asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give the latest information with regard to Mr. Pooley, who is being subjected to examination by a secret court of inquiry in Japan; whether he is aware that Mr. Pooley was arrested without any charge being formulated against him and placed, in the depth of winter, in an unheated cell; that domiciliary visits were made at Mr. Pooley's house and the house of his private solicitor; and that his wife was summoned and hastily interrogated; and whether any remonstrance has been made by our Ambassador against such treatment of a British journalist?

According to the statement made in the Japanese Chamber by the Minister of Justice, Mr. Pooley was arrested on a charge of purchasing stolen goods and of blackmail. He was still in custody on 10th March and being examined (in secret) before a preliminary Civil Tribunal. It is stated that he has applied for bail but that his application has not been granted. He has made no complaint of any sort since his arrest to either His Majesty's Ambassador at Tokyo or to His Majesty's Consul-General in Yokohama, in whose consular district Tokyo lies. We have no information that Mr. Pooley is being otherwise than properly treated in prison and in the absence of any complaint from him or his counsel who, I understand, have liberty of access to him, His Majesty's Government have no reason for making any remonstrance to the Japanese Government. I may add that noticing that Mr. Pooley's room was stated to be unheated the Ambassador asked that inquiries might be made and this defect remedied.

asked whether any readjustment or exchange of territory is being negotiated with France in respect of French possessions in India?

No negotiations are actually in progress, and to that extent the answer to the hon. Member's question is in the negative. On the other hand, we have verbally indicated a desire to discuss and find some means of adjusting with the French Government the difficulties that arise from the neighbourhood of the French colonies and of British possessions.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give any information as to the part taken by Messrs. Vickers in the recent formation of the Russian Artillery Works Company, which is engaged in establishing works near Tzaritzin, on the Volga, for the production of artillery and artillery ammunition for the use of the Russian Government; whether Messrs. Vickers hold a large proportion of the shares of this company; whether they are under a contract to build and equip the works of the company and to co-operate for a period of fifteen years in the conduct of the business of the company; whether Messrs. Vickers have agreed to place their entire knowledge of the technics of the work and all patents, improvements, etc., in their possession at the disposal of the Russian company; and whether, in view of the fact that Messrs. Vickers are one of the five chief firms who contract with His Majesty's Government for the construction of armaments, the action they have taken in the formation of this Russian company has his sanction and consent?

The only information I have on this subject is from a Russian newspaper, which states that Messrs. Vickers, Maxim and Company are closely connected with the "Society of Artillery Factories" at Tzaritzin, who have concluded a contract with the Russian Government to supply armaments until the 1st of January, 1926.

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell me whether the other facts stated in the question are substantially correct?

No, Sir. I really know nothing whatever about the matter. I have had no communication at all on the subject. The hon. Member's question on the Paper and what has appeared in the Press is absolutely all I know.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is the policy of His Majesty's Government to encourage or discourage the action of contractors in arming other Powers?

On that general question I gave an answer last week, which completely answers the question the hon. Member has now put.

Will not the right hon. Gentleman inquire of Messrs. Vickers whether these facts are true?

I do not see what reason I have for making an inquiry, or on what ground I could inquire. The moment you begin to inquire about these matters you assume, in some sense, responsibility for them.

Does the right hon. Gentleman think this is really the best way of strengthening the defences of the Indian Empire?

We cannot undertake to supervise the operations of British firms applying for contracts abroad, unless there appears to be some special reason or ground for interfering which is brought to our notice.

asked whether the Government of the French Republic, while placing the fullest confidence in the Cabinet of Washington has dispatched the French cruiser "Condé" to Vera Cruz in order to ensure the effectual protection of French nationals in Mexico; and whether His Majesty's Government, in the same circumstances, proposes to take similar steps for the protection of the lives and property of British subjects?

The French cruiser "Condé" was sent to Mexican waters last October. The British Fourth Cruiser Squadron has had its headquarters in Mexican waters for some time past, and Mexican ports are constantly being visited. For instance, a few day ago the "Hermione" was at Tampico and the "Essex" on the way to Vera Cruz from Galveston.

Have these ships instructions to protect the "lives nnd properties of British subjects?

The object of the ships being in these waters is that they should give, when it is necessary and so far as they can, protection to British lives and property.

Have they such instructions?

The instructions to the Admiral in command are to do what he can to give protection to British lives and property in emergency.

asked the Under-secretary of State for India whether any recent report has been received on the conditions of labour in the Lushai Hills; and, if not, whether he can state the probable date at which a report may be expected?

A report is expected before the end of this month.

asked whether the Government of India proposes to legislate in view to terminating the loss by continued mismanagement and misappropriation of religious endowments?

The Government of India are at present investigating the subject.

Does the hon. Gentleman know how many years they have been investigating the matter?

asked what compensation it is proposed to pay to Cavalry officers of the Indian Army, who, though otherwise qualified, will be debarred from being appointed as commandants of their regiments by paragraph II. of the recent Indian Army Order, No. 690, which reduces the age limit for such appointments to forty-eight years?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given on the 17th February. The Secretary of State has ascertained from the Government of India that they are considering the representations of certain officers respecting the new rules, and will shortly address him on the subject.

Will my hon. Friend say what sort of compensation they are likely to get?

No, Sir. I must await the Report which we are expecting to receive.

