asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) whether Mr. Julio Cæsar Arano, who is wanted in connection with acts of cruelty to the Natives of the Putumayo, is known to be in Peruvian territory; and whether the Peruvian Government is moving to effect his arrest and bring him to justice; (2) whether the Peruvian Government has arrested any persons, and, if so, how many, in connection with cruelties perpetrated in the Putumayo district of the Amazon; and, if any arrests have been made, whether any persons have been found guilty and punished?

I cannot answer a series of questions of detail about matters that are not under the control of His Majesty's Government. I propose to lay what information I have about the state of affairs in a district in which a British registered company and some British subjects were concerned, but pending the publication of these Papers I have no more to say.

asked when the Report of Sir Roger Casement on the Putumayo rubber atrocities will be published?

I propose to lay the Papers before the House very shortly—at any rate before the end of the month.

asked whether any, and, if so, how many, British subjects are still in the employ of the Arana Rubber Syndicate?

I have reason to believe that all the Barbadian British subjects formerly employed by the company have left. When Sir R. Casement left the Putumayo some months ago, there were, he believes, still four or five British subjects serving there in different capacities.

asked if the negotiations for a loan of sixty millions to the Chinese Government by the financiers known as the six-Power group have definitely broken down; and, if so, if he can state the reasons for their abandonment?

The negotiations for a loan, not necessarily of sixty millions, are still in progress.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he was in possession of Consular or other information to the effect that, when slaves in the Portuguese Islands of San Thomé and Principe demand and obtain their liberty, their wives and children are sometimes detained, being handed over to other men?

The people in question are not considered to be slaves, but indentured labourers. My attention has been called to statements to the effect, generally, mentioned by the hon. Member, and I some time ago instructed the Vice-Consul at St. Thomé to furnish a report on the subject.

Did the right hon. Gentleman receive a letter from a well-instructed officer denying all these statements?

I am not sure I have seen the letter referred to.

Will the Consular Report be laid upon the Table?

I cannot say until I have seen it.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received a communication from the Leeds Trades and Labour Council respecting the massacre by Russian soldiers of workmen in the Lena goldfields, Russia; and, if so, can he take any steps to bring the protest of Leeds trade unionists to the attention of the Russian Government?

I have received a communication from the body in question referring to the collision which took place between troops and strikers in the Lena goldfields. As I have frequently stated, His Majesty's Government cannot intervene in the internal affairs of another Power—we should certainly not ourselves admit or receive analogous protests through any foreign Government.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any official information which he can give this House of a mutiny in the Turkish Army at Monastir?

I have received information that desertions have taken place from the army at Dibra, but little information is to be had beyond that published in the Press in the form of communications from official Turkish sources.

Will this affect the right hon. Gentleman's decision in regard to his supplying officers to the Turkish Government?

I cannot say, pending further developments. That question depends upon the information the Turkish Government can give us, and what the duties are to be assigned to those officers.

asked what military authorities have been consulted on the question of the proposed Trans-Persian Railway; and whether such authorities have been asked to express an opinion for or against the general principle of direct railway communication between Russia and India, or whether they have merely been invited to suggest what conditions would make such a scheme least objectionable strategically?

The question of railway connection in general, as well as of a particular scheme, was considered, and the views of the chief military authorities upon it have been expressed to the Government of India and at home.

Has the Imperial Defence Committee been consulted as to the question of the Trans-Persian Railway?

The views of the chief military authorities of India have been expressed upon it, and have been considered both there and at home.

Do we understand that the views of the chief military authorities are in favour of this action?

I must refer the hon. Member to previous answers, in which I said I could not state the official views. I can only say we have received them, and that we will consider them.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the Abor tribesmen actually concerned in the murder of Mr. Williamson and Dr. Gregorson have been and, if so, in what manner and to what extent punished; whether the private property of the murdered officers still remains in the hands of the tribesmen; whether any punishment was inflicted on the village which plundered Dr. Gregorson's camp; whether the Sanpo party was recalled before it accomplished any geo graphical research; whether the Miris were punished for attacking the mission in their country; whether Rotung is being abandoned; if the answers to this question be in the affirmative, what results, if any, have accrued from the Abor expedition; and what were the instructions issued by the Government of India to General Bower?

Five persons were convicted of actual participation in the murder of Mr. Williamson and his party. Of these two were sentenced to transportation for life, two to imprisonment for ten years, and one to imprisonment for one year. Two other suspected ringleaders were among those killed during the military operations. Two persons have been arrested as ringleaders in Dr. Gregorson's murder, but the result of their trial has not yet been reported to the Secretary of State. The reports received show that certain articles belonging to Mr. Williamson were recovered in the course of the expedition. I am not aware if any of his property or that of Dr. Gregorson still remains in the hands of the tribesmen. All villages concerned in the outrage were suitably fined. The Sanpo exploration party was unable to proceed beyond Shinging owing to the lateness of the season; it was then withdrawn on General Bower representing that further advance was impracticable. A report on the geographical results achieved is awaited. The Miris who attacked Mr. Kerwood's camp on 14th February were repulsed with loss. No further punishment has been inflicted on them. As I stated on the 17th June, in reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Melton, it has been decided not to maintain a post at Rotung. As regards the results of the Abor expedition, I must refer the hon. Member to the Papers published in the "Gazette of India" on the 25th May, 1912, a copy of which will be found in the Library. The Secretary of State is not prepared, as at present advised, to publish the instructions issued to General Bower.

