and younger men?
My hon. Friend appears to be under a misapprehension. National Service Instructions 87 and 88, of 1918, which deal with the Subject referred to by my hon. Friend, were circulated to Members of both Houses of Parliament immediatey after issue. They were widely published in the Press, and 10,000 copies were distributed to the Government information kiosks, where they can be obtained free on application.
Would the hon. Gentleman state whether other instructions are issued to the medical boards which have not been made public and are not available to the general public?
I am quite unable to answer that.
Appeals
24.
asked the Minister of National Service whether men of eighteen years of age coming within the operations of the Military Service Acts should appeal within the time allowed under the Act of 1916 or under Regulation R 185 of the Military Service Act, 1918?
Any applications to tribunals on the part of men coming within the operation of the Military Service Acts, 1916 to 1918, on attaining the age of eighteen, must be lodged within the limits of time provided in the Military Service Regulations, 1918, published under reference R185.
43.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether in all other industries except agriculture there is a right of appeal to an Appeal Tribunal, but, in the case of agriculture, there is no appeal unless leave is given by the Agricultural Executive Committee; and, if so, why this distinction is made against agriculture?
I have been asked to answer this question. In ordinary agricultural cases there is the same right of appeal as in other cases. As regards young men engaged in agriculture who, with others of the same age, come within the recent Proclamation, the limited right of applying to the Appeal Tribunal is given as a special concession.
Is it not the fact that there is no appeal to an Appeal Tribunal except with the leave of the War Agriculture Committee? Is that the case with agriculture and with no other industry?
That is the case; but certainly the War Agricultural Committee is very likely to view with very great favour any case on occupational grounds that comes before them. In other cases there is no right of appeal on occupational grounds for people who are within the ages and come within the Proclamation.
Medical Examination (Overseas Service)
80.
asked the Under secretary of State for War if he will further inquire into the allegation that the medical officer charged with the examination of the men of the furlough details recently attached to the 4th Battalion Welsh Fusiliers at Oswestry, but transferred on the 6th April to the 4th Reserve Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment; has been passing men as fit for overseas without a proper examination; will he inquire if a medical examination of these men was ordered for the Egyptian details, that the medical officer of the unit gave the medical examination which resulted in about thirty men being marked unfit, but that, on the following day, these men were again paraded for examination by the same doctor and practically all passed as fit, with the result that eleven of these men were taken ill and admitted to hospital on their arrival at Southampton, some of them having to be conveyed to hospital in ambulances; whether this medical officer has received instructions to pass these men as fit If they could travel at all; and will he say why these men have since been transferred to the 10th Battalion Liverpool Scottish?
I am making further inquiries, and will communicate with my hon. Friend in due course.
81.
asked the Under secretary of State for War if he will have a special medical examination made of Gunner 308049, B Company, 16th Battalion, Tank Corps, Bovington Camp, who is passed A 1 by a medical board, though suffering badly from glandular tuberculosis, with open wounds in the neck and abdomen, and who at the time of his classification as A 1 was awaiting instructions from the Glasgow Western Infirmary authorities to undergo a fourth operation for glandular tuberculosis; and will he further make inquiries as to why a youth in this physical condition was passed into the Army at all?
I will have inquiry made into this case, but I should be glad if my hon. Friend will furnish me privately with the man's name in order to avoid unnecessary correspondence with the Record Office.
Retired Indian Civilians
22.
asked the Minister of National Service whether Indian civilians retired upon an invalid pension at an earlier age than fifty-one are liable to Conscription into the ranks?
These men, if within the limits of age laid down by the Military Service (No. 2) Act, 1918, are liable under that Act in the same manner as any other men, and they have the same rights of application to tribunals for exemption as are possessed by other men in accordance with the Regulations for tribunals.
Defence Of The Realm Regulations
9.
asked the Home Secretary whether he has inquired into the case of Ellen Carter, who was, on 10th May, sentenced at Eastbourne to six months' imprisonment under Regulation 40 D; whether the two soldiers concerned in this case were called as witnesses; whether the woman underwent medical examination; and whether he will consider a reduction of this sentence?
I am making inquiry as to this case, and will let the hon. Member know the result.
Russian Subjects
10.
asked the Home Secretary if he can state the number of Russians, including Russian Jews, who have been allowed to come into this country since the 1st January this year; and if he can state the number of other aliens of friendly nationalities, not including those in navies or armies, who have come into this country since the same date?
Excluding Russian officers and soldiers passing through this country between France and Russia, 249 Russian passengers have been admitted since the 1st January last. A considerable proportion of these were en route to other countries, and in all cases the aliens officers were satisfied that there were good reasons for their admission. None of them were immigrants coming to settle here, and it is believed that (with the exception of one woman who was afterwards sent back to Russia) none were Jews. For the reasons explained to the hon. and gallant Member on previous occasions, I regret that the figures asked for in the second part of the question are not available.
Are Czechs and Poles included amongst the Russians, and can the right hon. Gentleman say what precautions are taken to prevent enemy aliens as well as Russians coming into this country under the pretence that they are Belgians, Frenchmen, or of some other nationality?
All Russian subjects are included in the figures I have given. As to nationality, the authorities verify the nationality of applicants.
County Hall, Westminster
12.
asked the First Commissioner of Works how many rooms are now utilised in the London County Council building at Westminster Bridge; and is it now in contemplation to utilise the workmen at present engaged on temporary buildings all over London in completing this permanent structure instead of engaging in work which must shortly be demolished?
One hundred and twenty-one rooms are now being utilised, and a further eighty-four rooms are being prepared for occupation. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.
Merchant Shipping
Standard Vessels
18.
asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether our available inland engineering resources are being utilised to the full extent for production of standard ships' engines, boilers, auxiliary machinery, fittings, frames, and plating preparatory to these being sent to shipbuilding yards for assembling?
