India
Abattoir, Lahore
1.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India why the scheme for the construction of an abattoir at Lahore has been abandoned; and what, if any, is the actual monetary loss resulting from the abandonment?
Before reaching any decision as to the construction of the abattoir or the acceptance of the scheme, the Government of India had taken great care to make sure that there was no risk of its giving any offence to religious susceptibilities. They had received formal assurance to that effect from the Government of the Punjab who, before giving that assurance, had themselves made careful inquiries from representative Hindus. It was solely in the confidence that no such offence was involved, that the Government of India decided to proceed with this scheme, which had great possibilities of economic and other advantages. Subsequently, however, it became clear that, for whatever reason, apprehensions had been aroused that an offence to religious susceptibilities would be involved in proceeding with the scheme. In these circumstances the Government of India did not feel justified in proceeding further with it. The latest estimate of the probable losses involved which I have received from the Government of India is from Rs.10 lakhs to Rs.16 lakhs, to which must be added the still undefined liabilities of Government under the cold storage project
North-West Frontier Operations
4.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he will give particulars of the latest report received on the conditions in Waziristan, North-West Frontier; the number of British and Indian forces that are at present concentrated in that area; and the approximate cost to date of the operations there?
I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the question asked by my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Lewes (Rear-Admiral Beamish) on 8th November, and to the communique subsequently issued by the Government of India on 17th November, of which I will send him a copy. Reports since that date indicate that there is now a good prospect of a settlement with the Bhittanni tribe. It is understood that the troops employed in the area, the number of which is given in the communique, are now being gradually reduced, with a view to reverting to the normal garrison; and that the cost of the operations up to the end of October was about £1,200,000
Can the Noble Lord say to what extent the number of troops has been reduced?
No; but I think several battalions have gone.
Prisoners (Releases)
3.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India how many prisoners have been released in India since the 1st July and by which Provinces; and how does the total compare with the total for the corresponding months in 1936.
I presume that my hon. and gallant Friend refers to premature releases only. I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a statement giving approximate figures for the various Provinces in so far as it has been possible to collect and classify them in the time available. I understand that in the United Provinces, in accordance with a practice which has been followed in the past, the Government has decided, for reasons of economy and similar considerations, to release in the immediate future about 3,000 prisoners who are serving short terms of imprisonment or whose sentences are shortly due to expire. Prisoners serving sentences for violent crimes, e.g., dacoities, would not be eligible for release. Similar orders have also been passed in Bengal.
Does not the Noble Lord consider that in the past these large releases have been followed by recrudescences of crime; and does he not think that these releases now, will have a depressing effect on Indian officers in the police?
All considerations were taken into account, and we most certainly hope that the releases will not have the effect suggested.
| — | Prisoners prematurely released 1st July to 30th September, 1936. | Prisoners prematurely released 1st July to 30th September, 1937. | |||
| Under ordinary rules. | For special reasons. | Under ordinary rules. | For special reasons. | ||
| Madras | … | 103 | 3 | 220 | 50 |
| Bombay | … | Not available | 0 | Not available | 8 |
| Bengal | … | 159 | 1 | 133 | 7 |
| United Provinces | … | 130 | 62 | 305 | 63 |
| Punjab | … | 3* | Not available | 4* | 26 |
| Bihar | … | Not available | Not available | Not available | 21 |
| Central Provinces | … | 55 | 0 | 58 | 6 |
| Assam | … | 87 | 1 | 39 | 5 |
| North-West Frontier Province | … | Not available | 27 | Not available | 77 |
| Sind | … | 10 | 1 | 59 | 0 |
| Orissa | … | 8 | Not available | 7 | 1 |
* These figures relate to releases on grounds of sickness only. | |||||
General Neill Statue
5.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he will ask the Government of India to select a site for the statue of General Neill, which has been removed, by order of the Congress Ministry, from the position it has occupied in the town of Madras for 77 years?
I understand that the matter is under consideration in India.
Does not the Noble Lord consider that this surrender to anti-British feeling will have deplorable effects in India, where there are only 200,000 Europeans against 350,000,000 Indians?
Has the Governor of the Province no power to prevent this insult to the memory of a distinguished British General, which is also very offensive to Europeans in India?
We have no official information as to what has happened, but I do not think that the comments of my hon. and gallant Friend are justified.
How many of the persons concerned were imprisoned without charge or trial?
I could not say without notice.
Is it not a good thing to trust to the man on the spot in these matters?
Following is the statement:
Is it not true that this General's statue has been removed from a prominent position in Madras and relegated to a museum?
If it is so, I regret that it should have happened.
Will the Noble Lord inquire what are the reasons for the removal of this statue?
61.
asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he can find a site in London on which the statue of General Neill, which has recently been removed by decree of Congress from the place on which it has stood for more than a generation in the main street of Madras, may be erected, so that his distinguished services and death in the Indian Mutiny may be suitably remembered?
I understand that the fate of this statue is still under consideration in India.
Have we not quite enough statues already?
Argentine Transport Co- Ordination Act
6.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will inquire of the Argentine Government whether, following the appointment of a chairman, the Minister of Public Works has yet issued instructions for the election of representatives to form the commission under the Argentine Transport Coordination Act passed a year ago, as the continued delay in putting the law into effect is causing hardship to British subjects?
I understand that the Minister of Public Works has not yet issued instructions for the election of representatives to form the commission. The companies are, however, in communication with the Minister of Public Works in the matter. No request for assistance has been received from the British companies concerned, but should they make such a request my right hon. Friend will always be ready to instruct His Majesty's Ambassador at Buenos Aires to afford them such support as is in his power.
Spain
7.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many refugees were evacuated from Gijon in British ships before the occupation of that town by the Nationalist forces; how many of these were combatants; and whether these were sent on to Barcelona by the French Government?
While I have no figures covering the whole period previous to the fall of Gijon, I am informed that 24,849 Spanish refugees were evacuated from the Asturian coast by British merchant vessels between 17th August and 8th October, and 1,350 refugees were picked up outside Gijon by His Majesty's ships. It had been agreed between His Majesty's Government and the French Government last July that Spanish refugees fit for military service should not be allowed to land in France. Every effort was made to ensure that this arrangement was carried out. At the same time, I understand that in the chaotic situation exsiting on the Asturian coast 2,598 Spanish men of military age were embarked by British merchant vessels between 25th August and 25th October, of whom approximately one-half were wounded, and landed at Pauillac. I have no precise information as to what has subsequentiy happened to these men.
