India
Congress Deputies (Independence Pledge)
1.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the independence pledge enjoining severance from Great Britain taken by all Congress deputies at Delhi last year and to the fact that one of the men who took this pledge has been severely punished by the High Court of the Mysore State for disloyalty to the Mysore ruler on the ground that that ruler has by treaty acknowledged the supremacy of the King Emperor; and will he make a statement?
I am aware that the Congress deputies to the Delhi Convention last year took a pledge to work for the independence of India; and I have seen a report that, in dismissing a revision petition against a conviction and sentence by a special magistrate for disobedience of an order passed by the District Magistrate, Bangalore, the Chief Justice of the Mysore High Court made certain observations of the nature indicated in the question. I have no statement to make on the matter.
How does the Noble Lord reconcile the Congress pledge with the oath of allegiance taken by these Congress members? Does he not think the provincial Governors ought to take parallel action to that of the Government of Mysore?
The question of reconciling one with the other is a matter for the individual. What we are concerned with is whether the law is broken. If it is broken we have ample power to deal with the breach. With regard to the case at Mysore, I would like to say again that the man in question was not punished for taking this pledge, but was punished for disobedience to a lawful order. If similar breaches of the law occurred in British India, I have no reason to suppose that similar results would not follow.
Communist Literature (Prohibition)
3.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India why a book entitled "The Theory and Practice of Socialism," by John Strachey, a former Member of this House, is prohibited from entry into India; and whether, as a similar prohibition in regard to Burma has recently been lifted by the Council of Ministers in Burma, he will instruct the Government of India to rescind prohibitory orders on this book and other similar publications?
This book is held by the Indian authorities to fall within the scope of the general notification of the Government of India dated 10th September, 1932, prohibiting the entry of Communist literature into India. The action taken in Burma does not affect the position in India in regard to the exclusion of Communist literature and my Noble Friend is not prepared to issue any instructions in the matter.
As the ban has been lifted in Burma does not the Noble Lord think it ought to be lifted in India?
I think that the Government of India have as much right to their own opinion as the Government of Burma.
Federation
4.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is in a position to state the present attitude of the Congress towards the inauguration of the Federal structure embodied in the Government of India Act; and the extent of the support outside the Congress for its attitude towards the Federal scheme?
The attitude of the Congress towards the inauguration of the Federal provisions of the Government of India Act has been expressed as being one of complete condemnation. On the other hand, my Noble Friend has received a copy of resolutions passed by the Hindu Mahasabha on 1st January last in which that organisation placed on record its deliberate opinion that Hindus should utilise whatever powers are provided for by the Act in the interests of the evolution of Hindustan as a united nation, and urged expedition in the introduction of Federation; and a resolution similar in effect was adopted about the same time by the National Liberal Federation of India.
Can the Noble Lord give an approximation in figures of the support given to the opposition from the Congress and elsewhere?
I must have notice of that question.
Famine And Floods
5.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether, in view of the recent famines and floods in British India and the damage and loss of life caused thereby in the different provinces, he can say whether any scheme is under consideration by the Government of India to give the provinces substantial grants from the central revenue or to relieve affected areas of any portion of their contribution to the central Government?
I am not aware that there have recently been famines or floods on such a scale that the resources provided for the provinces under the Act are inadequate to deal with them. The hon. Member will have seen from the Government of India's Budget Statement that the provinces are expected to benefit by assignments of Income Tax amounting in the aggregate to Rs.138 lakhs (£1,035,000) in 1937–38, and Rs.128 lakhs (£960,000) in 1938–39.
Expenditure (Legislative Assembly Vote)
6.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that the Government of India has varied in the present session of the Indian Legislative Assembly the practice which has hitherto obtained in respect of the submission of certain items of expenditure to the vote of the legislature; and whether, as such action has been resented by the entire Indian opposition, including the Congress party, he will make representations to the Government of India with a view to modifying its procedure and bringing it into line with responsible public opinion?
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Under the Act of 1935 provision for the pay, allowances and pensions of the members of the Defence Department Secretariat is "charged on the revenues" of the Government of India, and accordingly cannot any longer be submitted to the vote of the Assembly. Opportunities are still available to the Assembly to discuss and criticise Defence policy. In these circumstances my Noble Friend sees no reason for addressing the Government of India as suggested.
What are the opportunities given to the Assembly to discuss the question of Defence?
I think it is by moving the reduction of the vote for travelling and possibly other allowances for the Governor-General or members of the Executive Council.
Could the Noble Lord say under what section of the Act these changes have been made?
Sections 237 and 238.
Egypt (Gebel Aulis Dam)
7.
asked the Prime Minister how far the compensation for damage to agricultural land in the White Nile Valley, as a result of the Gebel Aulis dam, is met by the sum of £750,000 paid by the Egyptian Government, in view of the fact that compensation at the rate of £50 or more per acre was paid for damage to land caused by the Assouan dam?
Since the process of assessing compensation for damage resulting from the construction of the Gebel Aulis dam is still in progress, I am unable to state at present what the total liability will be, and how far it will be met by the agreed sum of £E.750,000 paid by the Egyptian Government for this specific purpose in 1932. The rates of compensation paid by the Egyption Government in respect of the flooding of the land by the Assouan dam cannot provide a criterion applicable to this case, since land values in the two districts are in no way comparable.
Russia (Propaganda)
9.
asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the official statement recently issued by M. Stalin to the effect that revolutionary propaganda in foreign countries is to be extended and intensified; and whether His Majesty's Government propose to make any representations to the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the subject?
I presume that my hon. and gallant Friend refers to the "open letter" by M. Stalin recently published in the Soviet Press. That document, however, contains no specific mention of an intensification of propaganda in foreign countries. The second part of the question, therefore, does not arise.
Is it not a fact that the policy of Russia is to carry out world-wide revolution, and that propaganda is a very necessary part of it?
League Of Nations
International Relations
10.
asked the Prime Minister whether the policy of His Majesty's Government to secure an agreement between Great Britain, France, Germany, and Italy presupposes that any such agreement will be contracted within the framework of the League of Nations?
His Majesty's Government have never stated their policy in the terms suggested by the hon. Member, but they are of course bound by Article 20 of the Covenant of the League of Nations not to enter into any engagements inconsistent with the terms of the Covenant.
12.
asked the Prime Minister whether the Four-Power pact, signed in Rome on 15th July, 1933, by Great Britain, France, Germany, and Italy to secure, within the framework of the League of Nations, their collaboration in Europe for 10 years, is still in operation?
The agreement of understanding and co-operation between France, Germany and Italy and the United Kingdom, usually known as the Four-Power pact, was not ratified by all the signatories to it, and did not come into force.