Yes, Sir; the resources of inland engineering works are being utilised, as my hon. and gallant Friend suggests, to the fullest extent possible when the capacity of the constructional yards is taken into consideration. So far as ships' engines and boilers are concerned, some twenty-three engineering firms who had not previously been engaged on marine work are now building marine engines and boilers. All demands for auxiliaries can be met from the former manufacturers without utilising the services of firms who would be new to the work. Fittings, frames, and plating are now being manufactured by constructional engineers and bridge builders in various parts of the country, and when complete will be sent to the shipbuilding yards for assembling.
Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that there is a sufficient supply of skilled and unskilled labour for carrying out the work in the yards?
My right hon. Friend the Civil Lord of the Admiralty gave an answer last week on this subject in which he stated the view of the Controller-General of Merchant Shipping, who is satisfied that at the moment all practicable steps are being taken to utilise existing private yard facilities to the full.
And for this purpose?
I should think so for the time being, but if my hon. Friend will put a question on that point, I will obtain an answer.
Tonnage Handling
14.
asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if, with the object of ascertaining whether the most economical use is being made of our existing shipping tonnage, he will in the public in- terest publish monthly or other Returns showing the time and tonnage lost by reason of ships lying in harbour laden or partly laden, ships making passages only partly laden, ships making one port and having to discharge at another port, and delay in discharging or loading of ships?
I have been asked to reply to this question. As I indicated in reply to a similar question asked by my hon. and gallant Friend on the 8th May, it is hardly practicable to make such a Return. I may add that even if it were made it certainly would not show whether the most economical use is being made of tonnage.
"Spies In Bristol Channel" (Sir E Nicholl's Statement)
16.
asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether an explanation has yet been received from Commander Sir Edward Nicholl as to his statement that there were spies in every port in the Bristol Channel?
I am much obliged to my hon. Friend for putting this question.
It is due to Sir Edward Nicholl that I should say that my reply of the 1st May stating that he had been asked for an explanation by the War Office, which had not then been received, was incorrect. The War Office appear to have written to the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief under whom Sir Edward Nicholl had been serving, and that officer replied that Sir Edward Nicholl had ceased to hold his appointment under him on 1st September, 1917. The request for explanation did not therefore reach Sir Edward Nicholl, as I presumed it had done. Had it done so, I am sure he would have forwarded forthwith the grounds upon which on 3rd March he expressed the opinion already referred to. I have recently, however, had an opportunity of going into the matter pretty fully with Sir Edward Nicholl and hearing from him the grounds for his belief, stated on 3rd March, that there were spies in. the Bristol Channel. His statement, except in one particular, does not in fact add to the information already possessed at the Admiralty.Food Supplies
South Wick Camp (Rations)
17.
asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if he will inquire whether the non-commissioned officers and men of the Royal Marine Engineers, South-wick Camp, Sussex, who are on the home scale of rations, have 10 ozs. of fresh meat or 7½ozs. of preserved meat, seeing that by War Office letter, No. 53/Gen., No. 9,777 (Q.M.G. 6), dated 27th April, 1917, the scale which came into force on 1st May is 8 ozs. of fresh meat instead of 10 ozs., or 6 ozs. of preserved meat instead of 7½ozs.; and will he consider the fact that though the daily allowance of 5½d. is increased by this order to 6½d., this increase of 1d. is of no value, as the food is not good?
Since the reply to the previous question on this subject it has been ascertained that the Army scale of rations for home service has been reduced from the 1st May as follows:
Fresh meat— Reduced from 10 ozs. to 8 ozs. Preserved meat— Reduced from 7½ ozs. to 6 ozs. with a corresponding increase of the daily cash allowance from 5½d. to 6½d., and this amended scale will apply to the Royal Marine Engineers at Southwick Camp in common with other troops in the Home Forces. The question of some increase in this ration is now under consideration, but no decision has yet been arrived at. I have ascertained that there have been no complaints locally as to the quality of the ration, but only as to the quantity, and that I have dealt with above.In considering this matter will the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the fact mentioned in the last part of the question, namely, that it is little use raising the money ration allowance when there is no food there to purchase?
That is now being considered, but I assure my hon. Friend I that he is not correct in assuming that I the quality is bad. We have made inquiries, and so far as we know the quality has not being complained of. The quantity has.
Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in my first question the ground of complaint is the quantity?
I will take that from my hon. Friend. The point raised here is the quality.
Co-Operative Societies
33.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if he has received a communication from the Darwen Co-operative Society pointing out the invidious position in which the society is placed in regard to supplies of live stock, and that this society is the largest dealer in meat in the town, having twenty-two shops, and supplying probably three-quarters of the whole population; that they have now been classed as retailers, and have to look to their supplies to comparatively small wholesalers, and that in consequence their trade is being strangled and that their customers are not supplied; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter?
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. It has been decided that the Retail Meat Departments of the Darwen Co-operative Society cannot be granted privileges which are not accorded to other retail butchers, but the suggestion that the society has therefore necessarily to look for its supplies to comparatively small wholesalers, and that its trade is in consequence being strangled is unfounded. The proper course for the society to adopt is to join the Retail Butchers' Association for the district, when it will receive an allocation of live stock and dead meat in proportion to the number of its registered customers.
35.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the "Ministry of Food whether certain large traders in tea have stocks in excess of their requirements, whilst a number of co-operative stores find it impossible to obtain sufficient supplies, notwithstanding the increased allowance made to the Co-operative Wholesale Society recently, to supply co-operators with less than 1½ozs. of tea per unit per week, as ascertained by the units registered with them on the sugar-card indents; and, if so, whether steps will be taken to divert excessive supplies in certain traders' hands, in order to allow this deficiency to be made up?
Certain traders in tea have stocks in excess of their require- merits, but the present method of distribution is about to be replaced by a system under which supplies will be allotted on the basis of registered customers. The Ministry of Food has no information that any co-operative stores find it impossible to obtain sufficient supplies after the recent allowance made to the co-operative wholesale societies. If any such cases are brought to the notice of the Ministry they will be investigated.
Invalids' Rations (Greenock)
34.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that the Local Food Committee in Greenock were unable at times during the month of April to accept requests for extra rations for invalids under medical certificates because they had no cards in stock on which such applications for extra rations were bound to be made under the Department's Regulation; and, if so, will he see that cards of this type are not at any time wanting in the offices of all local food committees or that applications from invalids will be accepted in some other form?