May I ask whether it is the case that the Government of India were in favour of the retention of Rotung?

It was a matter for the Secretary of State to decide, but I think I may say that the Government of India acquiesced.

asked whether, in the event of it being proposed, as a result of the Report of Sir William Nicholson's Committee, to make any changes in the numbers or constitution of the armed force at present maintained in India, an opportunity will be afforded of discussing the proposed changes before it is finally decided to carry them out?

I think my hon. and gallant Friend will agree that I am acting strictly in accord with precedent, when I decline to commit myself to definite action based on an as yet unrealised hypothesis. Nevertheless, I can assure him that the important request which he makes will be carefully considered when Sir William Nicholson's Committee has reported.

asked whether the Secretary of State has seen the Resolution of the Bengal Chamber of Commerce, dated 3rd May, addressed to the Government of India, in which that body repeats its opinion that the Departments of commerce and industry, posts and telegraphs, should continue to be stationed at Calcutta; and, if the answer be in the affirmative, whether he can inform the House what action the Government of India proposes to take in the matter?

The Secretary of State has seen the Resolution of the Bengal Chamber. The Government of India had already explained to the Chamber that the constitution of their Government did not permit of the permanent severance of one Department from the Administration; and that this was an insuperable obstacle to the location of the Commerce and Industry Department at Calcutta after the removal of the rest of the Government of India to Delhi. So far as the Secretary of State is aware, the Government of India have not modified this view.

Does that apply to posts and telegraphs also?

I presume that the whole thing is covered, but, as I understand, the Department of Commerce is responsible for telegraphs and posts.

asked whether the communications now being held with the Government of India regarding the case of Mr. Loftus Otway Clarke, district magistrate of Mymensingh, contemplate the award of compensation and, if the answer be in the affirmative, what kind of compensation to that officer for the loss and damage he has suffered in respect of the original and appellate decisions of the High Court of Calcutta, which have been reversed by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council?

The Secretary of State and the Government of India are considering whether Mr. Clarke shall receive compensation. It would at present be premature to make any further statement. I may point out that the Government of India have not yet received the full text of the Privy Council judgment, and that Mr. Clarke is at present on leave. Some little time must therefore elapse before the Government of India can submit to the Secretary of State a full expression of their views based on a careful examination of all the circumstances.

Will the hon. Gentleman make any communication to the House or myself when the matter is to be dealt with?

As soon as the matter bas been decided, I shall communicate with the hon. Gentleman by letter.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can give the last date previous to 1st May, 1912 on which a subaltern, Royal Garrison Artillery, was promoted; how many companies were without their proper complement of captains on the 1st May last; can be give the reasons why no subalterns were promoted to fill the then vacancies; is he aware, if no promotions are made, that during this year there will be seven subalterns between forty and forty-five years of age, forty-five between thirty-five and forty, and 148 between thirty and thirty-five, and 132 with over twelve years' service; and can he state how much longer the matter is to be under consideration before an announcement is made as to the Army Council's intentions with regard to the promotion of subalterns, Royal Garrison Artillery?

A promotion to captain was made with effect from 16th March, 1912. There were thirteen vacancies for captains on 1st May covered by thirteen unposted captains who were undergoing courses of instruction or on leave. The vacancies on the regimental establishment which occurred had, under Article 78 of the Royal Warrant for Pay, etc., to be filled by captains returning to regimental from extra-regimental employment. If no further promotions are made this year, there will, at the end of the year, be six subalterns between forty and forty-five years of age, forty-three subalterns between thirty-five and forty years of age, 141 subalterns between thirty and thirty-five years of age, and eighty-two subalterns with over twelve years' service. I am not at present in a position to make any statement as regards the last part of the question.

In view of the fact that forty-five years of age is to be the limit of age for a colonel, is it proposed to alter that limit?

No, Sir. I do not propose to make any alteration.

Is there any prospect for these veteran subalterns except retirement?

My right hon. Friend will make a statement on this subject at an early date.

On Thursday next?

Probably. I do not know.

asked the hon. Member if he will state the reasons for the delay in the completion of the alterations of the Duke of York's headquarters, and when the work will be finished?

Some delay has occurred, but it has not been very great, and it has been inevitable. When an old building has to be altered as well as new buildings provided, considerable time must elapse before all the details can be worked out so as satisfactorily to meet requirements. Some alterations in requirements have caused slight delay. During the last two months a further alteration has been asked for which will postpone completion. No date, therefore, can yet be given for completion.

asked whether the hon. Gentleman will explain why those officers of the Regular Army who served in the Zulu rebellion operations in 1906 have not been allowed to wear the medal granted by the Natal Government for those operations?