Has the Noble Lord seen the report in the Press to the effect that about half of these people were sent to fight in Catalonia against the Nationalist forces?
I have already pointed out that it was intended that no men of military age should be disembarked, but, as my hon. and gallant Friend will realise, the situation on that coast has been exceedingly confused.
How many Germans and Italians were taken in German and Italian ships to assist General Franco?
Has that anything to do with it?
9.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the appointment of a Minister Plenipotentiary at Barcelona, he will say if any change is to take place in the diplomatic representation of His Majesty's Government in Spain; whether His Majesty's Ambassador at Hendaye is to be withdrawn; and whether any alternative arrangements are being made?
21.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether arrangements have been or are being made for the British Ambassador to Spain to take up his residence in Barcelona; and, if so, when will these arrangements be effective?
No, Sir. His Majesty's Government are not at present contemplating any change in their diplomatic representation in Spain as a result of the promotion of His Majesty's Chargé d'Affaires at Barcelona to the rank of Minister Plenipotentiary.
What is the British Ambassador doing at Hendaye? Is it not the case that we have at Barcelona a Minister Plenipotentiary, and officially have we not diplomatic and business relations with General Franco? What, then, is the Ambassador at Hendaye doing?
The Ambassador at Hendaye is accredited to Spain. At present there are two authorities in Spain, one of whom we recognise and the other of whom we do not recognise. At Barcelona, therefore, we have a Minister Plenipotentiary and in the other case we have commercial agents to protect our commercial interests.
May I have an answer to my question? What is the Ambassador at Hendaye doing?
Both the minister and the agents I have mentioned are subordinate to the Ambassador at Hendaye.
Is the French Ambassador carrying out his duties at Barcelona?
11.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the French Embassy to Barcelona include naval, military, and air attaches; and whether His Majesty's Government have similar officials who can observe the military situation on the Government side in the Spanish civil war?
I cannot undertake to give official information concerning the staffs of foreign missions abroad. So far as His Majesty's Government are concerned, assistant military and air attaches have been serving at His Majesty's Embassy at Madrid and subsequently at Valencia since last December, and are still attached. No occasion has yet arisen for the appointment of a separate naval attaché.
Is it not desirable to have a naval attaché, in view of the importance of affairs in the Mediterranean just now?
There is a naval attaché for the countries—France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands—whose services are available when necessary, and as far as naval liaison arrangements are concerned, up to now they have been satisfactorily made through His Majesty's diplomatic and consular representatives and His Majesty's ships that are available.
Is it not because of the absence of a naval attaché that our naval information has been so unreliable?
I do not believe that our naval information has been unreliable.
Is the Noble Lord satisfied that His Majesty's Government can get fully adequate information about the military and naval situation on the Government side?
Yes, otherwise we should make other arrangements.
Can the Noble Lord say when a naval attaché last visited Spain?
15.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the British trade agents in all parts of Spain are now in a position to furnish regular reports upon commercial developments and prospects for trade relations with Great Britain; and whether, in that case, it is proposed to publish them?
The Commercial Counsellor to His Majesty's Embassy at Hendaye and various Consular officers in Spain have been, since the present troubles began, continuously at their posts. As regards the territories under the control of General Franco, no new appointments have, with the exception of the Chief Agent, yet been made in pursuance of the recent arrangement made between His Majesty's Government and General Franco. The question of the publication of reports received from His Majesty's Consular and Commercial Diplomatic Officers abroad is a matter for decision by the competent Department of His Majesty's Government, in the light of the circumstances obtaining when the reports are received.
Are any reports available to commercial interests in this country through the Department of Overseas Trade?
I should like notice of that question.
26.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will cause to be published a statement giving details of the zones allotted to the various Powers taking part in the naval patrol under the Nyon Agreement?
I regret that I am not yet in a position to make a statement on this subject.
Will the Noble Lord make inquiries with a view to making the statement asked for?
I cannot say any more than that, but I can assure the hon. Member that there will be no avoidable delay.
Is the Noble Lord aware that he is singularly uncommunicative?
As we understand that these zones have been in operation now for several weeks, why cannot the House be informed as to what they are?
It is a question not only for us, but for the other signatories of the Treaty as well.
Is it not of great importance for British shipping to know where the Italian zone is in order that they may avoid it?
75.
asked the President of the Board of Trade how many ships belonging to individual Spaniards or to Spanish companies are now in British ports; and whether any of these have been seized by persons acting on the authority of the Spanish Government?
I have been asked to reply. As regards the first part of the question, according to information published in the shipping Press, 41 vessels flying the Spanish flag were in British ports on 24th November. As regards the second part of the question, I am informed by the Admiralty Marshal that an examination of the actions which have been started in the Admiralty Division in the course of this year in respect of Spanish vessels now in ports in this country reveals that in the case of 19 vessels persons claiming to be the owners have instituted proceedings causing the vessels to be arrested in order to obtain possession of the vessels from persons who had taken them over, claiming to be acting in accordance with a requisitioning Decree of the Spanish Government, and the Spanish Government have entered conditional appearances claiming that they were in possession and were entitled thereto under the Decree of requisition, and further claiming that as a Sovereign State in the above circumstances the Writs should be set aside. Some of these cases have been before the Court and are now under appeal. Pending the decision of the Court, the vessels concerned are now in the custody of the Admiralty Marshal.
Does "this country" include Scotland?
I am afraid I cannot say. I will look into it and let the hon. Gentleman know.
Palestine
Partition Proposals
8.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the proposal for the partition of Palestine has yet been discussed with the Government of the neighbouring Arab States; and, if so, what opinion they have expressed?
As was explained in the reply given to the hon. Member for Wolverhampton, East (Mr. Mander) on 17th November, His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are responsible, as Mandatory for Palestine, to the League of Nations and not to particular foreign Governments. The Governments of the neighbouring Arab States have, however, like other Governments having a special interest in the question, been kept fully informed. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Wolverhampton, East, on 10th November.
Is it not the case that these objections have been made by neighbouring Arab states; and will it not place the Jews in an impossible position, if you carry out partition and leave them in a small tract of land surrounded by hostile people?
I have already explained that this is not a matter between His Majesty's Government and individual states, but between His Majesty's Government and the League of Nations.