A shortage of the special form in question was lately reported from Greenock, and immediate steps were taken to forward the necessary supply. Every effort is and will be made to prevent any local food office from running out of essential rationing documents. A food control committee would be justified in making suitable local arrangements for dealing with an emergency such as that described in the question.
Male And Female Workers
36.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether further consideration has been given to the representations made by the Deptford local food committee on the subject of the differentiation as to the issue of supplementary ration cards between male and female workers employed upon similar work; and, if so, will he state the result?
As my hon. Friend is aware, the subject of differentiation between male and female workers, together with other matters connected with supplementary rations, is under consideration by a Special Committee. No general decision has been reached.
National Kitchens
37.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if he is aware that, although the Department has repeatedly urged on local authorities the necessity for establishing national kitchens, difficulty has arisen in obtaining the necessary equipment through the refusal of the Ministry of Munitions to grant a sufficiently high priority number for the manufacture of kitchen utensils; and whether he will make representations to the Ministry of Munitions with a view to a higher priority number being granted, in order that local authorities may be enabled to comply with the requests of the Food Controller?
The Director of National Kitchens is satisfied with the priority accorded by the Ministry of Munitions, and arrangements have recently been made for the supply in substantial quantities of the raw materials required in the production of plant.
Sweetmeats
38.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if it is intended that the Sale of Sweetmeats (Restriction) Order, 1918, should apply to the distribution of sweets through the medium of automatic machines; and, if not, whether he will take steps in order that distribution by this method shall be discontinued as long as the restriction Order remains in force?
Existing automatic machines are expressly exempted from the operation of this Order, and, having regard to the extent to which their owners are dependent upon the sale of confectionery, I am not prepared to take the action suggested.
39.
asked if, in order that the object of the Sale of Sweetmeats (Restriction) Order, 1918, may be attained, and the small shopkeeper may be protected, it is the intention to include within the Order those multiple shops which are owned and carried on by whole sale firms and manufacturers of sweets?
The shops referred to will be dealt with under this Order on the same footing as all other shops. Steps are being taken to see that distribution is fairly carried out by the wholesale firms and manufacturers which will prevent these shops from receiving preferential treatment.
Butter
40.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether the many hinds in the county of Roxburgh who keep only one cow have been prohibited to sell the butter they make except to grocers; whether the result is a decrease of butter supplies, and an inability to make up for that by an increase of cheese supplies because of the absence of dairy rooms and appliances; and whether he will give considerate attention to such representations as may be made to him by these daily workers on farms who are losing a means of profit?
Under the Scottish scheme for the distribution of butter supplies it is necessary for producers selling direct to the consumer to register with the Local Food Control Committee, though they may sell to grocers without this formality. Grocers in Roxburghshire have in some cases refused to buy hinds' butter on account of the irregular quality, but it is hoped to arrange for the collection of this butter by Local Food Control Committees for use by bakers and biscuit makers.
Store Cattle
41.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether the Government are purchasing fat cattle in Ireland at prices higher than the maximum price of 75s. for fat cattle in the county of Roxburgh; whether the Food Controller allows cattle to be sold in Ire land to English buyers at prices up to £5 per live cwt.; and whether he is aware that the effect of the high prices prevailing in Ireland is to attract Irish half-fattened store cattle to the Irish markets so as to raise the price and reduce the condition of all store cattle sent to the feeder farmers of the county of Roxburgh, and with the increase of price making it difficult to buy store cattle at prices to allow any profit to feeders under the controlled maximum for fat cattle in that county?
The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As I have already stated, prices for fat cattle add in Ireland are not controlled, owing to the fact that it has not been found possible to set up grading machinery in Irish markets Fat cattle purchased in Ireland for slaughter in Great Britain must now, however, pass through markets in this country before slaughter, and be graded and allocated to butchers at the controlled prices. There is, therefore, no longer any inducement to British buyers to pay excessive prices for fat cattle in Ireland. I am aware of the effect upon, the sale of stores of the high prices recently paid in Ireland for fat cattle, but the arrangements already described in. regard to fat cattle entering Great Britain should effect a reduction in the price of stores. I may remind the hon. Baronet that the price of store cattle is not controlled, either in Ireland or in Great Britain.
Argentine Sheep And Cattle
42.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, having regard to the limited quantity of meat now available for distribution and the accompanying necessity for rationing and to the requirements of an increased supply of hides and skins essential for the manufacture of leather goods, space on the decks of steamers to carry live cattle and sheep from the Argentine as heretofore will be made available; is he aware that, as a result of such deck space being made available and the embargo removed from the importation of cattle and sheep from the Argentine, fresh offal, providing millions of cheap meals, would be obtainable; and, having regard to the present importance of this matter, will he take steps for the removal of the embargo?
It is considered inadvisable to encourage the importation of live cattle and sheep from the Argentine, in view of the fact that the limited freight space available can be more profitably utilised for the transport of other food products.
Is the hon. Member aware of the fact that, after all, the importation of meat requires enormous machinery in the hold of the vessel, whereas this deck space is unoccupied at the present, and for the purposes mentioned in the question might be utilised?
Well, in a general kind of way I am aware of those facts, but I cannot go into the details.
Will the hon. Gentleman convey the information to the Minister?
Boys' Supplementary Rations
44.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if his attention has been drawn to the refusal of local food control officers to issue the supplementary ration granted to boys under eighteen years of age to those just above that age who are awaiting their call to the Colours; and whether, in view of the importance of maintaining these prospective soldiers in full vigour, he will give instructions for the issue of the supplementary ration in such cases?
Boys who have received supplementary ration cards may continue to use them during the currency of the present issue notwithstanding that they attain the age of eighteen in the meantime. I am considering the case of boys between eighteen and nineteen who are awaiting their call to the Colours, and hope to arrange for the issue of the supplementary ration in their case.