It was considered that as these were purely Colonial operations the grant of the medal should be confined to Colonial troops. Certain Imperial officers who were seconded for service with the Natal forces and were therefore regarded as forming part of the Colonial forces at the time were allowed to accept and wear the medal.

Is it not a fact that certain officers are allowed to wear those medals and others are not, and why is this distinction made?

If it be the case that certain Imperial officers were allowed, no doubt those who were not allowed were seconded.

Those who were not seconded and were not allowed to earn it went through the same danger.

I do not think that is the case.

I can give the hon. Gentleman a case.

asked if the hon. Gentleman can say why it is considered to be undesirable that men other than those enlisted should be permitted to perform as heretofore in Territorial bands?

Under the Territorial and Reserve Forces Act all men of the Territorial Force are required to be enlisted, and no man who is not enlisted may lawfully wear the King's uniform.

asked whether the hon. Gentleman can give the number of officers of the Territorial Force who resigned their commissions between the 1st of October, 1911, and the 30th of June, 1912?

The number from the 1st October last to 25th June amounted to 847.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, having regard to the nearness of the date when the National Insurance Act comes into operation, he can now state what progress has been made in the arrangements for securing the co-operation of members of the medical profession in the working of the Act; and whether, in the event of the Commissioners failing to meet the requirements of the doctors, what steps he proposes to take to provide medical benefit for insured persons, who will have commenced paying on 15th July for medical, attendance under those Clauses of Part I, of the Act relating to the cure of sickness?

I am unable at present to add anything to previous statements I have made on the subject. The Act promises to all insured persons from 15th January free medical attendance or a monetary equivalent. This premise has been set out in the insurance leaflets, and if the Commissioners find that the medical attendance in any district cannot be provided, the alternative which is provided in the Act Will be given to all insured persons.

What will be the amount of the equivalent in lieu of medical benefit?

The amount calculated according to the actuarial advice on which the Act is based is 6s., but I will not commit myself to that amount at present.

Does the hon. Member consider that, taken annually, the sum of 6s. as the cost of medical benefit can be regarded as an efficient means of insuring against sickness?

It is one-and-a-half times as much as 5,000,000 of the working classes are now paying for medical benefit.

Will 6s. be allowed for the soldier and the sailor?

I must have notice of that question.

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman had completed arrangements to provide medical benefits (doctor and medicine) before issuing the N.H. leaflet, in which a guarantee is given that except in special circumstances, a doctor and medicine will be provided?

The N.H. leaflet specifically declares that one of the benefits of the Act will consist of "doctor and medicine, or, in special circumstances, money payments instead." The Commissioners will have no difficulty in fulfilling this promise.

What are the special circumstances?

I think a general strike of the medical profession would be a special circumstance.

asked who is to determine, under the National Insurance Act, whether the rate of remuneration of an employed person, paid partly in money and partly in other ways, is equal to £160; and, if the initial valuation has to be made by the employer, must he in every instance submit it for official approval, and, if so, to whom?

Under the provisions of Section 66 of the Act, any question as to whether a person is in receipt of such a rate of remuneration as to be compulsorily insured falls to be determined by the Insurance Commissioners. Difficulties of this character can be referred in the first instance to the Customs and Excise officer (who is usually the pension officer), and will in many cases be so disposed of without becoming formal questions for decision by the Commissioners. If the employer and the employed can come to an agreement (with or without the help of the Customs and Excise officer) no reference to the Commissioners will be necessary.

asked whether, in view of the penalties inflicted under Clauses 69 and 70 of the National Insurance Act, a daughter who lives at home and assists with the housework will be compulsorily insured in the absence of any definite contract of employment; and whether she will be compulsorily insured when she receives pocket money but no definitely agreed wages?

A daughter who assists with housework will require to be insured if there is an actual contract of employment (whether the contract is expressed or only implied). and if she receives wages or some other money payment in respect of her employment. If, however, she has no definitely agreed wages, money not received by way of remuneration for the services would not render her liable to compulsory insurance.

Would she not be entitled to a certificate of exemption if she was mainly dependent upon her parents?

I am not sure whether she would come under that Clause or another. Perhaps I had better have notice of that question.

asked whether, under the provisional Regulations relating to the decision of questions by the Insurance Commissioners, it is provided that applications for the decision of questions may be referred to any officer of the Commissioners or other persons; and what authority there is under the National Insurance Act, 1911, to delegate the hearing of questions to officers and other persons?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The provisions in question are authorised by the regulation-making power under the Act. I may point out to the hon. Member that the Regulations do not purport to delegate the power to decide any question. The final decision will in all cases rest with the Commissioners.

Is it the case that the Regulations themselves actually provide that these questions may be referred to officers or other persons? I think I am quoting the words of the Regulation.

They may be referred to those persons, but the final decision must rest with the Commissioners, and the decision of the Commissioners cannot be delegated.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think there would be some difficulty in certain officers hearing a case and somebody else deciding it?

No, I do not think so. In cases where there is no decision by agreement full information will be sent to the Commissioners.

asked whether, by the provisional Regulations relating to the decision of questions by the Insurance Commissioners, it is provided that the Commissioners may give their decision forthwith, and dispense with the giving of notice of the application and the holding of a hearing?