Is it not possible for the Government to deal with this question in the way outlined in the Mandate, instead of in this manner which will not be helpful to either Jew or Arab?
Are we to understand that all hope of administering the existing Mandate has been abandoned in favour of this plan?
Tel Aviv (Drainage)
64.
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when the plans for the new drainage scheme for Tel Aviv, in Palestine, were first submitted to the Palestine Government; and whether he can arrange that this scheme is given approval in some form at the earliest possible opportunity, in order to ensure the health of the large population concerned?
The consulting engineers' plans for the drainage scheme were submitted to the Palestine Government in March last. Further progress depends on the completion of satisfactory arrangements for financing the scheme which is a matter of some difficulty at the present time.
Will the Minister be good enough to answer the first part of the question, which is when the plans for the new drainage scheme for Tel Aviv, in Palestine, were first submitted to the Palestine Government.
In the spring.
The spring of which year?
This year.
65.
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can give the assurance that all possible assistance is being given by the Government of Palestine to the municipality of Tel Aviv in raising the projected loan of £1,000,000; and whether full consideration has been given to the small debt of this city in relation to its annual revenue of approximately £500, 000?
Every endeavour is being made to assist the municipality of Tel Aviv in connection with the projected loan. The amount of the municipality's existing debt has not, of course, been overlooked.
Is the Minister not aware of the terrific danger to 130,000 persons due to the absence of any drainage scheme?
I agree with the hon. Gentleman, but he will realise that negotiations are proceeding at the moment for a loan, and that it is not a very easy matter.
Portugal (British Military Mission)
10.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in what circumstances the projected military mission to Portugal has been postponed; and whether he can give the date of its probable departure?
16.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the proposed British military mission has yet proceeded to Lisbon; and, if not, on what date is it expected to proceed there?
It has been decided that a military mission shall visit Portugal in February, 1938, for the purpose of establishing personal contacts with the appropriate authorities and of reviewing matters of common interest. A fuller announcement on this subject will be published simultaneously in Portugal and in this country to-morrow.
Why did the postponement take place? Was there any objection raised by a third Government?
No, Sir.
Brazil And Argentina (British Investors)
13.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the income on our investments in foreign countries helps to maintain our national standard of living; and will he, in order to defend that standard, intervene by more definite diplomatic assistance to meet the treatment by Brazil and Argentina of British investments, which is depriving British nationals of their income, the British Exchequer of Income Tax and revenue from Death. Duties, owing to the wiping out of capital values?
My right hon. Friend is aware of the issues involved. When British interests are threatened by the direct unilateral action of a foreign Government, His Majesty's Government are always ready to take energetic steps to protect such interests. The hon. Member will be aware of the representations recently made to the Brazilian Government in regard to the suspension of the service of the external debt. No such question arises in the case of the Argentine. The position of British capital invested in public utility companies is, as my hon. Friend will appreciate, some- what different. In this case, direct negotiations between the companies and the foreign Governments concerned constitute, in the opinion of His Majesty's Government, the best method for dealing with the questions involved. My right hon. Friend is, however, always ready to give any assistance that is possible at the request of the companies.
Is it not difficult for the countries concerned to meet their liabilities in regard to British investments if we insist on placing restrictions on the importation of their goods into this country?
Have His Majesty's Government had any further reply from the Brazilian Government on the representations which they have made?
I should like notice of that question.
Has the Noble Lord any difficulty in answering my simple question?
35.
asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he will request His Majesty's commercial secretary at Rio de Janeiro to provide a report on the position of those Brazilian railways in which British capital is invested; and will he inform the Brazilian Government that His Majesty's Government will require that the treatment of British capital in those railways shall be part of any proposals of the Brazilian authorities in respect of the defaulted Brazilian public obligations to British subjects?
I have been asked to reply. With regard to the first part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the publication of His Majesty's Stationery Office entitled "Report on Economic and Commercial Conditions in Brazil," dated September, 1936. It is hoped that it will be possible to publish a similar report for the year 1937. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I have to-day given to a question by the hon. Member for Lincoln (Mr. Liddall).
China And Japan
17.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in connection with the international settlement at Shanghai, there are leases from the Chinese Government to the Governments concerned or only leases to individuals?
Land in the international settlement at Shanghai in foreign ownership, even though purchased outright from private vendors, is regarded as held on perpetual lease from the Chinese Government, and the title deeds are issued by the local Chinese authority in the form of leases in perpetuity. Properties in Shanghai are held in this way, both by foreign Governments and by individuals.
Is it possible for the conditions under which the Settlement is administered to be varied without the consent of the Chinese Government?
I think that is a different question. This is a question partly of interpretation of the land regulations. As I explained on Friday, it is an exceedingly difficult and technical subject.
Is it not a fact that the land regulations were made with the Chinese Government and cannot, therefore, be varied without the consent of the Chinese Government?
That is true. They cannot be modified without the consent of the Chinese Government. All that I was saying was that what comes within the regulations is a very difficult question.
Is it the case that there are no instruments between the Chinese Government and the Governments concerned which regulate these matters?
19.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any estimate has been made as to the damage to British property done by the Japanese at Shanghai; and whether any claim has been or will be made on the Japanese Government by Great Britain?
No, Sir, it is as yet too early to make any such estimate; as regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Preston (Mr. Moreing) on 8th November.
Does not the Noble Lord think it is time that some estimate was made as to the financial losses to British interests, now that the damage has been going on for a very long time?
His Majesty's Consul-General at Shanghai, as was explained the other day, has been instructed to receive and file such claims.
20.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether there has yet been any formal declaration of war by Japan on China; and, if so, when?
No, Sir.
Does it not mean that the damage done to British interests is quite illegal, as there has been no declaration of war, and is there any precedent for damage to property on a large scale without a previous declaration of war?
(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the recent statement of Prince Konoe, the Prime Minister of Japan, that it may be necessary for Japan to take military control of the Shanghai International Settlement; and whether any steps are being taken by His Majesty's Government in conjunction with the United States and French Governments to safeguard their treaty rights, including those of China?
I have seen in the Press a report of remarks by Prince Konoe on this subject, which do not seem to bear the interpretation put upon them by the question. In particular, there is no specific reference to the International Settlement. I am making further inquiries with a view to elucidating the matter. In the meantime, His Majesty's Government are maintaining close touch with the United States and French Governments with a view to the safeguarding of their mutual treaty rights and other interests.