Liberia (Slavery)
13.
asked the Prime Minister particulars of the latest report received by the Council of the League of Nations respecting the reforms recommended by the commission of inquiry into slavery and forced labour in Liberia; and what progress for the suppression of slavery in that country has been made since the delivery of the report?
The Council of the League of Nations has received no recent reports on this subject. The Liberian Government have passed the necessary laws for the abolition of slavery, and I have no reason to believe that they are not being enforced.
Was the invitation of the United States to co-operate ever accepted?
I should require notice of that question.
Refugees
14.
asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the urgent need for an agreement on international asssistance for refugees, any steps will be taken before the next League of Nations Assembly to remove the opposition of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics to such schemes?
The question of the future of the League's work for refugees was entrusted by the last session of the League Council to a committee of three of its members. This committee was empowered by the Council to enter into consultation with governments, including, of course, the Soviet Government.
Government Policy
47.
asked the Prime Minister whether he has considered the copy sent to him of a resolution passed by the Clydebank Co-operative Women's Guild, Parkhall branch, condemning the Government for their abandonment of the League of Nations and collective security and asking for an early general election; what reply has he returned to this demand; and what action does he propose to take in this matter?
I have received from the hon. Member a copy of the resolution to which he refers. I am prepared to defend the policy of the Government both in this House and in the country, but I am afraid I cannot undertake to do so in correspondence with the Clydebank Co-operative Women's Guild, Parkhall branch.
Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication as to when we shall have a chance of attacking that policy in the country?
On a point of Order. I beg leave to say that I did not hear the last part of the Prime Minister's reply to my question. I desire to hear that, in order to put a supplementary question on it?
The last part of my reply was:
"I am afraid I cannot undertake to do so in correspondence with the Clydebank Cooperative Women's Guild, Parkhall Branch."
Great Britain And France
11.
asked the Prime Minister whether he will state the extent of the obligations of His Majesty's Government to assist France in the event of any attack on or invasion of French territory?
The obligations of this country to France, apart from any that may result from the Covenant of the League of Nations, are those of the Treaty of Locarno of 1925 as reaffirmed in Section III of the arrangements drawn up in London on 19th March, 1936.
Has His Majesty's Government considered the position that is likely to arise in the event of France being attacked as a result of carrying out her treaty obligations to Czechoslovakia?
Great Britain And Italy
15.
asked the Prime Minister whether the Anglo-Italian conversations will include any reference to the possibility of ending the war in Spain through mediation?
This question hardly seems suitable for inclusion in the agenda of the forthcoming discussions, but the possibilities of mediation will certainly not be overlooked if any favourable opportunity should arise.
32.
asked the Prime Minister the date on which consultations were held between representatives of the Dominions and His Majesty's Government with regard to the proposed negotiations with Italy; and the attitude of the Dominion representatives?
45.
asked the Prime Minister whether the Dominion Governments were consulted before the Anglo-Italian conversations were initiated; whether they will be kept acquainted with the course of the conversations which will affect an Empire route through the Mediterranean; and whether no undertakings concerning the Mediterranean will be finally entered into without the assent of the Dominion Governments?
His Majesty's Governments in the Dominions have been kept fully informed by telegraph of the intentions of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom as regards the opening of discussions with Italy. They will be kept informed of all developments, and will, therefore, have every opportunity of expressing their views. The question of assent on any particular question would only arise in the event of a Dominion being asked to assume active obligations.
Is the Prime Minister aware that very strong objections have been taken to the attitude of His Majesty's Government by Dominion representatives, in speeches of which I will send him a copy?
Have any views been expressed by any Dominion Government in regard to the Mediterranean, in connection with these conversations?
I must have notice of that question.
Gibraltar
16.
asked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to give further information with regard to the statements made by General Quiepo de Llano on 27th February at La Linea with reference to Gibraltar?
22.
asked the Prime Minister whether any representations have been made to him, or to the Foreign Office, as a result of his inquiries into the speech of General Llano relating to Gibraltar; and, if so, by whom were the representations made and what was their effect?
I would refer the right hon. Gentleman to the answer given in reply to a similar question by the hon. Member for the Combined English Universities (Miss Rathbone) on 3rd March. I would add that General Franco's Agent in London informed the Foreign Office on 2nd March that the statements alleged to have been made by General Queipo de Llano in regard to Gibraltar were falsely attributed to him. The General had in fact only said that Spain should always be strong, as her moments of weakness had always had fatal consequences for her, as happened in the War of Succession which deprived her of Gibraltar. Due note was taken of the Duke of Alba's communication.
Is the Prime Minister aware that the "Times" Bayonne correspondent stated on 1st March that it was broadcast from Seville, the Franco headquarters, that General Quiepo de Llano had referred to Gibraltar as having been stolen from Spain by treason, and added that it would soon be back in the hands of that country? Does the Prime Minister believe that that statement, broadcast from Seville, is not to be accepted as reliable?
Yes, I do believe that, because the information from our own correspondents at Gibraltar does not bear out the original statement to which the right hon. Gentleman referred.
Is the Prime Minister aware that the correspondent responsible for the main report in the London Press on 1st March is of long-standing and of great reputation for trustworthiness?
rose—
How does it come about that representations are being made by the Duke of Alba on a matter which cannot be said to be appropriate, in view of the terms on which he was received as envoy, when it was stated that his duties would be strictly confined to commercial matters?
I do not think the right hon. Gentleman should take exception to the action of General Franco's agent in informing us that a statement attributed to General Quiepo de Llano was not, in fact, true.
Is it not a fact that this House was assured by the Government that there would be no diplomatic function performed by the Duke of Alba, and is it not clear from this that he is becoming now a sort of ambassador?
Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of a statement published in a rebel organ in Barcelona that if they win the war they are going to get Gibraltar back?
Is it not a fact that General Franco himself said to a representative of the "Times" last summer, in reply to a question, that he did not think Gibraltar could be of any interest to us or any further use to us?
Will the right hon. Gentleman disclose the identity of his correspondents?
Yes, the British Vice-Consul at La Linea, who said that he was present on the occasion on which General Quiepo de Llano was said to have spoken in certain terms, and that no such remarks were made.
I beg to give notice that I shall raise this question on the Adjournment at the first opportunity.
Spain
17.
asked the Prime Minister whether he will ascertain from the Non-intervention Committee whether the committee is aware of the large quantities of munitions entering the territory occupied by the Barcelona Government daily across the French frontier; and whether he will make a statement on the matter?
I would remind my hon. and gallant Friend that, as the land observation scheme is at present in suspense, the Non-intervention Committee are not in a position to acquire information of this nature.
Surely this open transport of munitions across the French frontier should be brought to the notice of the French Government, who initiated the whole scheme of non-intervention? Is it not true to say that without this transport of munitions General Franco would have won the war?