It is provided by these Regulations that the Commissioners have power to act in the manner stated in the question in any cases where they think such a course proper.

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it is a judicial exercise of discretion to decide a case without hearing the applicant?

It will be a full judicial decision certainly, and, if it is necessary to hear the applicant, the applicant will be heard.

Does the right hon. Gentleman think the judicial discretion entrusted to the Commissioners by Parliament is exercised by stating they consider decisions without hearing the applicants?

asked in the case of a barge owner whose barges are sailed on the terms that the captain takes half the freight, finds and pays his mate, and pays half working expenses, including help, whether the captain, the mate, and any helper are liable to insurance under Part I. of the National Insurance Act; and, if so, who is liable for the employer's contributions payable in respect of each; and whether it is the intention of the Insurance Commissioners to make Regulations under Schedule III., Section 6, of the Act in such cases?

On the facts as stated by the hon. Member, it would appear that the mate and helpers, but not the captain, would require to be insured under the National Insurance Act. The barge owner and the captain as joint employers would be liable for the contributions. It is not the intention of the Insurance Commissioners to make Regulations under Paragraph (6) of Schedule III. to deal with these cases.

Would the right hon. Gentleman say whether the owner or the captain is liable to pay contributions in respect of the men?

The barge owner and the captain as joint employers are liable for the contributions.

Would the right hon. Gentleman say whether they will have to pay equally?

I think I will wait for notice of that question.

Would the right hon. Gentleman say when the Regulations—

The hon. Member cannot argue out details like that by supplementary questions. He must give proper notice if he wants to ask such questions.

asked, in the case of a married club steward, the terms of whose employment provide that his wife shall render assistance without wages, whether the wife is an employed, contributor under Part I. of the National. Insurance Act; and whether the employer of the steward will also have to pay 6d. a week for the wife?

In the case stated in the question, if the wife is in fact a servant of the club she will require to be insured and a weekly contribution of 6d. will normally be payable by the employer in respect of her.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether the governing body of a secondary school, working under a scheme approved by the Board of Education, can be regarded as an authority qualified to claim exemption for its employés from the provisions, of the National Insurance Act under the First Schedule, Part II. ( b ), of the Act, provided that the governing body conforms to the terms of employment therein stated?

I am advised that the governing body of such a school is not a public authority within the meaning of. paragraph ( b ) of Part II. of the First. Schedule.

asked what sum of money the Treasury have authorised the Local Government Board to grant to the Women's National Health Association from the Irish share of the Sanatoria Grant; whether the expenditure of this sum will be vouched to the Public Accounts Committee and, if so, by whom; whether there is any power to surcharge the president and members of the association for any portion of the Grant made to them which is unaccounted for or expended for purposes outside those for which the Grant is made; and what security is there that this association, to whom this public money is being entrusted, may not be dissolved at any time?

Upon the recommendation of the Local Government Board for Ireland, the Treasury, after consultation with the Irish Insurance Commission, has approved the grant of a sum not exceeding £25,000 out of moneys available for sanatorium purposes under the Finance Act, 1911, to the Woman's National Health Association of Ireland. There are no statutory conditions as to the audit of expenditure out of these Grants, which are, in terms of the Finance Act and the National Insurance Act, Grants-in-Aid of the institutions to which they are made, but the Grants will be made subject to such conditions as will secure their being expended for the purposes for which they are intended. The Grant now in question will be issued in instalments, the issue of each instalment after the first being made conditional upon the Local Government Board being satisfied as to the proper application of the preceding instalment, and arrangements will be made for securing that the institutions and services provided out of the Grants shall be made permanently available for the treatment of tuberculosis.

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that the money granted to the Women's Health Association will be exclusively devoted to the erection of sanatoria, and that no part of it will be utilised by the association for any other purpose?

I very gladly give the assurance that it will be exclusively devoted to the giving of sanatorium benefit.

The erection of sanatoria?

Sanatorium benefit, which will include dispensaries as well as sanatoria. No part will be devoted to anything outside the sanatorium benefits of the Bill.

Will the right hon. Gentleman make it a condition that this society will drop its political and proselytising efforts on behalf of the Nationalist party in Ireland in the name of philanthropy?

I know nothing about the proselytising efforts of this or any other society. The work of this society is specially recommended in the Astor Report in connection with Sanatorium work, and it is largely owing to that recommendation, as I understand, that the Insurance Commissioners, the Treasury, and the Local Government Board have agreed to give a Grant.

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that people will not be made magistrates merely because they attend meetings got up by this society?

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware of the fact that the good work done by this association is appreciated by the whole of the Irish people, and that the association is presided over by Lady Aberdeen, which is the reason of the attack made upon it?

asked whether the teachers of the Irish national schools with an income of under £160 a year are required to be insured under the National Insurance Act, or whether the Commissioners consider that the terms of their employment provide sickness and disablement benefits equal to those in the Act, and are therefore willing to give them exemption; and, if they are required to be insured, whether the managers are considered to be their employers, and in that case out of what funds are the employers' contributions to be paid?