Will the Far Eastern situation be discussed with the French Prime Minister, who is now in London?
International Conversations
18.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the international conversations now taking place in which this country participates are to be extended to any Powers other than Germany, France and Belgium?
If my hon. Friend means visits from foreign statesmen to this country, and visits by His Majesty's Ministers to foreign countries, the answer is that no further visits of such a nature have been arranged.
22.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will assure the House that, in the negotiations which are taking place with other Powers, nothing will be suggested or agreed to which will prevent this country from fulfilling its obligations under the League of Nations Covenant, and before any pact is agreed to, the League Council will be consulted?
By Article 20 of the Covenant the members of the League of Nations solemnly undertake that they will not enter into any engagements inconsistent with the terms of the Covenant. His Majesty's Government, of course, abide by this undertaking.
Can we take it from that reply that there is no truth whatever in the rumours which are very prevalent and in the statements which have been made in certain reliable American newspapers regarding the recent negotiations?
The hon. Member can take it that what I have said is the fact.
47.
asked the Prime Minister whether he will take advantage of the visit of the French Prime Minister to make it clear that the obligations of His Majesty's Government under the League Covenant will apply equally whether aggression takes place in the Eastern or Western parts of Europe?
48.
asked the Prime Minister whether it remains a prime object of British policy that there should be no interference from any quarter with the integrity and independence of Austria; and whether, in the pending conversations with the French Prime Minister, he will be guided by this principle without variation as well as by our existing undertakings to and understandings with France?
I would refer the hon. Members to recent statements on the foreign policy of His Majesty's Government by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, to which I have nothing to add. I cannot undertake to make any statement on the subject of the conversations now proceeding.
Do not these questions show the anxiety of the Socialist party lest this country should be left out of any future war?
Is my right hon. Friend's answer to be interpreted to mean that we are not under an obligation to go to war with everybody and everywhere?
Czechoslovakia (German Minorities)
23.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any steps are being taken through the League of Nations to deal with the alleged grievances of German minorities in Czechoslovakia?
So far as I am aware, there is no petition on behalf of the German minority in Czechoslovakia at present before the League of Nations.
Russia And Japan
24.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement concerning the present relationship of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and Japan in the Far East, as affecting British subjects and British trade there?
It would be improper for me to attempt to make authoritative statements in regard to the relations obtaining between foreign Powers. I am not aware that any British subjects or interest has been adversely or otherwise affected by the relations at present existing between the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and Japan.
Russia (School Text Books)
25.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has come to any decision regarding the question of making representations to the Russian Government concerning the contents of certain text books on English in use in Government schools in Russia; and, if so, what that decision is?
No, Sir. The matter is still under consideration.
Can the Noble Lord say when he is likely to come to a decision in this matter?
I am afraid I cannot, but there will be no avoidable delay.
Is the Noble Lord prepared to assure the Russian Government that they will remove from school histories in this country lying statements about Soviet Russia?
Aerial Warfare (Civil Populations)
27.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, having regard to the apparent weakening of international law forbidding the bombing of civil populations and open towns, he can state which of the present Governments of Europe are explicitly bound to abstain from bacteriological warfare; what are the latest provisions of international law on this subject; and whether His Majesty's Government have had any recent discussions with foreign Governments in regard thereto?
As regards the first part of the question, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate the desired information in the OFFICIAL REPORT. As regards the second part of the question, the Protocol of 17th June, 1925, for the Prohibition of the Use in War of Asphyxiating, Poisonous Gases and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare is still binding on all the States which have ratified or acceded to it. As regards the third part of the question, the answer is, No. Sir.
Having regard to the fact that foreign Governments appear to have weakened in their adhesion to the provisions regarding bombing, will the Noble Lord ascertain whether there has been any similar weakening with regard to the provisions relating to bacteriological warfare?
No, because there is no evidence that there has been any weakening.
Has not Japan weakened already by its bombing of civilians in China?
This question relates to bacteriological warfare.
Following is the information:
The following European States have ratified or definitely acceded to the Protocol of 17th June, 1925, for the prohibition of the use in war of asphyxiating, poisonous and other gases and of bacteriological methods of warfare:—Austria, Belgium, United Kingdom, Irish Free State, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Roumania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, Yugoslavia.
49.
asked the Prime Minister what are the current instruments of international law on the subject of bombing civil populations; whether any provisions cover the case of military objectives such as railway stations, power stations, and factories which are situated in populous areas and are defended only by anti-aircraft guns; what is the policy of the Government in regard to British offensive action in the event of war against such objectives; and whether His Majesty's Government are fully apprised of the present attitude of foreign Governments towards this question?
The question asked by the hon. Member raises a number of difficult issues which I do not think can be dealt with satisfactorily in the form of question and answer. The hon. Member may rest assured that His Majesty's Government will have all due regard to humanitarian considerations in any military operations which may be undertaken by this country.
Will the right hon. Gentleman direct his attention in particular to the special case mentioned in the question, namely, a military objective such as railway stations in the middle of populous areas defended only by antiaircraft guns, and will he answer that point if I put down a specific question?
I think the answer I gave applies to that situation. I doubt very much whether the sort of question the hon. Member indicated can be dealt with satisfactorily in the necessarily brief answer to a question.
Naval And Military Pensions And Grants
28.
asked the Minister of Pensions whether when he has completed his tour of Ministry offices and institutions, and consulted the chairmen and representatives of war pensions committees, he will consider the position of ex-service men who claim that they are suffering from war disability but up to the present have not been able to get full recognition?
The Ministry is at all times prepared to give further consideration to any rejected claim if additional evidence in support of it is produced. The consultations which I have had with representatives of War pensions committees have proved useful in many respects, but they have not given me any indication that the Ministry's arrangements for dealing with the class of case referred to are inadequate.
29.
asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is now in a position to give a reply to the deputation of hon. Members whom he received in February of this year?
I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave the hon. Member on the 2nd instant.
Will the hon. Gentleman inform us when he expects to be able to give a reply? Will it be within a reasonable time?
I cannot give any further information at the moment.
Has not sufficient evidence accumulated about the position of ex-service men to justify action in the matter?
If the hon. Gentleman has any evidence, I shall be glad if he will produce it.
In spite of the constant submission of evidence by Members of this House, is nothing to he done?
If the hon. Gentleman means individual cases, I frequently go into them with hon. Members.