19.
asked the Prime Minister whether he will give an assurance that the re-imposition of control over the land frontiers of Spain will not precede by more than a few days the actual withdrawal of troops from Spain and will not precede the imposition of some scheme which will afford a reasonably sure guarantee that no foreign aircraft can reach either side in Spain from abroad?
23.
asked the Prime Minister whether he will assure the House that he will not concede to the Italian Government, either as a condition of their acceptance of His Majesty's Government's formula for the evacuation of foreign combatants from Spain or as a condition precedent to the despatch of the international commissions to Spain, as contemplated in His Majesty's Government's plan for evacuation, that control should be re-imposed at the frontiers of Spain; whether any communications have passed between His Majesty's Government and the French Government on this subject; and what is the attitude of the French Government to it?
33.
asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the Spanish insurgents control half the Franco-Spanish frontier and that the international control of the Portuguese land frontier was withdrawn last summer, he will give an assurance that he will not consent to the re-imposition of international control on the French frontier before the withdrawal of foreigners has at least commenced?
These are matters which are at present under the consideration of the Non-intervention Committee. They are for the Committee as a whole to decide, and I am not at liberty to make any statement on the subject at present.
May I ask for an answer to the first part of my question? Was the closing of the French frontier a condition of the acceptance by the Italian Government of the British formula for the evacuation of foreign combatants in Spain?
I should like to see that question on the Paper.
I must press for an answer now. The question was addressed to the Prime Minister, and it is on the Paper. It is a question of whether it was a condition of the acceptance of the formula for the evacuation of foreign combatants from Spain?
The right hon. Gentleman's point, I think, is that he was asking the Prime Minister
"whether he will assure the House that he will not concede to the Italian Government, either as a condition of their acceptance";
Obviously if it is a condition of acceptance, it must be a condition. I ask the Prime Minister to answer quite definitely, because if this were a condition of the acceptance the House ought to have been informed when it was informed of the acceptance.
If we can see the question on the Paper we can give an answer.
Is it not a fact that answers in relation to matters coming before the Non-intervention Committee were given in this House last week, and why are they withheld this week by the formula; and, secondly, is it not a fact that the Non-intervention Committee of 1937 has already agreed, I believe, on 4th November—
The hon. Member's question is too long.
May I ask for an answer to the first part of it?
Mr. Harvey.
20.
asked the Prime Minister what decision has been taken by His Majesty's Government with regard to assisting the humanitarian work on behalf of child refugees on both sides in Spain, which is being undertaken by the international commission under the chairmanship of Judge Michael Hansson, the president of the Nansen office at Geneva; and what promises of assistance have been given by other Governments?
The attention of His Majesty's Government was drawn last autumn to the terrible conditions existing in the refugee camps in Catalonia and in other parts of Spain, where many children were on the verge of starvation, and they were invited to contribute to a scheme intended to result in the provision of one hot meal a day for those children on both sides who were in most urgent need. His Majesty's Government accordingly informed Judge Hansson, the President of the organisation to which the hon. Member refers, that they would be prepared to make a contribution thereto as soon as they were satisfied that sufficient funds were forthcoming from elsewhere to ensure its genuinely international character. I am informed that conditional promises of assistance have been received to date from six Governments, and that contributions from several others are expected.
Are the Government aware that the Belgian Government have promised 250,000 francs and the South African Government £2,000, and in view of the urgency of the need will His Majesty's Government consider the possibility of making their grant available even if the total amount contemplated cannot be obtained?
The Government's contribution was conditional on other Governments subscribing a certain amount, but naturally, in view of the seriousness of the situation, I shall give the hon. Member's point every consideration.
24.
asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Italian Foreign Minister has written an article in "Wille und Macht," the paper of the Hitler youth movement, in which he says that Italian and German volunteers are fighting side by side in Spain, and serving with determination the cause to which these two nations have dedicated themselves; and whether he will bring this reaffirmation on the part of Italy to continue to participate in the Spanish struggle before the Non-intervention Committee?
I have seen a reference in the Press to the article to which the hon. Member refers, but whatever may be our interpretation of it, I do not feel that any useful purpose would be served by the action suggested by the hon. Member.
In view of this recent reaffirmation of the intention to continue intervention in Spain, do the Government think it is any use continuing negotiations on this question?
I should like to see the article in toto before saying anything further.
Did the hon. Gentleman not see the "Times" correspondent's report, and is he prepared to deny the report of every British correspondent abroad?
May I ask the Prime Minister whether, in the Italian negotiations, he takes any account of the continued active Italian intervention in Spain?
Have I not the right to put a supplementary question, Mr. Speaker?
We cannot have an endless flow of supplementary questions.
31.
asked the Prime Minister whether the formula to which the Italians have agreed for the withdrawal of foreigners from Spain includes the provision that such withdrawal shall be in proportion to the numbers engaged on both sides?
This is a question which is under the discussion of the Non-intervention Committee, and I am not therefore able to make a statement. I would, however, point out that the basis of the proposals put forward in the Committee's resolution of 4th November was that the withdrawal of foreign volunteers should be in proportion to the numbers engaged on either side.
Did the formula to which the Italians agreed include proportionate withdrawal?
The question put by the hon. Gentleman referred to the terms of the proposal, and they did include the proposal for the withdrawal of foreign volunteers in proportion to the numbers engaged on either side.
Am I to understand that the Italians have agreed to this?
Is there to be withdrawal also of French and Russian troops?
Is not the Prime Minister prepared to do anything to save democracy in Spain?
51.
asked the Prime Minister whether he will give an assurance that he will not again make anyone who has been closely associated with General Franco's cause a member of His Majesty's Government?
I do not accept the hon. Member's description as applicable to any member of His Majesty's Government.
Is the Prime Minister aware that, in making a former supporter of General Franco a member of his Government, he has inevitably raised doubts at home and abroad as to his impartiality?
Will the Prime Minister also give an assurance that no one who has been speaking against this country in Spain will receive any chance of recognition?
China And Japan
18.
asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Japanese censors in Chefoo are refusing to accept code messages for transmission by cable from British firms; and what he proposes to do in the matter?
No, Sir. But His Majesty's Consul at Cheefoo reported that the Chinese telegraph office, under instructions from the Peking Provisional Government, were refusing to accept code telegrams. A protest has been lodged and arrangements have been made for British commercial messages to be passed temporarily through other channels.
Germany (Colonies)
21.
asked the Prime Minister whether, in the course of the recent discussions with the Italian Ambassador, he has received any official representations from the Italian Government on the question of the return of colonies to Germany?
No, Sir.
Does that reply indicate that in the forthcoming talks between Italy and this country the question of the return of colonies will not be on the official agenda?