Teachers to whom the National School Teachers (Ireland) Act, 1879 applies are specifically excluded under paragraph ( d ) of Part I. of the First Schedule of the Act, without further consideration of the actual terms of the provision made in sickness being required in each case. Teachers in schools known as model schools, who are not so excepted, would require to be insured unless their employers, the Commissioners of Education, obtain exceptions for them under the conditions of paragraph ( b ) of Part II. of the same Schedule. Other Irish national school teachers are employed by the managers of the schools, and not by a public authority, and would therefore require to be insured in all cases where the Act of 1879 does not apply. Where the teachers are insured the employers are responsible for paying the contributions in the first instance, i.e., where the managers are the employers the managers are responsible, and they would pay the money from funds in their hands in their capacity as managers.

asked the approximate number of appointments already made and proposed to be made in Ireland under the National Insurance Act; the nature of the duties to be performed; the salaries payable and terms of service, pensions, etc.; whether by open competition or selection; and any other information necessary to acquaint intending applicants for vacancies?

The appointments already made in Ireland in connection with Part I. of the National Insurance Act consist of four Commissioners, one secretary, one assistant secretary, one accountant, one actuary, one legal adviser, four first-class clerks, two assistant accountants, eight second-class clerks, two examiners, six second division clerks, four assistant clerks, two lady typists, and twenty-five temporary organising lecturers. With regard to the details of salary and nature of appointment, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to Cd. 6095 and the Civil Service Estimates, Class 8. Outdoor staff inspectors, assistant inspectors, and health officers will be appointed in accordance with Section 15 of the Interdepartmental Committee Report on outdoor staff presented to Parliament (Cd. 6231), the nature of their duties, their salaries, and terms of appointment will be set forth in the Report. I am sending copies of the above Papers to the hon. and gallant Member.

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that proper notice is published in the newspapers throughout Ireland of these appointments and not keep them all specially reserved for the Castle set?

I believe full advertisement has been given for all these appointments throughout the whole of Ireland. I think the number of applications that have been received, which amounts to a very large number of thousands, shows that is the case.

asked whether any sick pay is guaranteed to those persons between sixty-five and seventy who will have the full contribution deducted from their wages under the National Insurance Act;.and, if so, will he say how much?

Under Section 49 (3) of the Act, the character of the benefits provided for such persons is left within the discretion of societies. For their guidance the Commissioners have issued a circular, No. A.S. 29, of which I am sending a copy to the hon. Member, with two alternative schemes of benefits which will be actuarially sound, one giving sick benefits and the other small annual allowances by way of addition to pensions or other allowances the insured person may be receiving from his society or elsewhere. Under the former of these the rate of sick pay would be 6s. a week for thirteen weeks and 5s. for a further thirteen weeks.

Are we to understand that there is no statutory guarantee that they are to receive any sick pay?

There is no statutory guarantee that any one is to be received into any society.

Will the right hon. Gentleman circulate the information to all Members?

I am trying to send all information to everyone. I have twice asked hon. Members who desired the information to send in their names, and I shall be very glad to send them the information.

I sent in my name a long time ago and I received none.

I shall be glad to investigate into that.

asked which were the friendly societies that asked that the official lectures on the National Insurance Act should be private and that no reports should be given to the Press; and whether the prohibition of publicity has been confined to lectures arranged for those societies?

The request that these conferences should normally be private was very strongly pressed at the conferences with representatives of the friendly societies and trade unions in January last when the scheme of lectures was put before them. As I have often stated, the Press are admitted wherever those who are arranging the meeting desire that they shall be.

asked for how long a period it is proposed that the official lectures on the National Insurance Act shall continue; what has been the total cost in respect of them; whether any complaints have been received from local secretaries of friendly society bodies regarding the way in which these lectures have been organised; and in how many cases have the Insurance Commissioners written to express their regret?

Lectures will be continued where and as long as they prove to be necessary, though their number may be expected to be reduced as the Act comes into operation. With regard to their cost, I would refer the hon. Member to the rough estimate of the cost of lectures, leaflets, etc., which I gave to the hon. Member for Enfield on the 9th May. While the lectures are still in progress I am unable to state the exact cost. I cannot undertake to examine the voluminous correspondence entailed by the arrangement of several thousands of lectures to say whether there have been any complaints by any individual on any point of detail; but the Commissioners have overwhelming evidence that the lectures have been of the greatest value to those for whom they were designed and indeed essential to the efficient working of the Act through approved societies.

Will the right hon. Gentleman give a Return of the expenses incurred by those gentlemen giving lectures in the Ilkeston Division?

I am not sure any lectures were given in the Ilkeston Division.

They have not been very successful.

Have there not been many complaints from Shropshire that the lectures were private?

As I have explained over and over again, none were private except at the wish of those organising the meetings.

Does that apply to small villages?

To everybody in common. If any hon. Gentleman opposite chooses to organise a meeting in his own district, we shall very gladly send a lecturer.

were those people who gave those lectures paid by the Government,.and does that not make a difference?