Perthshire Agricultural Committee
58.
asked the Secretary for Scotland, as President of the Scottish Board of Agriculture, whether his attention has been called to the threatened resignation of the Perthshire Central District Agricultural Committee on account of several largo landowners in that district having refused to break up their share of grass land and then demanded advances of rent equal to double last year's rental for the grazing of the fields which they ought to have broken up; and, if so, what action the Board intends to take in such matters?
I am not aware of any such threat of resignation, but I am causing inquiry to be made.
Admiralty Employes, Hong Kong
18.
asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he has received a petition from the chargemen of trades, draughtsmen, and station supervisors stationed at Hong Kong Yard for some increase in pay to meet the increased cost of living; whether he is aware that these men have been denied the advance granted to the storehousemen, with the result that the latter are now in receipt of higher wages than the former; and whether he will reconsider the matter or have it submitted to the Government Conciliation and Arbitration Board?
Yes, Sir; such a petition has been received. We cannot agree that the circumstances warrant an increase in emoluments. The comparison between the storehousemen on the one hand and the chargemen, draughtsmen, and station supervisors on the other is misleading, because the conditions of service are different. As regards the last point in the question, the employés referred to by my hon. Friend wrote to the Conciliation and Arbitration Board, and that body informed them that it was outside their jurisdiction to deal with the emoluments of persons employed abroad.
Recruiting Offices, Houghton-Le-Spring
19 and 20.
asked the Minister of National Service (1) if he is aware of the discontent in the Houghton-le-Spring Division of Durham at the absence of a recruiting office at Hough-ton-le-Spring where information can be obtained, inquiries made, and enlistment and medical examination take place, and thus save much inconvenience and loss which is occasioned by persons having to travel to Sunderland, involving much loss; and if he will see that this want is remedied; and (2) if he is aware that a deputation, representing the Urban District Council of Hetton and the Rural District of Houghton-le-Spring, attended the headquarters of Northern regiments at Newcastle-on-Tyne to confer with the Deputy Director of Recruiting for the purpose of securing the reopening of the recently-closed recruiting office at Houghton-le-Spring, and left under the impression that such office would be reopened and used as the office of the National Service representative; and, if so, what reason prevents this request?
It will be convenient, with the permission of the House, to answer these questions together. The Minister of National Service was aware that the deputation to which my hon. Friend refers had visited the headquarters of the northern region at Newcastle-on-Tyne. The recruiting office at Houghton-le-Spring was closed after very careful consideration with a view to cutting down expense. The Minister of National Service regrets that it is not possible to provide a medical board nearer than. Sunderland, which is only 5½ miles distant.
The deputation was informed of the reasons which necessitated the closing of the Houghton-le-Spring Recruiting Office, but that it was hoped that one room would be retained as the office of the National Service representative. It was subsequently decided that it would be an unjustifiable expense to retain a room for that purpose as the object in view could be obtained by the National Service representative for Houghton-le-Spring continuing to use his own office in that town. The head office of all National Service representatives is now at the tribunal department at the Sunderland area headquarters which, as I have stated, is only 5½miles away.Is it not a fact that it will take a man a day to go to Sunderland and back, notwithstanding the distance of 5½miles pointed out by the hon. Gentleman, as there are several miles to travel to get to the railway station? Am I to gather from the reply that there really will be an office or representative in Houghton-le-Spring of the National Service Ministry?
Yes; at his own house.
Wood Thefts, Penrith Beacon
28.
asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to recent proceedings at the Penrith Police Court when three women were convicted of stealing wood valued at 2s., the property of the Controller of the Board of Trade Timber Supply, and were condemned to pay 5s. each for the costs of the prosecution; whether the wood stolen consisted of shavings and other waste resulting from the operations of the Canadian Forestry Corps in felling timber on Penrith Beacon; and whether, in view of the fact that according to their terms of employment the corps were under obligation to clear away this waste, and would have burnt it if it had not been taken away, he will give immediate instructions that poor persons in the neighbourhood of the beacon shall be allowed to take such waste for fuel, and will make Regulations enabling this to be done without risk of injury or loss of timber of value?
In the case referred to the wood was not waste which would have been burnt, but fuel wood intended for sale stolen from the Canadian sawmill. Permission was at first given to poor persons to remove waste wood and brush at Penrith, which would otherwise have been burnt, but the permission had to be cancelled because it was abused. The Controller of Timber Supplies would be pleased to give my hon. Friend full information in any such case.
Welsh Coal
27.
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the Welsh colliery owners have decided to reduce the Welsh household coal by 10s. per ton, to come into operation on 1st June; and whether the coal sent to London and other provincial towns will be reduced to the same extent?
There is no foundation for the suggestion that a reduction is to be made by the Welsh colliery owners in the price of household coal.
Civil Liabilities Committee (Assurance Policy Premiums)
28.
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Civil Liabilities Committee have power to pay the premiums on assurance policies of men called up for naval or military service who are unable to keep them up; and, if so, why so many of these policies have been lapsed?
Insurance premiums are included in the obligations in respect of which assistance is granted by the Civil Liabilities Committee to men called up for naval or military service, and I have no information that their policies are specially subject to lapsing.
If men apply to have their policies paid up by the Civil Liabilities Committee, are the Civil Liabilities Committee bound to consider the claims, and bound to pay them if they are good cases?
The hon. Member should give notice of that.
Gatwick Races (Special Trains)
29.
asked the President of the Board of. Trade whether two special trains were provided by the London, Brighton, and South Coast Railway for the use of race-goers attending the Gatwick races on Saturday last, and that tickets were issued to holders of special vouchers; if so, whether this arrangement was made with the knowledge and sanction of the Board of Trade; by what authority and under what conditions the special vouchers were issued; whether he is aware that a special undertaking was given in the House some months ago that no additional railway facilities would be provided in connection with race meetings; and whether effect will be given to this undertaking in future?
Two trains were run on the occasion referred to, engines and rolling stock being available without any interference with other demands on the railway. The object of the issue of vouchers was to restrict the number of passengers travelling to Gatwick, and is part of an arrangement which was made to secure that end. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. and learned Gentleman to the reply which was given on Thursday last to the right hon. Member for South Molton division.