30.
asked the Minister of Pensions whether he has considered the reports of the investigations made into the position of ex-service men by the British Legion and other organisations; is it proposed to publish the same; and what action is contemplated?
I understand that the results of the inquiry instituted by the British Legion will probably be communicated to the Government in the first week of the New Year. Until they are received I cannot say what action, if any, may be taken upon them.
What steps are to be taken about the general complaints there are about cases that have been refused consideration?
The hon. Member refers to general complaints, but I can only act on specific evidence. If he will produce that I will act on it.
Is the Minister aware that there are no opportunities for producing specific evidence, and that that is why we are asking for an inquiry?
The hon. Member can produce specific evidence any time he likes.
32.
asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware of the widespread and growing discontent at the refusal of pensions to many disabled ex-service men and their dependants; and whether he will introduce legislation which will give local authorities the power to set up appeal committees to reconsider all such cases, and provide that the evidence of each applicant's medical adviser should be accepted as definitive with regard to such claims?
No, Sir. Under existing legislation any man whose claim is not admitted can lodge a complaint with his local War pensions committee which contains representatives of local authorities in the area. It is the duty of the committee to investigate all such complaints and report on them to the Ministry. I have found that this system is working satisfactorily.
Does the Minister make the decision although the local committee is in a better position to judge?
Certainly not. The local committee investigates the complaint and submits it to the Minister.
Is not the local committee in a better position to judge than somebody in London, and will the hon. Gentleman take steps to let the local committee make the decision?
How many complaints which have been favourably considered by the local pensions committees have been rejected by the Minister?
Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.
Is the Minister aware that in almost every street in the country there are men who have been disabled in the war and are refused pensions?
If the hon. Member can substantiate that I shall be glad if he will produce the evidence.
Is it not a fact that there is a general feeling in the country that these cases are very sympathetically considered and fairly dealt with, not only by himself, but by the local committees?
33.
asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in view of the fact that the 166 local War pensions committees are the statutory medium for all complaints from claimants affected by decisions of the Ministry, he can find more practicable methods of maintaining a closer liaison between the Ministry and these committees than is afforded by the visits which he is able personally to pay them?
The object which my hon. and gallant Friend has in view has already appealed to me. I have now instituted arrangements whereby senior officers of the Ministry will from time to time visit localities and discuss with chairmen of committees individually particular cases or general matters about which they may find difficulty. Furthermore, the chief area officers of the Ministry are instructed to visit the headquarters of the Ministry periodically in order to make themselves familiar with every branch of the Ministry's work and policy as well as to discuss matters of difficulty in their areas.
Trade And Commerce
Special Register Service
34.
asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department the number of firms or persons who are on the special register of his Department for the purpose of obtaining information respecting goods required by foreign countries; what is the fee paid for the same; does the information sent to such firms comprise details as to contracts open to tender abroad; and will he give particulars of any other information that is supplied in this manner to firms and persons in foreign countries?
The number of subscribers to the Department's Special Register Service is 2,425. The fee for the service is £1 1s. a year, or £2 4s. 6d. if it includes the supply of the Board of Trade Journal. The information given to subscribers includes particulars of contracts open to tender abroad. Firms
| STATUTORY GAS UNDERTAKINGS. | |||||||
Companies' Undertakings.
| |||||||
| Year | Total Capital (share and stock) paid up | Total Loan Capital (including debenture stock) issued | Revenue Account. | ||||
| Receipts. | Expenditure. | Profit. | |||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |||
| 1935 | … | … | 96,221,711 | 43,877,559 | 45,029,940 | 37,508,247 | 7,521,693 |
Local Authorities Undertakings.
| ||||||||
| Year. | Total amount of money borrowed. | Total amount of loans repaid and balance in Sinking Fund. | Revenue Account. | Interest paid on loans, amount of loans repaid and amount placed to Sinking Fund. | Net Profit. | |||
| Receipts | Expenditure | Gross Profit. | ||||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| 1935–6* | … | 80,558,245 | 53,747,376 | 21,607,015 | 17,579,561 | 4,027,454 | 3,228,676 | 798,778 |
* The financial year of the Local Authorities Undertakings runs from 1st April to 31st March. | ||||||||
| NOTE.—Corresponding figures for 1936 and 1936–37 will not be available for some time. | ||||||||
Abyssinia
36.
asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether any British trade still exists in Abyssinia; and, if so, whether he can slate its nature?
Present economic conditions in Ethiopia render accurate and persons in foreign countries are not eligible for admission to the Service.
Is the Minister satisfied with the number of firms that obtain this information and make use of it?
If they did not think the information was worth the money they would not pay for it.
Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that they make use of the information?
Gas Undertakings
76.
asked the President of the Board of Trade the profits of all gas undertakings in Great Britain for the years 1935 and 1936?
The information for 1936 is not yet available, but, with the hon. Member's permission, I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT the figures in respect of 1935.
Following are the figures:
commercial intelligence most difficult to acquire. No figures of Ethiopian trade have been issued since the Italian occupation. Such information as I possess tends to show that while trade between this country and Ethiopia is almost nonexistent at present, some United Kingdom firms are considering the possibility of securing in the future a share of such trade as may be available.
Have we any commercial representative in that country?
Yes, Sir. We have consular representatives there.
Does the hon. Gentleman mean that the country is still unsettled in spite of Italian control?
Is the hon. Gentleman aware that his information that British trade has almost ceased to exist in Abyssinia will give great satisfaction to the supporters of Mussolini who will be found in this House?
Agriculture
Italian Plums (Import)
37.
asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps the Government are taking to prevent an undue quantity of Italian plums being imported into this country next year, in view of the substantial increase in the amount imported in 1937 compared with 1936, and in view of the difficulties experienced by home-growers last season?
I have been asked to reply. The bulk of the imports of Italian plums are of the dessert variety, and normally arrive before the English plum crop is on the market. Foreign plums are already subject to an import duty of 1d. per 1b., which was equivalent to about 23 per cent. ad valorem in the 1937 plum season. It is, of course, open to growers at any time, if they think it desirable to do so, to submit an application for a higher duty to the Import Duties Advisory Committee. As regards the alternative of quantitative regulation of imports, I would remind my hon. Friend that under the Agricultural Marketing Act, 1933, imports can be regulated only in association with a marketing scheme covering the home product. No such scheme for plums is in operation or, so far as I am aware, in preparation.