It makes a difference to the lecturers. I do not think it makes any difference to the system I have outlined.

asked whether there is anything in the National Insurance Act or in the Insurance Commissioners' Regulations to prevent an employer demanding the production of the workman's insurance book before agreeing to employ him?

The employer is not authorised to demand the workman's health insurance book, nor is the workman required to produce it. If an employer makes it a condition of engagement that he shall be informed of any fact contained in the book, whether by seeing that book or otherwise, he does so without either right of excuse under the Act or the Regulations, and he has no more power to require an insurance book in future than he had power to demand production of a friendly society or trade union card or book in the past.

asked whether the National Insurance Commission intend to make Regulations providing that approved societies are only to be allowed 5d. a year per man for managing the maternity benefits and all other administrative expenses in respect of members who are seamen, marines, or soldiers, in addition to an initial sum of 9d. for preliminary expenses; and whether this annual allowance can be supplemented, so as to make it reasonably possible for societies to take such men without actual loss?

As stated in my answer of the 27th June, the actual sums available with the State Grant for the above purposes are not 5d. and 9d. but 6 3–7d. and 1s. The expenses of administration in connection with this class of insured persons are very small, and societies will probably find the above sums more than adequate. No representation has, so far as I am aware, been made by the societies interested as to the inadequacy of the amount allowed, and I consider it would be inadvisable to supplement it at the expense of the funds available for benefits.

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to consider representations from societies who are desirous of taking soldiers and sailors?

Certainly; if the hon. Gentleman has any representations to make I will gladly consider them.

asked whether, when small societies apply to the National Health Insurance Commissioners to be separately approved, with a view to association for the purposes of periodical valuation in a county association, in preference either to merger in a centralised county society or to affiliation with such a society as branches, such applications can be promptly dealt with by the Commissioners on the desired basis, instead of delaying such action on the chance of the applicants changing their views in a direction more in accord with the views of the Commissioners?

The Commissioners have always recommended some form of common action between small approved societies. But there is no ground for the suggestion that they favour centralisation or affiliation as against association. All applications for separate approval are being dealt with as promptly as is possible, and the Commissioners have prepared a simplified procedure with rules specially adapted to the needs of small societies which should enable every such society that is eligible for, and desires to receive approval, to become approved at the earliest possible date after its application is received.

On what grounds do the Commissioners on some occasions decline to give advice to small societies and clubs?

I have no knowledge of any such action on the part of the Commissioners, and if the Noble Lord will bring it to my notice I will have it inquired into.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether, in view of the number of letters from persons connected with or interested in small friendly societies which are remaining unanswered at the offices of the National Health Insurance Commission (England) owing to the pressure of work upon the existing staff there, to the increasing inconvenience and anxiety of the committees of such societies, he will secure the temporary appointment of a larger staff to reply promptly to such letters?

The Insurance Commissioners fully realise the necessity of dealing as expeditiously as possible with correspondence received by them. I am not aware that a number of letters are remaining unanswered at the Commission, but if the hon. Member will notify me of any cases he has in mind I will have inquiry made. I may add that those connected with societies which desire to become approved, and especially Members of Parliament and others who are interested in smaller societies, would find the necessity for prolonged correspondence obviated if a representative could personally call at the Insurance Commission and discuss any particular difficulties with one of the staff.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very general complaint in the South of England that letters addressed by the executives of small societies indicating their wish to be approved receive no reply other than a mere formal reply adumbrating further communications which are not received?

When I saw the hon. Gentleman's question on the Paper I investigated the matter as far as I could, and I did not find that it was the case on any large scale. The difficulty with small societies is that they do not quite immediately understand what they have to do in connection with approval. That is why we shall be glad to see anyone like the hon. Gentleman, who is making this a special question, in order that we may settle the difficulty at once.

asked the Chief Secretary whether the Women's National Health Association, acting on behalf of certain county councils, has purchased the Peamount estate, near Lucan, for the purpose of sanatoria for consumptives; whether a Grant for the purchase has been authorised by the Local Government Board and approved by the Treasury; if he can state what county councils the Women's National Health Association is acting for in this matter; if these councils will be liable for any contribution from rates towards the capital expenditure incurred; whether he is aware that the interim Report of the Departmental Committee on Tuberculosis recommended that only three-fifths of the cost of sanatoria should be defrayed from the Grant; whether, if the Local Government Board have departed from this principle in the case of the association presided over by Lady Aberdeen, he will be prepared to give the same terms to other voluntary associations and to those county councils who find themselves competent to do their own work without the assistance of Lady Aberdeen's association; and will he undertake, if the whole of the purchase-money for the Peamount estate is to come from the Grant, that a professional independent valuer shall be employed to report whether the estate is value for the money which the owner asks for it and which the Women's Health Association is willing to pay?

The answer to the first two paragraphs of the question is in the affirmative. The Local Government Board understand that the Women's National Health Association is acting in co-operation with the councils of the counties of Leitrim, Meath, Westmeath, and Donegal. The arrangements between the association and county councils in regard to contributions are not yet definitely settled in each case, but the hon. Baronet may rest assured that whatever conditions are imposed as regards the Grants given to the Women's National Health Association and the counties working in co-operation with it will also apply to other counties and voluntary associations working on their behalf. Reports have been made by eminent experts testifying to the good quality of the land and the suitability of the estate for sanatorium purposes, and an independent valuation does not appear to be necessary. The estate has been conveyed to independent trustees.