Tuberculous Soldiers (Treatment And Training)
30.
asked the Pensions Minister what arrangements have been arrived at in conjunction with the Welsh National Memorial Association for the treatment and training of discharged soldiers who are suffering from tuberculosis; and what steps he proposes to take to expedite the provision of treatment for discharged men suffering from tuberculosis in Wales and Monmouthshire?
As explained in my answers to the hon. Member on the 28th November, 1917, and the 5th March, 1918. the responsibility for the treatment of discharged disabled men suffering from tuberculosis rests primarily with the Insurance Commissioners and Insurance Committees under the National Health Insurance Acts. No special arrangements have been made with the Welsh National Memorial Association other than arrangements for payment in cases of advanced tuberculosis, accommodated in existing sanatoria In view of the fact that the Welsh National Memorial Association have recently been able to make provision for cases from England, there would not appear to be any difficulty in securing accommodation for discharged men in Wales. If evidence of such difficulty is brought to my notice, I shall be glad to make representations to the proper quarter.
Naval And Military Pensions And Grants
32.
asked the Pensions Minister whether officers who have been invalided out of the Navy, Army, or Air Force and have been awarded gratuities on the ground that their disabilities have been neither caused nor aggravated by their service have the same right of appeal against the decision as is enjoyed by non-commissioned officers, and men; and, if so, whether an Appeal Tribunal for officers has been constituted?
The answer is in the affirmative; it is intended the officers should have the right of appeal already possessed by non-commissioned officers and men in regard to the question whether their disabilities were or were not attributable to or aggravated by their naval or military service. I constituted a special committee a short time ago, to which such cases have from time to time been referred, and I propose to ask this committee to form the tribunal for dealing with officers' appeals.
Do I understand that tribunal will be operating at once in any case that comes before them?
Yes, certainly. As a matter of fact, they have operated in one or two cases already.
Is it retrospective in its effect?
Certainly. Just as the men's tribunal deals with all cases of rejection in previous years, so, similarly, cases of rejection in the past may be brought forward in the case of officers.
48.
asked the Prime Minister if the Government will appoint a Committee to reconsider the question of allowances to soldiers' wives and dependants, with a view of adopting such methods as the experience of the last three years suggests?
I have been asked to answer this question. I am not aware of any difficulties in the system as now worked which rendered a new Committee necessary.
War Cabinet Committees
45.
asked the Prime Minister whether he can state the number of Committees created by the War Cabinet?
The total number of Committees and Sub-committees set up by the War Cabinet is ninety-five.
Is that in addition to the two or three which have been set up by the War Cabinet itself?
That is the number set up by the War Cabinet. I cannot give particulars of the others.
Foreign Second Chambers (Memoranda)
46.
asked the Prime Minister whether he will publish the Memoranda on Foreign Second Chambers, written by distinguished foreigners for the Second Chamber Conference, and referred to by Lord Bryce in his letter?
I have not seen the Memoranda referred to. I shall, however, communicate with Lord Bryce on the subject, and if the hon. Member will put his question down again after the Recess, I hope to be able to reply to it.
Ministry Of Information
47.
asked the Prime Minister if he will say how many officials have resigned their positions in the Minis try of Propaganda since 10th February; whether he can state the reasons which induced them to resign and how many of these officials have been transferred to the Foreign Office; whether the Foreign Office has a Propaganda Department of its own; and whether he can assure the House that steps have been taken to prevent competition and overlapping between these two Departments?
Since the 10th February two officials of the Ministry of Information have resigned, one to take a post in another Government Department, the other because of the reconstruction of the section of which he had been in charge. Apart from these, in accordance with the decision taken before the Ministry of Information was established, the staff of the former Intelligence Bureau of the Department of Information was transferred to the Foreign Office. The Foreign Office has no Propaganda Department.
Does the Ministry of Information refer to the Foreign Office pamphlets, and so on, dealing with foreign affairs?
It is obvious that there must be close connection between the two Departments. I do not suggest it will be possible that everything should be referred to my right hon. Friend.
Why is it sometimes done, and was the Memorandum of Prince Lichnowsky referred to the Foreign Office?
I think I must have notice of that.
German Banks
50.
asked the Prime Minister whether land has been bought or is about to be bought for a new German bank in London; and, if so, whether it is the policy of the Government to allow Germans to carry on business in their own banks in this country after the War?
I have not heard of any proposal of such a transaction as is suggested in the question, which I feel sure would be illegal.
57.
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the length of the term for which new premises in Bishops gate Street have been taken for the London agency of the Deutsche Bank and the reasons why the particular length of term was decided, on?
The tenancy of the premises has been taken for a period expiring six months after the declaration of peace. It was a matter of no little difficulty to obtain suitable premises, and the terms of the lease were the best that could be made in the circumstances.
American Army (Insurance)
51.
asked the Prime Minister whether the American Government have instituted a scheme for insuring all their men serving in the Navy and Army; and, if so, could he say what the conditions of that scheme are and whether it could be applied to our own sailors and soldiers?
I am aware that the United States Government have instituted an insurance scheme, but, in view of the pension schemes which have been adopted in this country, I do not think that a scheme of this kind could now be adopted here.
Is not this scheme much more favourable to the men than the schemes in this country?
I think we must judge as to what it is possible to do by our own position. I think the House is always inclined to be generous in the matter.
Would the Prime Minister look into the point as to the lapsing of these men's policies, and, in view of the small amounts payable, consider whether or not it is possible for the Government to insure them?
That is really another question, of which I shall require notice.
British High Command, France
52.
asked the Prime Minister whether any change has taken place or is contemplated in the High Command in France?
No change has taken place nor is any in contemplation. I may say, however, that, in my opinion, this is a question which ought not to be asked, and in future I shall decline to answer any question of the kind.
Arising out of that reply, will the right hon. Gentleman discourage statements in the official Press which indicate that such changes are in contemplation.
I do not know what the hon. Gentleman means by the "official Press." Certainly anything of the kind is much to be deprecated, wherever it occurs.
Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been called to the statement in an article by Mr. Lovat Eraser in the "Daily Mail" to the effect that the end of the "old military gang" was in contemplation?
Order, order!