Are the Government aware of the great hardship of the growers in the Vale of Evesham this year, and of their desperate plight to get any price for their plums; and will any steps be taken before next season to assist these men, who are some of the finest people in the country?
My hon. Friend will realise that the bulk of these plums arrive before the English plums come on the market. If he will study the last part of the answer, he will see that certain steps are possible for bringing assistance to the plum growers.
Electricity Supply
38.
asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps the Government are taking to ensure a cheap supply of electricity for the farmers throughout the country further to assist them to keep their production costs as low as possible?
As the House was informed by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport on 3rd March last, the Government have decided to adopt, in principle, subject to certain modifications in detail, the recommendations of the McGowan Committee for a reorganisation of electricity supply. The legislation will be directed among other matters to facilitating and expediting electrical development in rural areas.
Do the Government really understand the desirability of a low cost for electricity, and whether low cost of electricity means lower cost of production, that cheaper production means cheaper food, and that we ought to have cheaper food in this country?
I can assure my hon. Friend that that consideration is thoroughly appreciated.
Rabbits (Damage)
39.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the development of the Government's grassland improvement policy is being seriously impeded by the damage done by rabbits, and that the neglect of his Department to deal with the rabbit menace is leading to extensions of the rabbit industry which will make its control more difficult in the future; and can he say when he will introduce legislation to deal with this problem?
While my right hon. Friend cannot altogether accept the inferences underlying the first part of the hon. Member's question, he has under consideration the question of legislation to give effect to the recommendations of the Select Committee of the House of Lords who recently reported on the measures which ought to be taken in regard to rabbits, but he is not in a position to say whether it will be possible to introduce legislation this Session.
Output
40.
asked the Minister of Agriculture what is the value of the total agricultural output of Great Britain at the date for which the latest figures are available compared with the value of the total output ascertainable on 14th November, 1935?
The value of agricultural produce sold to the non-farming community by producers in Great Britain, together with the value of home produce consumed in farm households, is estimated to have been approximately £245,000,000 in the year ended 31st May, 1936, the latest year for which figures are available. This is the same as the figure for the year 1934–35 and compares with £234,000,000 for the year ended 31st May, 1934. The figures given do not include cattle subsidy and wheat deficiency payments.
Can my hon. Friend say whether that is the gross figure or the net?
I am not sure that I can answer that question now. Perhaps my hon. Friend will put it down.
Do those figures include the production on farms in connection with hospitals?
They include the value of agricultural produce sold to the non-farming community.
Wages
41.
asked the Minister of Agriculture the average statutory level of agricultural wages in force 1:o-day in England and that in force in Norfolk, respectively, including any future wage rates agreed upon, compared with those in force on 14th November, 1935?
The average of the weekly minimum wages for ordinary adult male agricultural workers fixed by the various agricultural wages committees in England and Wales, including revised rates which agricultural wages committees have given notice of proposal to fix, is 34s. per week, the corresponding average on 14th November, 1935, being 31s. 10½d. per week. The present minimum rate in Norfolk for such workers is 33s. 6d. per week, but the Norfolk Agricultural Wages Committee has given notice of a proposal to increase it to 34s. 6d. as from 26th December. The corresponding rate in force in Norfolk on 24th November, 1935, was 31s. 6d. per week. As I have indicated, these are minimum rates. No comparable figures are available as to the wages actually paid to agricultural workers.
Does the Minister think we shall get A-1 men on wages like that?
Cheap Milk Scheme
43.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether milk is now sold to pregnant and nursing mothers and to preschool children, other than necessitous mothers and children, at less than the standard price in any of the distressed areas beyond the Rhondda Valley, Jarrow, and Walker-on-Tyne; and whether he will give all relevant figures since the inception of the scheme so as to bring up to date his reply of 17th July?
With regard to the first part of the question, a further experimental scheme for the supply of milk at cheap rates to expectant and nursing mothers and children under five years of age came into operation on 1st October, 1937, at Whitehaven, Cumberland. With regard to the second part of the question, I am forwarding to my hon. Friend a statement giving the detailed information for which she asks.
May I ask my hon. Friend whether it is the intention of the Government to continue these experiments elsewhere?
Yes, certainly.
Will the Minister try these experiments at the other end of life, where there are old-age pensioners who are living on 10s. a week?
Richmond And Gordon Estates (Purchase)
42.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether the purchase of the Richmond and Gordon estates in Scotland by the Crown Lands Commissioners has been completed; what is the total acreage involved; the price paid; and whether he can state the uses to which the land is to be put?
The transactions for the purchase of about 90,000 acres of land from the Duke of Richmond and Gordon have not yet been completed, and my right hon. Friend is afraid, therefore, that he is unable to state the price. As was explained on 25th November, in reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Dudley (Mr. Joel), under the Crown Lands Acts all sums received for or in respect of sales or exchanges of any part of the possessions of the Crown are required normally to be invested in land, the agricultural properties acquired under this provision generally continue to be used for the same purposes as in the past.
Can the Minister say why, out of so many estates in Britain this is the one to be acquired by the Crown Lands Commissioners? Why have they chosen this particular estate?
I presume because the land was for sale and was suitable.
Is it not the general plan of the Government to withhold from the prospective vendor the name of the prospective purchaser, and why were the proprietors of this estate informed that the Crown Lands Commissioners were in the market for it?
I do not think I can add anything more to what I have said, because the transaction is not yet completed.
My question has reference to the initiation of the transaction. Why were the vendors allowed to know that the Government were in the market?
Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.
Post Office
Telephone Exchange, Victoria
44.
asked the Postmaster-General when it is anticipated that the Victoria telephone exchange will be converted from manual to automatic operation; and if, in the meantime, he will see what steps can be taken to improve the existing service?
The work of installing automatic apparatus at the Victoria exchange has begun and completion is expected about the end of 1938. The service deteriorated during the early part of this year partly owing to the pressure arising out of the Coronation and partly from the building operations connected with the conversion to automatic working. The difficulties have now been substantially reduced and additional staff and equipment have been provided. Observations show that the service given by the exchange has been greatly improved and further improvement is anticipated.
Telephone Toll Calls (Outer London)
50.
asked the Postmaster-General whether he is prepared to extend the area of 2d. toll calls beyond 12½ miles from Oxford Circus to include such Outer London exchanges as Romford, Ingrebourne, Upminster, and Rainham, where the use of the telephone is hindered by the high cost of the frequent calls to the central areas of London?