Can the right hon. Gentleman assure us that the money which has been granted to the Women's National Health Association will not be applied to any other purpose than the erection of sanatoria?

No portion of the money will be used for any other purpose than those for which it is authorised to be used under the Act in question. None will be used by the association for its own purposes.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in consequence of the action of himself and the Financial Secretary to the Treasury there is a great deal of dissatisfaction amongst all who are interested in sanatoria in Ireland at the giving of this money to Lady Aberdeen?

The money is not given to Lady Aberdeen.

Does the right hon. Gentleman approve of building a sanatorium at Lucan, in county Dublin, 200 miles away from Donegal and Leitrim?

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman will say what loans for the housing of miners have been made during the past six years ending 31st December, 1911, under Clause 67 of the Housing of the Working Classes Act,. 1890, in the counties of Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Yorkshire, respectively, and the total amount of loans made in the same period and for the like purpose in England, Scotland, and Wales, respectively?

The total amount granted by the Public Works Loan Commissioners for the housing of the working classes, under Section 67 of the Housing of the Working Classes Act, 1890, during the last six financial years (ending 31st March, 1912) was £1,118,726. The amount required for the housing of miners specially has not been kept distinct in any way, and therefore figures cannot be given stating what portion of the total sum granted has been devoted to this purpose.

Is the hon. Member aware that the total sum for this purpose is nothing?

I was not aware of it.

I am.

asked if the right hon. Gentleman will state the total sum of money advanced under Clause 67 of the Housing of the Working Classes Act for the construction of workmen's dwellings in Great Britain during the past six years ending 31st December, 1911, and the total sum of money guaranteed by the Treasury and provided during the same period for the acquisition of land and houses in Ireland to enable Irish farmers to become their own landlords; and whether, seeing that the Treasury in the case of loans for the building of workmen's houses in Great Britain only advance 50 per cent, of the cost, whereas the full amount of the holding is advanced for the purposes of the Irish farmer, he will now give attention to the claims of the working classes in Great Britain?

As I have stated in reply to the previous question, the total amount advanced under Section 67 of the Act of 1890 in the six years ended 31st March last was £1,118,726. As regards the last part of the question, I do not think that the circumstances are sufficiently similar to justify the comparison which my hon. Friend would institute.

I did not ask for any expression of opinion. I asked for an answer to the question on the Paper, namely, what is the total sum of money advanced for the purposes I have stated in the question.

I have given the answer, I hope, courteously.

asked whether, seeing that Clause 67 of the Housing of the Working Classes Act, 1890, provides that, to encourage the better housing of working men, loans amounting to 50 per cent. on the cost may be advanced for this purpose, the right hon. Gentleman will say what steps, if any, he has taken to encourage and further the provisions of this Bill; whether he has since his term of office placed at the disposal of the Loan Commissioners sufficient funds to enable them to carry out the Act; and whether the Loan Commissioners have had to refuse loans for this purpose, having regard to the amount of money placed at their disposal by him?

The Public Works Loan Commissioners have not, at any time, had to refuse loans, for the purposes of the Housing of the Working Classes Acts, in consequence of the limited amount of money placed at their disposal by Parliament.

Is the hon. Member aware that the Public Works Loan Commissioners have stated definitely in writing that they are unable to make loans for this purpose because the Chancellor of the Exchequer has not placed sufficient money at their disposal? I have that in writing from them.

I am not aware of it. If I had been I should not have given the answer I have just given.

asked if the right hon. Gentleman will say, in view of the statement he made at Cardiff on 29th December, 1911, that the housing conditions in certain districts in South Wales were a disgrace to civilisation, whether he is aware that the Public Loan Commissioners have recently refused to sanction loans for the housing of miners in Yorkshire to a Welsh firm of builders on the ground that such a scheme was not of public benefit; whether he is aware that this refusal has resulted in the builders erecting cheap houses without baths and the other conveniences which are compulsory under the Housing Act; and, if so, what action he proposes to take?

I am informed that the application to which the hon. Member refers was probably one which was made by a firm who appeared to the Public Works Loan Commissioners to be speculative builders, whose scheme was on ordinary commercial lines, who declined to enter into the covenants usually required by the Commissioners restricting the rents or otherwise limiting the profits to be derived from the buildings, and the loan was refused on the ground that the work was not of such a benefit to the public as would justify a loan out of public money.

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether, seeing that under the Housing of the Working Classes Act, 1890, plans of dwelling houses have to be approved by his Department before a loan is sanctioned, he will say why his Department require four complete sets of drawings of every general plan, four sets of plans of the houses and the elevations of the said houses, and four sets of drainage plans, water plans, etc.; whether he is aware that city councils and other public bodies charged with the same business only require one complete set of plans; whether a complete set of plans in duplicate would be sufficient for the purpose of his Department; will he say what is done with all the numerous plans; and if the designs are treated as confidential within the Department?