I did not say that, but that is, in fact, the case.
Great Britain And Germany
25.
asked the Prime Minister whether he has any statement to make concerning the conversations between His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin and the head of the German Government?
The German Chancellor received His Majesty's Ambassador on 3rd March, for a general conversation upon subjects of interest to both countries. I am not in a position to say any more for the present.
Will these questions be a continuation or an extension of what are known as the Halifax-Hitler conversations?
That is a matter of opinion.
26.
asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of General Goering's statement as to the use of the German air force in connection with Germans outside the Reich, he will instruct His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin to draw the attention of the German Government to the fact that this country has commitments concerning the integrity of several countries which have German minorities?
The attitude of this country in connection with Central Europe has been repeatedly stated in this House, and in particular by the late Foreign Secretary on 24th June, 1937, in a speech of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy.
Do not such veiled threats as are referred to in this question make it very much more difficult to pursue appeasement in Europe?
Are the Government still bound by all the declarations of the late Foreign Secretary when he was a member of the Government?
53.
asked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to enter into negotiations with Germany for a settlement of outstanding difficulties simultaneously with the negotiations with Italy for the same purpose?
Discussions with the German Goxernment have hitherto been only of a preliminary and exploratory character, and I am not in a position to say whether or when they will be succeeded by negotiations.
Does the Prime Minister hope that negotiations will follow these preliminary conversations?
Will official negotiations be preceded by unofficial hostilities?
Assyrian Refugees
27.
asked the Prime Minister whether any steps have been taken to implement the proposal to settle the Assyrian refugees in Cyprus?
In reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Walsall (Mr. Leckie) on 4th November, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister explained that in spite of repeated and exhaustive inquiries since 1933, it had unfortunately proved impossible to find a suitable area for the resettlement of the Assyrians anywhere in the British Colonial Empire. Cyprus received special and particular attention in the course of those inquiries.
28.
asked the Prime Minister what are the conditions imposed upon the Assyrian Patriarch during his residence in England?
I understand that no special conditions have been imposed upon the Assyrian Patriarch. His Beatitude at present holds a Home Office document of identity for purposes of travel abroad, which is valid until September, 1938, and he has been exempted by direction of my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary from the requirements of registry with the police.
Is it not a fact that the Patriarch is prevented from visiting his own people, some of whom are in Iraq?
I understood the question to refer to restrictions imposed in England upon the Assyrian Patriarch.
Is not the whole question of the Assyrians very unsatisfactory?
Freedom Of The Press
29.
asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the statement to His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin by the head of the German Government that conversations cannot be held by this country and Germany if they are the subject in advance of Press comment in this country, he will give an assurance that in no circumstances His Majesty's Government will make any attempt to interfere at the behest of a foreign Government with the right of the British Press to comment with complete freedom upon matters of concern to this country?
I am not aware that the German Chancellor has made any such statement to His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin; but I can certainly give the assurance which the hon. and gallant Member desires. I would, however, accompany it, as on a previous occasion, with a reminder of the heavy responsibility of the Press in international affairs.
Can the Minister give an assurance that no pressure, friendly or otherwise, will be brought to bear upon Press representatives visiting the Foreign Office in this connection?
Trade And Commerce
Brazil (Coffee)
34.
asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department how much coffee has been destroyed by Brazil during each of the last three years; and whether he has any statement to make as to the feasibility of the Government entering into negotiation with the Brazilian Government with a view to acquiring such surplus coffee in the current or future years, in whole or in part, towards liquidation of Brazil's indebtedness in respect of loans raised in this country, and for the purpose of being stored against any possible national emergency?
According to figures issued by the National Coffee Department in Brazil, the amount of coffee destroyed was, in 1935, 1936 and 1937 respectively, 1,693,112 bags, 3,731,154 bags and 17,196,428 bags, each bag consisting of 60 kilos. His Majesty's Government do not regard the suggestion in the second part of the question as feasible.
Does the Minister not see that it is impossible for a country like Brazil to repay its indebtedness to us unless we are prepared to accept imports from that country?
Italy
35.
asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether the Export Credits Department has guaranteed any credits for the export of goods to Italy during the past year; and, if so, for what value?
36.
asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department how much money has been guaranteed to firms under the exports credits scheme in respect of goods exported to Italy during each of the three last years?
Guarantees have been given by the Export Credits Guarantee Department in the ordinary course of its business in the last three years in connection with the export of United Kingdom goods to Italy, but it is not the practice to state the amount of the Department's commitments in respect of any particular country.
Then it is impossible for us to keep any check upon the Government if they wish to extend credits in this indirect way to Italy?
Have the exports credits to Italy been remunerative, or has there been a loss to the Exchequer?
So far as I know they are being paid off as they fall due.
How much?
Why is information being withheld from this House when guarantees are given, and should not the House be able to find out how much money is being lent to various countries under Government guarantee?
The hon. Member will remember that the matter was discussed when the Bill was passing through the House last year, and that it was decided that the reasons given for witholding the information were adequate and satisfactory.
Can the right hon. Gentleman suggest any way by which this House can be informed of increased credits granted in this way to Italy?
Aircraft (Exports)
70.
asked the President of the Board of Trade the total number of aircraft exported by the Bristol and Gloster aeroplane companies, respectively, to foreign countries during 1937 and up to the latest available date in 1938?
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for Nuneaton (Lieut.-Commander Fletcher) on 22nd February.
British Council Of Art And Industry
72 and 73.
asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) what part the British Council of Art and Industry is taking in the Empire Exhibition of this year at Glasgow and the exhibition next year in New York;
(2) whether any financial assistance is being given to the British Council of Art and Industry in connection with forthcoming exhibitions?Approval has been given to expenditure from public funds by the Scottish Committee of the Council for Art and Industry of an amount not exceeding £4,000 to provide an exhibit at the Empire Exhibition at Glasgow. The committee will also be responsible for the erection and furnishing of a house and two flats at the exhibition, but in this case no part of the cost will fall upon public funds. No arrangements have been made for participation by the council in any other forthcoming exhibition.
Is the Scottish Committee a branch of the council which was responsible for the rather unfortunate pavilion in the Paris Exhibition?
I would rather see that question on the Paper.
May I ask whether the committee has been reorganised?
Coir Mat And Matting Industry
74.
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the representations from the National Joint Industrial Council for the coir mat and matting industry relative to the depressed state of that industry; and what answer has been returned to those representations?
My right hon. Friend informed the National Joint Industrial Council for the Coir Mat and Matting Industry that the representations made to him on 16th December would receive consideration. No more definite reply can be given at present, but these representations are being borne in mind in the trade negotiations with India.