Notice must be given of that question.
Does not the reply of the right hon. Gentleman show that this is a question which ought to have been put, in view of the rumours there are abroad that General Haig has resigned or has been dismissed?
No; I think if the hon. Member looks at the question he will see that it is the kind of question which the Government obviously could not at all times answer; and if such a question could not always be answered, it is the kind of question which ought not to be put.
Government Of Ireland Bill
54.
asked the Prime Minister whether he can now fix a date for the promised Government of Ireland Bill; and whether, in order to ease the present tension in Ireland, he will assure the House that no draft Order in Council for the application of military Conscription in Ireland will be presented until the promised Bill is assured of passing into law?
I cannot add anything to my previous replies on this subject.
Government Departments (Balance-Sheets)
55.
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, as the Ministry of Munitions have now undertaken to keep proper books and furnish balance-sheets, he can undertake that all the other Government Departments which are temporarily carrying on import, productive, or distributive businesses will be made to furnish balance-sheets, giving particulars of their operations, and showing the cost, profit, and loss incurred for the year ending 31st March, 1918, or some other convenient period; and whether he can have these laid before the House in each case as early as possible?
All Government Departments which are temporarily carrying on business of this kind are required by the Treasury to furnish balance-sheets giving information as suggested in the question. The question of publishing an abstract of the information is under consideration.
Is there any objection to laying the results of this trading before the House?
I say it is under consideration—yes, I think there might be many objections.
Discharged And Disabled Soldiers (Training)
60.
asked what arrangements have been made in Scotland for the training of disabled and discharged soldiers in forestry and in agricultural pursuits?
Arrangements have been, or are, in the course of being made by the Board of Agriculture for Scotland to facilitate the training of disabled and discharged soldiers as working foresters, foreman foresters, and market gardeners, and for horticulture, bee, pig, and poultry keeping, and farm work generally. I cannot enter into full details within the limits of a Parliamentary answer, but if my hon. and learned Friend desires it I shall be glad to send him a note of the schemes which are proceeding.
Has a school of forestry for discharged soldiers not recently been opened in Scotland?
I cannot, without notice, say whether it has actually been opened, but certainly it is in course of preparation.
Munitions
Cannel Coal (By-Products)
61.
asked the Minister of Munitions if the product now being obtained from the distillation of cannel coal at gasworks is of any value as Admiralty fuel; and whether the offer by the Controller of the Munitions Mineral Oil Department of a £2,000 prize to any person who can make a satisfactory mixture of dehydrated coal-tar and petroleum does not indicate that low temperature distillation would be better adapted for the production of liquid fuel from cannel coal?
My hon. Friend has been called away on important business and has asked me to answer this question. It is expected that the product now being obtained from the distillation of cannel coal at gas works will be of considerable value as an Admiralty fuel. The prize offered by the Controller of Munitions Mineral Oil Production Department is for a different purpose altogether, having as its object the utilisation as fuel, in addition to cannel oil, large quantities of tar at present available from gas works not using cannel.
Will my hon. Friend consider the desirability of offering a similar prize for the best method of desulphurising the Dorset and Norfolk shales?
Well, that is obviously a matter that I cannot answer. No doubt my right hon. Friend will consider the desirability of taking this course.
Royal Arsenal Co-Operative Society (Motor Vehicles)
62.
asked the Minister of Munitions if he is aware that since December last correspondence has passed between the Royal Arsenal Co-operative Society and the Director of Mechanical Transport regarding the release of a Dennis chassis which the society had been endeavouring to obtain since May of 1916; that upon the outbreak of war certain of the society's mechanical vehicles were commandeered; and that since then no new vehicles have been purchased, with the result that the existing fleet is fast wearing out, rendering it necessary that the Dennis chassis should be released in order that the distribution of foodstuffs through the society's 100 depots and shops may be continued; and whether he will inquire into the matter with a view to the chassis in question being released?
Inquiries are being made into this matter, and the result will be communicated to my hon. Friend.
Messrs Workman And Clark (Agreement With Employes)
63.
asked the Minister of Munitions whether he is aware that Messrs. Workman and Clark, shipbuilders, of Belfast, a controlled establishment, have drawn up an agreement for the clerks engaged in their counting house and their timekeepers, stipulating as a condition of employment that these employés shall not be connected with in any way any organisation of a trade union character; and whether, in view of the provisions of the Munitions of War Act, he will say what action he proposes to take?
My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I am afraid the answer is rather long. I understand that the firm in question have not drawn up any such agreement for their clerks in the counting-house, but have drawn up one for their timekeepers.
The provisions of the Munitions of War Acts, to which my hon. Friend refers, are apparently Section 4 (3) of the Act of 1915, Section 12 of the Act of 1916, and Section 9 of the Act of 1917. The effect of these enactments, so far as they bear, if at all, on the point now raised, appears shortly to be this:Registration Forms
65.
asked the President of the Local Government Board whether his attention has been called to the case of a woman householder who refused to fill up or have anything to do with Form A, she stating that in her belief it was an attempt on the part of the Government to conscript her for military service; and whether he will consider the desirability of issuing a simple form which can be easily understood by uneducated persons, and which will not give rise to misapprehension of this character?
My right hon. Friend the President of the Local Government Board has not had his attention drawn to this particular case. It would be impossible to frame a form, however simple, which would not give rise to misapprehension on the part of some persons, educated or uneducated.