The First Commissioner understands that two sets of plans are asked for by the Public Works Loan Board. Only one set is forwarded to the Office of Works. The designs are treated as confidential within the Department.

May I ask whether it is not a fact that four sets of plans have to be sent? I had to send four sets, two and three years ago.

The hon. Member is under a complete misapprehension. Four sets of plans are not asked for. Only one set of the two which are asked for comes to the Office of Works.

Where do the others go to? Are they sent to the Public Works Loan Commissioners?

The Public Works Loan Commissioners lend money, and ask the Office of Works to decide whether the buildings are suitable to lend money on. Therefore, two sets were required, one for the Public Works Loan Commissioners and one for the Office of Works, and only two were asked for.

If I send the hon. Gentleman the copy of a letter from the Office of Works asking for four sets of plans will he withdraw the statement he has just made?

I investigated the matter carefully this morning, and this is the state of affairs as it appears to me at the present time.

asked if the right hon. Gentleman will say why persons liable to duties on land values should continue to be served with notices and communications relating thereto, notwithstanding that they have expressly signed paragraph ( s ) in Form IV., requesting that all notices and communications of every description should be addressed to their solicitors or agents?

As far as possible effect is given to a request made by an owner in his return that communications in regard to matters arising out of the return should be sent to an agent or solicitor, but as regards the service of copies of provisional valuations the Commissioners are advised that such a request does not relieve them from their statutory obligation under Section 27 (1) of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, to serve a copy of such valuations on the owner. If, however, an owner specifically authorises the service of copies on an agent instead of on himself, it is the practice of the Commissioners to act on this authority.

Will the hon. Gentleman indicate some new form of words which should be adopted in order to convey that intimation to those who desire the service of copies on their agents?

I will inquire, and if I find anything further is necessary I will communicate with the hon. Gentleman. This is the first time the point has been brought to my notice.

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture if he can state the extent of the Australian fruit trade with the United Kingdom; and if any steps are taken by his Department to help this industry?

The answer to the first part of the question involves the recital of statistics which perhaps the hon. Member will allow me to circulate with the Votes. The answer to the second part of the ques- is in the negative. [ See Written Answers this date. ]

asked if the right hon. Gentleman can now give the name of the expert entomologist who will give advice on insect pests to the head of the new Horticultural Department of the Board; and if he can state who will be the other seven scientific experts in this Department?

I am not yet in a position to give the information for which the hon. Member asks.

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether experiments have been carried through with regard to different filaments for the electric lights of the House; and, if so, whether he can state the conclusions obtained?

Experiments with different filaments were not carried out as the tungsten filament was considered the best.

asked whether the First Commissioner of Works will take steps to preserve the old houses in Whitehall Gardens, now endangered by the Public Offices (Sites) Bill, in accordance with the principle of the Bill for preserving important buildings lately introduced by him in the House of Lords?

There are very few rooms worthy of preservation in these houses, which have no great architectural merit. The First Commissioner has given instructions for the preservation of the ancient crypt of the Palace of Westminster, and expects also to be able to protect certain other portions. The matter has not been lost sight of in the preparation of the Bill.

asked whether the firm which carried out the work on the steam mains at the General Post Office did not fulfil the terms of the Fair-Wages Resolution; and what the First Commissioner of Work proposes to do in the matter?

The Board's officers, having ascertained that the contractors were not complying with the terms of the Fair-Wages Resolution, called upon them to refund to the men underpaid the difference between the amounts they had actually received and the amounts to which they were entitled. This has been done, and the workmen's receipts duly furnished to the Department.

asked the Prime Minister if the Government intend to give any expression to the general appreciation felt by the public for the prompt, efficient, and successful work done in the saving of life in the "Titanic" disaster by the commander and officers and crew of the steamship "Carpathia"?

Immediately upon the first arrival of Captain Rostron in this country after the disaster to the "Titanic," my right hon. Friend the Attorney-General publicly expressed to him, at the Court of Inquiry into the loss of the "Titanic," the thanks of His Majesty's Government for his services in saving the lives of more than seven hundred passengers and crew. The promptitude and energy with which Captain Rostron hastened to the assistance of the "Titanic" and picked up her boats are worthy of the best traditions of British seamanship. In paying this, the highest tribute in our power, to Captain Rostron, and with him, to the officers and crew of the "Carpathia," I am expressing, I feel assured, the general feeling not only in this country but throughout the world.

Will the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to inquire what steps were taken to recognise the gallant services of the officers and men who rescued life in the case of the wreck of the "Delhi," and whether in that case steps were taken by the Board of Trade to make recommendations in respect of those men, and whether that precedent will be followed in the present case?

I will consult my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in the event of the Government of Ireland Bill becoming law, the existing rights of transfer and exchange will be retained to those Civil servants who by the terms and conditions of their appointment are ordinarily transferable; and whether arrangements will be made by the Civil Service Commissioners to facilitate transfers in the case of any of these officers who may desire to transfer from the Irish to the Imperial service.