Agriculture
Milk
38.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is now able to give any information as to the extension of the schemes for supplying cheap milk to children of pre-school age and to expectant and nursing mothers in additional places in the Special Areas?
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave on 10th February to my hon. and gallant Friend, the Member for Ayr Burghs (Sir T. Moore) of which I am sending her a copy.
42.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the expenditure of the Milk Marketing Board upon advertising the merits of milk is being largely countered by an advertising campaign sponsored by the British Medical Association, in which all milk which has not been treated by certain methods is stigmatised as dangerous to health; whether he is aware that statements in these advertisements are damaging the interests of farmers producing and selling milk which, though not treated by the methods favoured by the association, is accepted by the Ministry as of satisfactory quality; and whether he will recommend to the Milk Marketing Board an advertising policy which will neutralise the damage done to the industry by unsubstantiated statements sponsored by private interests?
I have no information as to whether the advertisements referred to have had the effect ascribed to them, and I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by suggesting to the Milk Marketing Board that they should change their present advertising policy, which is designed to encourage the consumption of milk generally.
Without pressing the matter further now, may I give notice, having regard to the fact that the Minister does not appear to appreciate all the repercussions of this advertising campaign, that I shall raise the matter on an early Motion for the Adjournment?
Who supplied the money for these costly advertisements? It was not the doctors.
60.
asked the Minister of Agriculture when he proposes to introduce a Bill to give effect to the proposals for the development of the Government's milk policy, as announced in Command Paper 5533 issued in July, 1937?
Legislation to give effect to the proposals contained in the Government's White Paper on Milk Policy will, I hope, be introduced shortly after the Easter Recess.
Is the Minister aware that that will be too late for the negotiations for the new contract prices this year?
No, Sir. The present position is governed by legislation extending up to the end of September next. That, therefore, covers the hon. Member's point.
Home-Grown Food
39.
asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps are now being taken to ensure the efficient equipping of farms with machinery in order to maintain and improve output and assist the production of home-grown foodstuffs, in view of the Government's preference for an increase in home-grown foodstuffs as opposed to food storage?
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave him on 29th April last.
What are the Government really doing to save the home market for the home farmer?
Will the Government consider the advisability of taking a national survey of the whole of the credits to agriculture, and might they not institute some far better system than the multiplicity of landlords?
Pig Industry
40.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will give the House an assurance that legislation to deal with the pig industry will be introduced during this Session?
I hope so.
Is the Minister aware that the farmer cannot live on hope, that he has not much hope left and that something ought to be done for him?
Foot-And-Mouth Disease
41.
asked the Minister of Agriculture the number of actions that have been brought in Great Britain during the previous five years under the Diseases of Animals Act, 1927, for failure to report with all practical speed an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease; and what penalties were imposed?
During the past five years 18 prosecutions have been instituted in Great Britain for failure to report promptly the suspected existence of foot-and-mouth disease. Convictions were obtained in 15 cases and fines varying from £1 to £35 were imposed, with costs varying from 5s. to £10 10s. The total fines imposed amounted to £220 and the costs to £38.
How many persons had been previously prosecuted for the same offence?
I could not say, without notice, but I can tell the House that farmers and others concerned have been most vigilant in reporting cases in recent years.
Are not these fines very small compared with those that the Milk Marketing Board can impose?
Cheese Making
44.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether the shortage of milk for manufacture has produced any decrease of cheese making in Yorkshire and Lancashire; and whether the present policy of the Milk Marketing Board is to discourage any development of this branch of activity in this country?
The decline in the total quantity of milk available for manufacture this winter, coupled with the system of allocating supplies to the more remunerative markets, has resulted in a decrease in the quantity of milk available for manufacture into cheese in the country generally, but I have no information as to the extent of the reduction in the case of Yorkshire and Lancashire cheese in particular. Further supplies are, however, now becoming available for cheese making as a result of the seasonal increase in the quantities of milk which are coming forward under the Milk Marketing Scheme. As to the last part of the question, I understand that it is not the policy of the Milk Marketing Board to discourage cheese production.
Is not that the result of their activities?
Quarantine Regulations (Dogs)
55.
asked the Minister of Agriculture the average expense incurred owing to quarantine regulations in importing a dog of medium size into the United Kingdom?
The fees charged by veterinary surgeons in charge of quarantine kennels for the detention of an imported dog for the prescribed period of six months' quarantine and by the carrying agents for the conveyance of the dog thereto from the port of landing are matters for arrangement between the owner of the dog and the veterinary surgeon and carrying agent. They vary with the size of the dog and with the particular requirements of the owner, and it would not be possible to give a figure representing the average expense.
Production
58.
asked the Minister of Agriculture how the total volume of agricultural production in 1937 compared with that in 1914?
Sufficient data are not available to enable the total output of agricultural and horticultural commodities in 1914 to be measured against that of 1937. I am, however, sending to my hon. Friend a table giving such figures as are available.
Will the table appear in the OFFICIAL REPORT?
I had intended to send it only to my hon. Friend; but, if it is the general wish, I shall have much pleasure in sending it to the OFFICIAL REPORT.