66, 67, and 68.
asked the President of the Local Government Board (1) whether he is aware that in some parishes the percentage of forms (Form A) returned by householders incorrectly filled up is as high as 70 per cent., in which cases it is necessary for the forms to be returned for completion or correction, involving repeated calls by canvassers and consequent delay in compiling the lists; whether he is aware that the inability to fill up the form is due to its complex nature rather than to lack of intelligence on the part of the householder; whether there is any real prospect of the register being printed by the date fixed by the Order in Council; and, if not, what steps he proposes to take in the matter;
(2) whether he has received any reports from registration officers, overseers, or others, as to the relative numbers or the percentage of postcards received from naval and military voters abroad claiming to be entered upon the electors' lists, in accordance with the arrangement outlined in the Memorandum R. P. 7, issued by his Department; whether he is able to give any estimate of the proportion of such voters who are likely to be disfranchised in consequence of the non-receipt by registration officers of such postcards; whether the system is working satisfactorily; and, if not, whether he will consider the desirability of arranging for an extension of the time within which the register is to be completed, in order that the names of all persons entitled to be registered may be entered in the lists; and (3) whether he has received from registration officers any representations as to the impossibility of completing the register of electors within the prescribed time; and, if so, whether he will consider the question of extending the time in order to ensure that the register shall be complete and accurate?My right hon. Friend is aware that in many districts considerable difficulties are experienced by registration officers in getting the information necessary to enable them to publish the lists in the time prescribed by the Order-in-Council and that these difficulties arise from a variety of causes. The question of & short postponement of dates for the preparation of the lists is under consideration.
Will the hon. Gentleman state whether it is proposed, as suggested in one of these questions, to use a simpler form for the guidance of the people who have to fill them up?
Would it not have been much better if instructions had been given for a house-to-house canvass?
Circulars have been sent out to the registration officers impressing upon them the desirability of making, wherever possible, a house-to-house canvass. That is distinctly laid down in the circular. As to the simpler form, it is not so easy as the hon. Member may think, and simplicity itself sometimes leads to greater difficulties.
Does my hon. Friend think the form sent out is the last word in simplicity?
If a longer period is given, will the hon. Member see that longer time is given for the inspection of the register in order to ensure that everyone will have an opportunity of seeing whether his or her name is on the register?
It is quite impossible to promise that, but the whole matter is receiving very careful consideration. On the one hand, it is impossible to make it a long period, and, on the other, it is desirable that a reasonable time should be given.
Interned British Subjects (Holland)
69.
asked the hon. Member for Sheffield (Central Division) if he is satisfied that British subjects interned in Holland are receiving a sufficient amount of food?
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave yesterday to questions on this subject by my hon. Friend the Member for Bradford West.
Hire Of Vessels (France And Italy)
70.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller if he is now able to state the amount of monthly hire paid by the French and Italian Governments, respectively, to a vessel of their own nationality of 4,800 tons gross register, 12 knots speed, and 7,500 tons dead-weight capacity, when requisitioned by them?
As to France, it would seem that for a vessel of the type, size, and speed referred to, and assuming that the vessel has not changed hands during the War and that the rate of depreciation adopted by the owner during the War is not more than 5 per cent. per annum, the French owner would-receive, under requisition, about 13s. 3d. per gross ton per month, owners paying the whole coat of crews' wages and not merely the pre-war cost, and the French Government taking the marine risk As to Italy, I am not yet in a position to furnish the information desired by my hon. Friend as to the Italian terms.
School Teachers
71.
asked the President of the Board of Education the number of additional teachers who will be required to supply, after twelve months, the deficiencies of teachers in elementary and secondary schools, and the additional number required if the Education Bill passes into law and becomes fully operative after twelve months; whether he has sanctioned the release of a large number of teachers from schools for military service; and how he proposes to supply the existing and prospective demand for trained teachers?
It is not possible to deal with the first point within the limits of a question and answer. It is estimated that over 20,000 teachers have been released from service in elementary schools and about 2,500 from Grant-aided secondary schools. The problem of increasing the supply of teachers is engaging my constant and anxious attention.
Has the right hon. Gentleman not recently within the last few days released a large number more of teachers, and how does he square that with his policy under the Education Bill?
I think the two lines of policy are compatible. It is obviously necessary in the military urgency that some additional teachers should be released. That, of course, is regrettable, but at the same time I am hoping to improve the conditions of the teaching profession and make it sufficiently attractive to cause more candidates to come forward.
Army Medical Services
73.
asked the Undersecretary of State for War whether it is proposed to appoint a Committee of inquiry into the Army medical services in this country and in the Eastern theatres of war, with a view to the better utilisation of the services of medical men in the Royal Army Medical Corps?
The answer is in the negative.
Can the hon. Gentleman give the original terms of reference to this Committee?
No, Sir.
74.
asked the Under secretary of State for War whether the recommendations contained in the Report of the Committee appointed to inquire into the medical services in France contained any proposals for the reorganisation of the service with a view to utilising; to the fullest degree medical officers who are at present serving in the Army Medical Corps; and, if so, whether he can now state the reasons for withholding the publication of this Report to Parliament?
I am afraid I can add nothing to the reply which I gave to my hon. and gallant Friend on the 2nd May.
Can the hon. Member; give any indication as to what the recommendations of this Committee were?
I am quite willing to see my hon. and gallant Friend privately, and give him any information I have.
90.
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether it is intended to raise the pay of the Territorial officer, Royal Army Medical Corps, so as to place him on the same footing as a temporary medical officer?
I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer which I gave on the 21st February last to my hon. Friend the Member for the West Derby Division of Liverpool.
Retired Officers
75.
asked whether an officer of His Majesty's Special Reserve of Officers who has been placed on the Retired List in consequence of wounds, But who has not relinquished his commission, is entitled to the gratuity awarded to officers who have left the service and also to the issue of a service rendered badge?
An officer in such circumstances would be entitled to the gratuity under Article 497 of the Royal Warrant and also to wear the silver war badge.
77.
asked whether officers of His Majesty's Special Reserve of Officers who have been placed on the re tired list in consequence of wounds, who are described in the Army List as non- effective officers and who clearly still hold His Majesty's commission, are debarred from wearing uniform?
Officers of the Special Reserve on the Retired List are permitted to wear uniform when employed in a military capacity, and on ceremonial occasions of a military nature.
British Prisoners Of War (Treatment)
76.
asked the Undersecretary of State for War if he is now in a position to make a statement concerning the treatment of British prisoners; whether the stipulations of the military convention of January, 1917, are being infringed; and, if so, what retaliatory measures it is proposed to take?
This matter has been referred to the War Cabinet, but I am afraid I can add nothing at present to the reply which I gave my hon. and gallant Friend on the 2nd May.