No, Sir. The charge for a call is based on the radial distance between the exchanges concerned. Thus, the charge for calls to exchanges within 5 miles of the originating exchange is 1d., to those between 5 and 7½ miles away 2d., and to those between 7½ and 12½ miles away 3d., and so on. In addition, subscribers on such exchanges as Romford, Ingrebourne, Upminster and Rainham on the outskirts of London have the advantage that no more than 3d. is charged for calls to all exchanges within 5 miles of Oxford Circus, even though many of these exchanges are more than 12½ miles away from the originating exchange. The areas covered by the respective charges in these cases are less than those applicable to subscribers within the To miles radius, but the latter have to pay a higher rental charge.
Employés (Tuberculosis Research Tests)
52.
asked the Postmaster-General how many employés are undergoing the inoculation tests sanctioned by him; where the tests take place; how many hours off work have been involved to those undergoing the test; and why the results are not to be communicated to his Department?
307 members of the staff have undergone the tests. The tests have taken place in a room on official premises, and have involved less than an hour's absence in each case from official work. At the request of the Staff Associations the results are not communicated to the Department, and this request is, in my opinion, a reasonable one.
Does the Minister realise that his Department is incurring considerable discredit by the dangerous experiments which he is permitting upon his staff?
No, Sir. As I have already informed the hon. Member, these experiments are not dangerous.
54.
asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that there is eminent medical testimony supporting the view that the employment of the Mantoux reaction test is not devoid of danger to those who undergo it; and will he, therefore, take further steps to assure himself that the experiments to which he has-consented are justified?
I am not aware of any such medical testimony. On the contrary I am advised on the highest authority that it is impossible for anyone to he injured by any of the investigations done as the Prophit Survey is doing them.
If I offer to obtain support for my statements, will the Minister be prepared to go into the matter further, and can he really persuade himself that to innoculate into the veins of—
I do not know why the Minister should be asked to persuade himself.
He has already persuaded himself, and I want to know how he has done it. May I ask my question? How can it possibly be free from danger to innoculate into the veins of a healthy person this poisonous decoction?
I, as Minister, have to decide between the hon. Member's unsupported assertion, which is in-accurate—
No, it is not—
—and statements from the Royal College of Physicians that this injection can have no ill effects, and Lord Dawson of Penn that it is impossible for anyone to be injured by it.
I will send the right hon. and gallant Gentleman the evidence.
Western Isles (Facilities)
55.
asked the Postmaster-General what improvements and extension of mail services and deliveries have been made during the past year to the latest convenient date in each of the Outer Islands; and what developments of telephone services have been made?
On the postal side the past year has seen the improvement of the delivery services at Bayhead, North Uist; a scheme has also been sanctioned to improve postal facilities at Castlebay, Barra On the telephone side, new exchanges have been established at Shawbost and Carloway, on the Island of Lewis at Port Charlotte, Port Askaig and Portnahavan on the Island of Islay, at Tiroran on The Island of Mull and at Toberonochy the Island of Luing; new call offices opened at Dinnishadder, on the Island of Harris, and at Vatersay, on Barra; a trunk line has been erected between Harris and Lewis and trunk facilities are now available at the call offices on the Island of Harris.
Is the Minister aware that several of the islands in which those improvements have taken place are not in the Outer Islands at all, and can he inform the House what improvement has taken place in some of the smaller islands?
I was asked only what had already been done. We have a considerable scheme of improvements for the future.
Inspectorships, Engineering Department
56.
asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the large number of vacancies for the position of inspectors in the engineering department is due to the fact that it pays the skilled man to remain in his present grade and work overtime rather than accept promotion on the present scale paid to inspectors; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy this state of affairs?
I am not aware that skilled workmen decline promotion to inspectorships for the reason suggested by the hon. Member. The large number of vacancies for inspectors is due to the continued expansion of the work, but there is no difficulty in finding candidates to fill the vacancies as they occur.
57.
asked the Postmaster-General the number of skilled men in the engineering department who have been promoted during the past 12 months, and the number promoted who did not possess the prescribed certificates?
Figures are not readily available for the past 12 months, but since 1st January last, 576 skilled workmen have been promoted to inspector-ships. Of this number 189 were not in possession of the prescribed technical certificates. I should state, however, that 102 of the 189 were born before 1st January, 1894, and the possession of certificates is not in that case a condition of promotion. The remaining 87 possess countervailing qualifications of a special order.
Economic Mission (M Van Zeeland)
46.
asked the Prime Minister whether he can now say if the recent resignation of M. Van Zeeland has affected his economic mission; and whether he has yet received a report thereon from M. Van Zeeland?
I understand that M. Van Zeeland is in course of preparing his report, but it has not yet been received.
May we take it that so far as his Mission is concerned his resignation makes no difference?
I cannot say whether it makes no difference, but I know that he is preparing a report, which, I think, is the point on which the hon. Member wished to be assured.
British Broadcasting Corporation
51.
asked the Postmaster-General whether all the contracts entered into by the British Broadcasting Corporation are put out to public tender from time to time?
I am informed by the British Broadcasting Corporation that its normal practice is to invite competitive tenders for its requirements from firms likely to be able to supply them.
Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that in all quarters of the House there is a desire to have a far greater knowledge of the working of the B.B.C.? Does he think that the attitude with regard to enlistments in the Territorial Force adopted by the B.B.C. is really helpful? Does he know what the B.B.C. did on 7th May?
Wireless Transmission, Alderney
53.
asked the Postmaster-General whether any application has been made to the Post Office for a broadcasting licence for a station that broadcasts daily between 12 and 1 o'clock with a woman announcer and the call sign Alderney, Channel Islands, speaking; and whether any permission has been granted for this station to operate under an amateur waveband?
I have received no application for a licence for a broadcasting station in the Island of Alderney and have granted no permission for such a station to be operated in any wave-band. Inquiries are being made regarding the transmissions referred to. When I have fuller information, I will consider what action should be taken in the matter.
Will he also make inquiries whether they have any local permits to broadcast music and gramophone records?
The whole matter will be inquired into.
Broadcasting Stations (Emer- Gency Conditions)
58.
asked the Postmaster-General whether he is satisfied that, in the event of war, there would be sufficient alternative broadcasting stations to maintain a full national broadcast irrespective of the possible destruction of one or more stations; and whether he can give reasonable assurances that existing plans are adequate to prevent the jamming of this service?