Following is the table:
| Estimated total production of the principal agricultural commodities in England and Wales in the years 1914–15 and 1936–37. | |||||||
| Product. | Unit. | Production. | |||||
| 1914–15 (June-May). | 1936–37 (June-May). | ||||||
| Meat: | |||||||
| Beef | … | … | 000 cwt. | 8,404 | 8,719 | ||
| Veal | … | … | 000 cwt. | 398 | 775 | ||
| Mutton and Lamb | … | … | 000 cwt. | 3,279 | 3,344 | ||
| Pigmeat | … | … | 000 cwt. | 4,749 | 7,616 | ||
| Dairy Products: | |||||||
| Milk | … | … | Million gallons | 897 | (a) | 1,314.5 | (a) |
| Butter | … | … | 000 cwt. | 380 | (b) | 390 | (b) |
| Cheese | … | … | 000 cwt. | 336 | (b) | 200 | (b) |
| Cream | … | … | 000 gallons | 635 | (b) | 1,300 | (b) |
| Skim milk | … | … | Million gallons | 9 | (b) | 3 | (b) |
| Poultry: | |||||||
| Fowls | … | … | Thousand head | 15,500 | 28,000 | ||
| Ducks | … | … | Thousand head | 1,950 | 2,600 | ||
| Geese | … | … | Thousand head | 490 | 580 | ||
| Turkeys | … | … | Thousand head | 510 | 570 | ||
| Eggs: | |||||||
| Fowls | … | … | Millions | 941 | 2,835 | ||
| Ducks | … | … | Millions | 18 | 60 | ||
| Wool | … | … | Million lb. | 61 | 55 | ||
| Farm Crops (d): | |||||||
| Wheat | … | … | 000 tons | 1,634 | 1,378 | ||
| Barley | … | … | 000 tons | 1,184 | 663 | ||
| Oats | … | … | 000 tons | 1,340 | 1,080 | ||
| Mixed corn | … | … | 000 tons | 75 | |||
| Rye | … | … | 000 tons | 8.6 | |||
| Beans | … | … | 000 tons | 250 | 93 | ||
| Peas | … | … | 000 tons | 83 | 31 | ||
| Potatoes | … | … | 000 tons | 2,953 | 2,814 | ||
| Sugar Beet | … | … | 000 tons | (c) | 3,387 | ||
| Hops | … | … | 000 cwt. | 507 | 252 | ||
| Miscellaneous: | |||||||
| Seeds Hay | … | … | 000 tons | 2,117 | 1,674 | ||
| Meadow Hay | … | … | 000 tons | 5,148 | 4,733 | ||
| Wheat Straw | … | … | 000 tons | 2,216 | 1,850 | ||
| Barley Straw | … | … | 000 tons | 1,357 | 617 | ||
| Oats Straw | … | … | 000 tons | 1,934 | 1,247 | ||
| Mustard Seed | … | … | 000 tons | (c) | 13.9 | ||
| Fruit: | |||||||
| Fruit (all kinds) | … | … | 000 cwt. | 5,563 | 12,545 | ||
| (a) Estimated total production, excluding milk fed to livestock. | |||||||
| (b) Estimated farm production. | |||||||
| (c) Not available. | |||||||
| (d) Crops of first named year. | |||||||
| NOTE.—The figures given above are not entirely comparable in view of the fact that the production of meat, milk and dairy products, etc. are not computed on exactly similar bases. The figures for 1914–15 have been based in some cases on the results of the censuses of 1908 and 1913. | |||||||
62.
asked the Minister of Agriculture the area in Glamorganshire under wheat, oats, and barley, respectively, for the years 1935, 1936, and 1937; and whether the yields are below the average for England and Wales?
As the reply involves a table of figures I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
Following is the reply:
The acreages under wheat, oats, and barley in Glamorganshire in the years named were:
| — | Wheat. | Oats. | Barley. | |
| Acres. | Acres. | Acres. | ||
| 1935 | … | 2,692 | 7,571 | 1,463 |
| 1936 | … | 2,209 | 7,406 | 1,447 |
| 1937 | … | 2,154 | 6,730 | 1,355 |
The yields in that county in 1935 were below, and in 1937 above, the respective average yields for England and Wales, while in 1936 the yields of wheat and barley were lower and the yield of oats slightly higher than in the country as a whole.
Slaughter-Houses
56.
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether any scheme or schemes for the establishment of experimental slaughter-houses have yet been approved under the Livestock Industry Act; and, if so, what areas are covered by the schemes?
I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave on 24th February to my hon. Friend the Member for East Dorset (Mr. Hall-Caine).
Does the Minister anticipate that these schemes will be produced?
Inquiries have been made and preliminary negotiations are going on, but I am not yet in a position to say that any scheme has been formally put before the Commission.
Does the Minister feel, as the result of his present experience, that there is any real trouble with regard to the financial proposals?
No, Sir.
Barley And Oats
57.
asked the Minister of Agriculture how the production of barley and oats in this country in 1937 compared with that in 1914?
It is estimated that the production of barley and oats in England and Wales in 1937 was 576,000 tons and 938,000 tons respectively. The corresponding figures for 1914 were 1,184,000 tons and 1,340,000 tons respectively.
Does my right hon. Friend realise that that represents a considerable decrease as compared with the position before the War?
Yes, Sir; but I would point out that there has been an almost exactly proportionate decrease, in the first place, in the population of horses, affecting oats, and in the amount of beer consumed, affecting barley.
Feeding Stuffs
59.
asked the Minister of Agriculture what was the proportion of feeding stuffs for livestock produced in this country and imported, respectively, in 1913 and in 1937?
It is estimated that imports constitute at the present time approximately 26 per cent. (on a starch equivalent basis) of the feeding stuffs required by the livestock population of the United Kingdom. I regret that a comparable figure for 1913 is not available.
House Of Lords
46.
asked the Prime Minister what steps he proposes to take during the present Parliament to reform the House of Lords?
I am not in a position to make any statement on this subject.
Does that mean that the Prime Minister is quite satisfied with the position?
Perhaps another day.
Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee's Reports
48.
asked the Prime Minister when the House will be given the opportunity of discussing any proposals or orders arising out of the newly issued reports of the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee?
50.
asked the Prime Minister whether the House will be given an early opportunity to discuss the recently published reports of the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee?
The House will be asked to approve the draft Orders to carry out the recommendations contained in the report of the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee. The Motions to approve the draft Orders are being placed on the Order Paper, but I am not in a position to announce when they will be taken.
Will the Prime Minister give the House an assurance that the Orders will be taken at an hour when there will be time for an adequate discussion, in view of the fact that the report not only makes specific recommendations about the surplus, but also raises important issues with regard to the relationship between wages and unemployment benefit?
I hope to bring on this discussion at a reasonable hour.
When will the Orders be laid?
I think to-night.
49.
asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the findings of the Reports of the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee, he intends to institute a special inquiry into the problems arising from the financial burden of child dependency and into the practicability of the introduction of some general system of family allowances such as has been adopted in other parts of the Empire and in a number of foreign countries, as well as by certain business firms in the United Kingdom?
I have been asked to reply. The comments of the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee were concerned with the relation between the rates of unemployment benefit and normal earnings in individual cases; this aspect of the matter will continue to receive attention. The question of a general system of family allowances is a much wider one, and my right hon. Friend does not think that a special inquiry at this moment would be likely to lead to practical results.
Is that also the view of General Franco, or is the hon. Gentleman speaking for himself?
Is the hon. Gentleman bearing in mind that this is the second time the Statutory Committee has called attention to the fact that the question of unemployment assistance can never be satisfactorily settled until wages and unemployment assistance are brought into proper relation; and, in view of that fact, will he not reconsider the question of appointing a committee?
M Van Zeeland's Report
52.
asked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government have now reached any conclusions as to the van Zeeland Report; and whether His Majesty's Government are in communication with foreign and/or Dominion Governments thereon with a view to the implementing of any of the recommendations made by M. van Zee-land?
The report is being considered by the Departments concerned, and I am not yet in a position to make any statement on the subject. At the same time, His Majesty's Government are in consultation with the French Government, since it was at the invitation of the two Governments that M. van Zeeland prepared his report.
Abyssinia
54.
asked the Prime Minister what passed at the interview between the Foreign Secretary and the Emperor of Abyssinia at their meeting last week; and, in particular, whether an explanation was given of the Government's policy as to the recognition of an Italian empire?