Machine Gun Corps, Grantham
78.
asked the Under secretary of State for War if he will have inquiry made into the way in which the men of the Machine Gun Corps, No. 1 Reserve Battalion, Belton Park Camp, Grantham, are being treated, having to rise at 5.30 in the morning, and, with the exception of three short intervals for meals, are kept hard at work on physical training, rifle drill, company drill, and so on, until 6.30, and on the second day have to mount guard in the evening until 7 a.m. next morning, when they have to fall in at the usual drills without an interval?
I am having inquiries made, and will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as possible.
Red Cross Society, Kirkcud-Brightshire
82.
asked the Undersecretary of State for War whether he is aware that on Christmas Day, 1917, a number of members of the Voluntary Aid Detachment of the Red Cross Society of Kirkcudbrightshire received notice of dismissal owing to an alleged breach of discipline, and that their request to allow them to be heard in their own defence has been rejected by all their superior officers; whether he is aware that these ladies have given years of devoted service gratuitously, and what steps he proposes to take to secure justice for these ladies?
These ladies were serving in a voluntary hospital under the administration of the Scottish Red Cross Society, and I am afraid that it is not a matter in which I can intervene.
Has the War Office nothing to do with this detachment?
Nothing at all. This hospital is administered by the Red Cross Society.
Canadian And American Women (Repatriation)
15.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether any arrangements have been made by his Department to utilise the steamers returning to America by repatriating Canadian and American women desirous of going back; and is he aware that many prospective brides have been waiting for years for some arrangement for ship accommodation being made by his Department?
On behalf of the Department concerned, I have to say that advantage is taken of suitable opportunities to repatriate Canadian women and children, and the selection of the passengers to embark is made in consultation with the Departments and Dominion representatives concerned. With regard to prospective brides, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply of 5th February, a copy of which I am sending him. I believe arrangements are made by the United States authorities for repatriating American women.
Income Tax (Bonus Shares)
56.
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether bonus shares, resulting from the capitalisation of undistributed profits, are treated as income or as capital in respect of taxation?
It is a fundamental principle of the Income Tax Acts to charge Income Tax upon all profits at the source whether they are distributed or not. As regards bonus shares issued in respect of accumulated taxed profits, the question whether they fall to be included in the computation of the total income of the person receiving them is one which can only be determined by reference to the particular facts.
General Maurice
( by Private Notice)
asked the Home Secretary whether the letter from General Maurice appearing in yesterday's "Daily Chronicle" was submitted to the Censor before publication; if so, were any portions of the original letter deleted by the Censor?
This letter was submitted to the Censor before publication, and some words were deleted by him. I may add that I have looked into the matter and am satisfied that the words in question were properly deleted.
May I ask whether the words that were deleted were so deleted because it was considered that they would give information to the enemy or be prejudicial to this country and the Allies, and if it was not upon those grounds, by whose authority were they deleted on any other ground?
The words in question were deleted because they contained a reference to a secret document to which General Maurice had had access by virtue of his official position, and because the words, if published, would, I think, have given a wrong impression of the contents of that document.
May I ask if it in offence against the Defence of the Realm Act—
That is a legal question,, which requires notice.
Proportional Representation
( by Private Notice)
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the hon. Baronet the Member for Ayr Burghs (Sir G. Younger) sent out on behalf of the Executive of the National Unionist Association a three-lined Whip against proportional representation urging Unionist Members to vote against the Commissioners' scheme, and whether he does not consider this a breach of the promise made that this Division should be free from the influence of party Whips?
I am not aware, nor was my Noble Friend the Patronage Secretary, of the fact mentioned in the question, and I have not had an opportunity of consulting my hon. Friend (Sir G. Younger), who is in Scotland. I find, however, that, as chairman of the committee referred to, my hon. Friend did send out this Whip, but I learn also that during the passage of the Franchise Bill he occasionally sent out Whips in favour of Amendments against which I voted. It must not be overlooked that my hon. Friend has no official connection with the Government.
Would my right hon. Friend say whether he does not think that there is some inconsistency in the Unionist machine being used in connection with a matter which he admits is an open question in the Unionist party?
Yes; I should prefer saying nothing about this until I have consulted my hon. Friend, but I think the members of our party who take a different view have a grievance, if anyone has a grievance. It is really the result of the relaxation of party discipline which results from a Coalition Government.
May I take ft for granted that this Whip was not sent out from the Government Whip's office?
Most certainly; and the Government Whips know nothing whatever about it.
Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Whip against proportional representation sent out by the hon. Member for Westminster (Mr. Burdett-Coutts) was sent out from the Government Whip's office, or at any rate was prepared there?
That is another question of which the hon. Member has given no notice.
Order Of The British Empire
( by Private Notice)
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the statement in the Canadian Press that the Colonial Office is responsible for the creation of the Order of the British Empire, and that the Colonial Secretary has repeatedly pressed the Prime Minister of Canada to submit lists of recommendations, and if he can give the House any information on this subject?
I am obliged to my hon. Friend for giving me an opportunity of making a statement on this matter, as to which considerable misapprehension seems to exist. The Colonial Office was not consulted on the question of creating the Order of the British Empire, as this arose out of considerations which had no special reference to the Dominions or Colonies. But when it was decided to make use of this Order for the purpose of recognising notable war service rendered by civilians of both sexes in this country, I claimed that services of no less merit had been rendered in the Dominions and that it should be made possible for their Prime Ministers, if they thought fit, to submit names for similar recognition on precisely the same scale as that adopted here. My claim was readily allowed, and, after ascertaining the scale proposed for this country, I communicated to the various Governors-General and the Governor of Newfoundland the number of honours in each of the five classes of the Order for which it would be open to their Prime Ministers to make recommendations. I think I made it perfectly clear that the numbers given represented merely an upward limit, and that within those numbers it was—as, of course, it must have been—entirely a matter for the Prime Minister's discretion to put forward as many or as few names as he chose, or, indeed, to put forward none at all if he so decided.
May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, before making these representations, he inquired of the representatives of the Overseas Dominions in this country whether the countries they represented were desirous of an extension of these shoddy ornaments?