It is not in the public interest to say what action His Majesty's Government intend to take in regard to the broadcasting service in the event of war; but I can assure the hon. Member that the matters to which he refers have not been overlooked.
Is the Minister in communication with the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence on this subject?
The matter is being considered by the Government.
What did the British Broadcasting Corporation do on 7th May?
House Of Commons (Clocks)
59.
asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he has considered the memorial sent him by the hon. Member for West Leeds and signed by 308 Members of all parties, including Privy Councillors and former Ministers, thus constituting an absolute majority of the whole House, stating that they would welcome the placing of a second clock in the Chamber above the Speaker's Chair; and what action he now proposes in the matter?
I am in consultation with the authorities of the House about my hon. Friend's representations.
Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that if he does not now accede to this request he will be flouting the principles of Democracy?
I will take the usual course of inquiry through the usual channels.
How soon shall we have a decision?
I will let the hon. Member know.
Will my right hon. Friend keep his eye on the clock?
Abyssinian Refugees
66.
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Abyssinian refugees are now in British territory; whether any have been deported to the Italian authorities or elsewhere; and whether arrangements are being made for the permanent settlement of these refugees?
According to the latest figures which I have received there are approximately 6,180 refugees in Kenya, 1,348 in Somaliland, 6o in Palestine, and 32 in Aden. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative. No arrangements have yet been made as regards the future disposition of these refugees but, as has already been explained to the House, it is not possible to contemplate their permanent settlement in Kenya and Somaliland would be still more unsuitable.
May we have an assurance from the right hon. Gentleman that these unfortunate refugees will not be sent back to Abyssinia as long as the Italians are in control?
That is too sweeping an assurance for it to be possible to give, but certainly there is no suggestion of their being sent back now or even in the near future.
Would it not be possible to settle them in the Sudan?
Employment (Statistics)
67.
asked the Minister of Labour by how much the growth in the number of insured persons between July, 1936, and July, 1937, exceeded the forecast of his Department; and whether in these circumstances, he can state to what extent the number of such persons then estimated to be in employment at the beginning of July was, in fact, exceeded?
The increase between 6th July, 1936, and 5th July, 1937, in the estimated total number of insured persons aged 16–64 in Great Britain (exclusive of persons within die agricultural scheme) proved to be 350,000 instead of 250,000 as was anticipated at the beginning of the insurance year. The revised figure for the number of such persons in employment at 21st June, 1937, is now estimated at 11,613,000, or 96,000 more than the original estimate for that date.
Could we be told how such an astonishing mistake came to be made in this Department?
The hon. Gentleman will observe that the result was more optimistic than the Department anticipated. If he cares, I will discover for him the reasons why.
Unemployment (Assistance)
73 and 74.
asked the Minister of Labour (1) how many people are in receipt of unemployment assistance registered at Boden Street and Southbank Street, Glasgow, respectively; how many of these have received an increase in their allowances on account of the increase in the cost of living, in accordance with the instructions of the Board that each case would be considered on its merits;
(2) how many people in Rothesay in receipt of unemployment assistance have received an increase in their allowances on account of the increased cost of living, in accordance with the instructions issued by the Board that each case was being considered on its merits?On 19th November, the numbers of current applications in the offices of the Unemployment Assistance Board in Boden Street and Southbank Street, Glasgow, were 8,988 and 3,058 respectively. With regard to the other matters raised, my right hon. Friend explained to the hon. Member on Thursday last that these statistics will, it is hoped, be available about the middle of December.
Share-Pushing
77.
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to indicate what steps, if any, he can take pending the passage of anti-share-pushing legislation to warn potential investors of the dangers they are running in investing moneys through companies or individuals who are peddling ownership in units of land for the growing of mushrooms or soya beans with high rates of interest offered upon the investments?
As the right hon. Gentleman was informed, in reply to his previous questions, invitations to the public of the type to which he refers are being considered in connection with the proposals for legislation on share-pushing and similar activities. In the meantime, I should like to repeat and emphasise the warning given last Tuesday by the President of the Board of Trade, that in his view anybody who invests money in these concerns is taking a very great risk; and I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for this opportunity to do so.
Would the right hon. and gallant Gentleman mind answering my question? I asked the President of the Board of Trade on the previous occasion whether he or some other prominent Member of the Government would take steps over the radio to warn, not this House, but potential investors in every part of the country, so that they may be safeguarded pending the introduction of the Government's legislation?
Perhaps it is not too much to hope that the right hon. Gentleman's question to-day, and particularly his supplementary question, may have the necessary effect.
Abingdon Street, Westminster
78.
asked the hon. Member for Central Leeds, as representing the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, how many of the houses in Abingdon Street belonging to the Commissioners are unlet; for what period they have been unlet; what is the total loss of rent involved; and for what reason have steps not been taken to relet the vacant houses?
The Ecclesiastical Commissioners own six houses in Abingdon Street, and all of these have been vacant for periods ranging from mid-July, 1936, to Lady Day last. The amount which would have been received in rent up to Christmas next had the lessees and tenants remained in occupation at the previous rents would have been £4,180. The property has not been relet because, as the site is not required for the King George Memorial, it is in process of redevelopment.
Is it not very bad estate management, which to some extent will seriously affect the clergy, that a sum of £4,000 should have been wasted in this manner, especially as some of the tenants wished to remain on a quarterly, but were refused leave to do so, as long ago as March, 1936?
An important site like Abingdon Street cannot be redeveloped in a few weeks or months.
Is it not a fact that the Ecclesiastical Commissioners turned out some of these tenants who were willing to stay and who would have paid rent if allowed to stay?
The leases came to an end or notice was given in accordance with the leases in order that we might obtain control over the site as a whole within a reasonable time.
Has this property been sold, or is it going to be sold?
It has not been sold, and I do not expect that it will be.
Public Assistance (Pensioners, Lancashire)
79.
asked the Minister of Health the number of persons in receipt of pensions under the Old Age Pensions and the Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Contributory Pensions Acts who are also in receipt of public assistance in Lancashire; and the total amount paid to the said persons in public assistance?
On 1st January, 1937, the latest date for which figures are available there were 30,785 old age pensioners and 9,832 widow pensioners in the administrative county of Lancaster, together with the 17 associated county boroughs, who were also in receipt of poor relief. The returns made to my Department do not show separately the amount of poor relief paid to those persons.