I have no statement to make on the subject of the interview between the Emperor of Abyssinia and the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs which took place on 2nd March.
Is the Prime Minister aware that the Foreign Secretary in another place has already intimated the Government's policy? I am asking here what the policy is.
The right hon. Gentleman asked me what passed at the interview.
If the right hon. Gentleman will look at the question, he will see that it asks for an explanation of the Government's attitude.
The right hon. Gentleman is mistaken; he asked whether an explanation was given in the course of the interview.
Inasmuch as a partial explanation has already been given by the Foreign Secretary in another place, may the House of Commons hear something of it? May not the House of Commons know what the policy of the Government is?
The right hon. Gentleman must content himself with the explanation given by the Foreign Secretary.
Would it not be as well if the right hon. Gentleman opposite read his questions before he put them down?
Post Office
Betting Frauds (Prosecutions)
64.
asked the Postmaster-General the number of prosecutions which have taken place in the last 12 months for which he has statistics for attempted swindles in connection with football pools and racecourse betting, respectively, either by means of collusion with officials inside the Post Office or by tampering with letters carrying misleading postal marks?
During the year 1937 the Post Office undertook the prosecution of 27 Post Office servants and 16 outside persons in connection with betting frauds. Seven of the prosecutions were in respect of football pools, nine in respect of racing pools and 27 in respect of betting on horse-races. In addition, the Post Office was concerned in 14 prosecutions for fraudulent betting undertaken by commission agents against outside persons. Ten of them were in respect of football pools, one in respect of racing pools and three in respect of betting on horse-races.
Telephone Charges (Nursing Associations)
65.
asked the Postmaster-General whether all district nursing associations are charged the business rate of hire for their telephones; and, if so, whether he will consider the question of charging them the lower private telephone rate?
Telephones rented by associations and listed in their names in the telephone directory are charged at the business rate. A telephone in the house of a nurse is charged at the residence rate, provided that nursing is not carried on in the premises and that the telephone directory entry makes no reference to the subscriber's profession. I regret that I am unable to make a further concession. I could not discriminate between one class of telephone subscriber and another.
Would the Postmaster-General not consider the question? I understand from the reply that if it is in the name of the association the telephone would have to be paid for at a higher rate. Surely it is not asking too much that it should be treated as a private telephone, in view of the very few calls that are put through?
My right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General has given very careful consideration to these matters, because he is very sympathetic towards charitable institutions; but there are difficulties in discriminating between what is a charitable institution and what is not.
Mail Contract
66.
asked the Postmaster-General when the mail contract with Messrs. David MacBrayne, Limited, expires, and whether it will be submitted to the House for renewal?
The contract is terminable on 31st October, 1938, subject to six months' notice being given. Any new contract which will be entered into will be submitted to the House.
Are there any conditions as to labour standards in the existing contracts, and, if not, will the Minister consider the inclusion of such conditions in any new contracts?
All these matters are being taken into consideration in connection with new contracts, but, under a Standing Order of this House, no contract can be accepted until it has received the approval of this House.
Air-Mail, London—Nairobi
67.
asked the Postmaster-General how long air-mail letters are scheduled to take between London and Nairobi; what proportion of letters did travel up to scheduled time during December and January last; and what was the maximum time taken by any letter during these two months?
The scheduled time of air transmission between Southampton and Nairobi, via the trunk route to Kisumu and thence by the feeder air service, is five days. During the months of December and January there were 26 outward flights, of which 21 were operated to schedule, three arrived within 24 hours of schedule and two arrived more than 24 hours late. The maximum air transmission time between Southampton and Nairobi on any one outward flight during the period was seven days.
House Of Commons
Broadcasting
68.
asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he has considered the desirability of placing a wireless set in some convenient room in the House so that Members may not continue to be at a disadvantage in the receipt of current news of national or international importance available to the general public?
Yes, Sir. But I find on inquiry that there is no considerable support for the hon. Member's suggestion in any section of the House.
Does the right hon. Gentleman not consider that a wireless set of this character could be used with great advantage for the large number of Government supporters who are continually absent from this House, although within the precincts of the House?
Clocks
69.
asked the First Commissioner of Works whether, in view of the fact that the trial clocks he has caused to be displayed over Mr. Speaker's chair have conclusively demonstrated that a second clock in the Chamber would be incongruous, unsightly, and useless, he will now, in deference to the wishes of Members of this House, abandon any further efforts to devise any more clocks?
I think that I have now devised for this problem a solution which is as satisfactory as possible. This was done in deference to the wishes of a majority of the Members of this House, and I propose ordering the permanent clock accordingly. Now that hon. Members can see the model, I hope that they will agree it is neither incongruous nor unsightly, and that it may not prove to be useless.
Is my right hon. Friend aware that from where I sit the clock looks crooked, and will he see that it is put in an accurate position?
Is the Minister aware that the only fault of the clock is that it is not going?
It is only a model.
Official Report
90.
asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury why, after the first issue of the OFFICIAL REPORT of this House for Monday and Tuesday, 21st and 22nd February, was exhausted, there was a delay of nearly a week before a further issue was available; and whether, in view of the inconvenience thus caused to Members and to the public, arrangements can be made for greater speed in future?
As soon as it was realised on 23rd February that the original print (which had been specially enlarged to meet the expected demand) was likely to be insufficient, reprints of both days' Debates were ordered. These reprints became available on the following Tuesday and Wednesday, that is, three and four working days respectively after the order was given. Cases where reprints of the daily REPORTS are required are very rare, as the normal number of 3,000 copies provides a substantial margin. In future when reprints become necessary, steps will be taken to expedite such further supplies as much as possible.
Croydon Airport
75.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he will consider taking immediate steps to improve the surface of Croydon airport, especially along the white fog-line?
Yes, Sir. Certain minor improvements to the surface at Croydon airport are under consideration. Work along the white fog-line has already begun.
76.
asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he will take immediate steps to illuminate the wind indicator by night at Croydon airport?
An illuminated wind I already exists at Croydon. Steps have, however, already been taken to provide, in addition, an illuminated wind stocking.
Adventure Colliery, Durham (Inspections)
77.
asked the Secretary for Mines how many inspections, under Section 16 of the Coal Mines Act, 1911, have been carried out at Adventure colliery, Durham, in 1936 and 1937?
Two such inspections were made in each year.
Is the Minister aware that this is the only colliery in Durham where the agreed examination formula is not allowed, and does he not think that, in the interests of safety, his Department should deal with the matter?
That is another question. I was only asked about how many examinations had taken place, and I have answered that.
Scotland
Councillors And Magistrates (Telephones)
78.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what cities and large burghs in Scotland provide telephone facilities to councillors and magistrates, respectively, and to what extent?
As the hon. Member will be aware, arrangements for the provision and use of telephones in municipal buildings are entirely a matter for the local authorities, and I regret that I am not in a position to give particulars of these arrangements in the various localities.
Local Government And Public Health (Committee)
81.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can see his way to add a woman member to the Committee on Local Government and Public Health?
The members of the committee referred to were appointed in consultation with the associations of local authorities in Scotland, and for their personal knowledge of the statutes involved. It is not at present proposed to add to their number.
Films Of Scotland Committee
82.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will consult with the Scottish Development Council with a view to appointing a woman member to the Films of Scotland Committee?
The appointment of this committee is primarily a matter for the Scottish Development Council themselves, though my right hon. Friend was consulted before a final decision was arrived at. My right hon. Friend understands that the members of the committee were selected because of their personal knowledge of the questions involved. He is not aware of any proposal for adding to the numbers of the present committee, but will bring the right hon. Member's question to the notice of the council.
Germany (Armed Forces)
80.
asked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence whether he can make a statement indicative of the Government's present information in regard to the military, naval, and air strength of Germany and the approximate rate of its growth?
I would refer the hon. Member to the information given in the latest edition of the League of Nations Armaments Year Book for 1937. As regards the naval strength, I would also refer him to the Command Paper "Fleets" (Command No. 5666) which was presented last month. His Majesty's Government have other information from a variety of sources, which it is not possible for me to give.
Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman is not prepared to give to the House such information in relation to the air strength, in particular, of Germany upon which his whole armament proposals, or a large part of them, are based?
I am not prepared to give the information referred to in the last part of my answer which we have obtained from a variety of sources.
Does that mean that we shall not be presented before considering the Defence Motion this afternoon with any Government estimate of the strength of the German air force?
Territorial Army (Technical Units)
84.
asked the Secretary of State for War what steps the Government propose to take to encourage enlistment in the Territorial Army of technical craftsmen?
In technical units where skilled tradesmen are required, county associations and units keep in close touch with the industries which can supply this need with a view to encouraging skilled men to join the Territorial Army. In the London Area a special committee has been formed to coordinate recruiting for technical units and other units which require skilled tradesmen.
Is my hon. Friend aware that the best way to encourage recruitment for the technical branches is to have modern equipment and apparatus?
British Army (Vocational Training)
85.
asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Army vocational training centres are to be transferred to the Ministry of Labour; and, if so, whether arrangements can be made to see that existing instructors are not thrown out of employment?
I hope the hon. Member understands that all soldiers who have not already received training in trades are eligible for vocational training in the last six months of their service; that they remain under Army control and are paid as soldiers during their training, though the training is given by the Ministry of Labour. When a decision has been reached as to the application of this principle to the Army centres which it may be decided to keep, every effort will be made to employ all suitable instructors. Arrangements to this end are under consideration.
Police Raid (Mayfair Flat)
86.
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he can give any information in connection with the Mayfair flat raid on Friday, 25th February how many men and women were arrested; and what they were charged with?
The police entered a flat in Mayfair on 25th February last in pursuance of a warrant issued at Bow Street Police Court for the arrest of the keeper of an alleged disorderly house. Eight persons have been charged, one with keeping a disorderly house and the rest with aiding and abetting. As the case is before the court, it would not be proper for me to give any further details.
Will the hon. Gentleman make inquiries between now and when the case comes on again as to the owner of the flats in question, what rents are charged, and how the flats are furnished?
Air-Raid Precautions
87.
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, and under what conditions, expenses incurred in connection with air-raid precautions will be allowed as a deduction from taxable income for the purposes of assessing liability to Income Tax?
I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer I gave on 2nd March to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Chertsey (Commander Marsden).
Budget Statement
88.
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is now able to announce the date upon which he proposes to open his Budget?
My right hon. Friend hopes that it will be possible for a statement to be made shortly.
Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman be able to answer my question if I put it down again this day week?
It may be possible to make a statement before the end of this week.
His Majesty's Ships "Boreas" And "Kempenfelt" (Able Seaman's Death)
(by Private Notice) asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can give particulars of the circumstances in which able seaman George Long of His Majesty's ship "Boreas" was killed by a bomb yesterday; and whether His Majesty's ship "Kempenfelt" and His Majesty's ship "Boreas" were acting in accordance with procedure agreed upon by the Non-intervention Committee in transferring back on to other Spanish Nationalist warships the survivors whom they had rescued from the sinking Nationalist cruiser "Baleares"; and what it is proposed to do with the remainder of the rescued seamen who are still on board His Majesty's ship "Kempenfelt"?
Yes, Sir. I very much regret to inform the House that able seaman George Long, of His Majesty's ship "Boreas" was killed by a bomb splinter while survivors picked up from the Spanish insurgent cruiser "Baleares" were being transferred from His Majesty's ships "Kempenfelt" and "Boreas" to the Spanish insurgent cruiser "Canarias." During the course of this operation, the Spanish cruiser "Canarias" was attacked by aircraft which dropped the bomb in question. The answer to the second part of the question is that this matter is not covered by the Non-intervention Agreement. With regard to the last part of the question, the remainder of the rescued seamen have been landed at Palma.
Can my hon. Friend say whether able seaman Long was deemed to have been killed in action, and whether his dependants, if any, will be treated in accordance with the regulations?
I think most certainly full compensation will be given.
While warmly welcoming the rescue work performed by His Majesty's ships, may I ask my hon. Friend whether he considers it necessary that British lives should be risked in this work of transhipping rescued seamen back to belligerent warships?
I appreciate the sentiment behind the question of my hon. Friend, but in carrying out this rescue the British Navy acts in accordance with the finest traditions.
Can the hon. Gentleman say on what grounds these seamen were transferred back to the insurgent forces and were not interned as they should have been, or would have been in an ordinary war?
His Majesty's Government do not take the view that we are bound by the obligations of neutrality.
Is it not the fact that in the Northern operations in Spain many thousands of those who were combatants in these actions were transferred by ship to France and, in fact, came back?
Equality of treatment is accorded to both sides. The House will remember the case of the Spanish Government destroyer which put in for repairs at Falmouth and remained there for three weeks. If the obligation of neutrality under the Hague Convention had been recognised by us, that ship should have been interned, but it was allowed to go on its way.
Is it not the fact that when the "Aboukir," the "Cressy," and the "Hogue" were sunk by a German submarine, a number of their crews were picked up by Dutch fishing craft, which took them to Holland, and they were promptly sent back to England?
Has the hon. Gentleman any information as to the nationality of the seamen rescued from the Franco cruiser, and, if not, will he take steps to ascertain it?
I have not that information, but I certainly will ascertain it.