When will my hon. Friend be able to tell us what the compensation is?

There shall be no delay when we have heard from the Government of India.

Is the question of compensation being considered?

Yes. I think it is being considered.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been called to the growth of the cocaine traffic in India; whether he is aware that considerable quantities of the drug are imported from Germany; and whether negotiations will be opened with the German Government with a view to the prevention of the present illicit trade?

The Secretary of State is aware of the facts as stated. He is afraid that any international arrangements for the suppression of the illicit traffic in cocaine must await the ratification and coming into force of the Hague Opium Convention. His Majesty's Govern- ment are doing all they can to secure the general and early adoption of the Convention.

Has the Opium Convention yet been signed?

It has been signed, I think, but it has not yet been ratified. I believe we may hope it will be ratified at a very early date.

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the amount of cocaine that is now going into China imported from Great Britain, and cut it off at the source, if possible?

I think legislation is actually being considered and framed with a view to carrying out the provisions of The Hague Opium Convention.

asked which of the provinces contributed to the increased revenue of £453,800 from Excise shown in the revised Estimate for 1913–14; what the amount of such increase was in each of the provinces; what is the basis upon which the further estimated increase of £241,800 in 1914–15 is calculated; whether a substantial increase has, without a break, been annually shown in the Returns during the last twenty years; and whether the Government of India can hold out any hope that a reduction in the consumption of liquor will be secured in the near future?

The increase in 1913–14 occurred chiefly in Bengal and Madras. Until the text of the Financial Statement arrives I am unable to give the figures for each province or to state precisely the grounds on which the several provinces base their expectations of revenue in the coming year. I am aware of the increase of Excise revenue referred to, and with regard to the last part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the speech of the Viceroy in Calcutta in December last as indicating the anticipation of the Government of India.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will in future include palliasses in the camp equipment provided by the War Office for the annual training of cadet units?

I would refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply given to the hon. Member for the Montgomery District Division on the 3rd July, 1912.

Does that mean that provision will be made for these palliasses or will not?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply. It is a difficult question. We are anxious to help as much as we can, but I cannot go beyond the statement I then made.

asked what part, if any, of the Forest of Dean will be included in the area of this year's Army manœuvres?

The manœuvre area includes the northern extremity of the forest— i.e., that portion which lies between Lea and the Roman Road.

asked whether the two Divisions of the Cavalry Brigade in Ireland which took part in the manœuvres last year could not muster more than 12,000 men; whether in some regiments the physical appearance of the men was unsatisfactory; whether battalions were brought out from 300 to 500 strong, and other arms to match; whether the manœuvres took place before the trooping season; and whether the effect of the trooping season is to deplete the ranks at Home of mature men and to increase the number of immature boys unfit for active service?

The number stated in the first part of the question is, approximately, correct, but the suggestion that the physical appearance of the men was unsatisfactory is not borne out by any reports rendered to the Army Council. These reports, on the contrary, testify to the soldierly bearing and good spirits of the troops in trying circumstances due to the inclemency of the weather. The condition of the troops stationed in Ireland does not differ materially from that of troops quartered elsewhere in the United Kingdom, and I must express my astonishment that the hon. and gallant Gentleman should seek, by means of suggestions such as are contained in this question, to disparage and belittle the British soldier, to whom he owes so much.

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been drawn to a report of the military correspondent of the "Times" on 20th September last?

I have stated the report which I have received from the military authorities. It is on those reports that I rely, and they testify unanimously to the excellent bearing and behaviour of the troops in Ireland.

asked if the 38th Brigade of Royal Field Artillery, now stationed at Fermoy and Waterford and under orders to proceed to Kildare, is being trained as Mounted Infantry?

The brigade in question is being trained as Field Artillery. Some mounted work with rifles was done during individual training in order to vary the work and give out-of-door training during the winter.

asked whether an officer is entitled to see all the confidential reports in regard to his efficiency made by the officer commanding his battalion?

The regulations now prescribe that the annual confidential reports rendered by commanding officers on the officers under their command shall in all cases be communicated to the officers concerned.

asked whether the number of batteries of Horse and Field Artillery, regiments of Cavalry, and battalions of Infantry of the Regular Army, stationed in Ireland, amount to twenty-four batteries of Artillery, three regiments of Cavalry, twenty battalions of Infantry, and, if so, whether they are distributed as detailed on pages 29 and 30 of the Monthly Army List, published for the current month; and whether any other units of Horse and Field Artillery, Cavalry, and Infantry, in addition to the depots are now stationed in Ireland which are not shown in that Army List?

The pages of the current Monthly Army List to which the hon. and gallant Gentleman refers show correctly the units of Artillery, Cavalry, and Infantry now stationed in Ireland.

asked the Secretary of State for War when he will be in a position to make definite proposals with regard to the increased permission to marry in the service and to the extension of privileges to the wives of soldiers, who are now regarded as married off the strength; and what the approximate cost of such proposals will amount to?

I am not at present able to add anything to what I stated in Debate on the 12th instant.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, seeing that married officers are compelled to incur large personal expense when frequently changed from one station to another, owing to the Government allowance for the carriage of their baggage or household furniture being often limited to a few shillings, and always wholly in adequate to defray this necessary expenditure, he will take steps to ensure the repayment to such officers of their full out-of-pocket expenses if proved to be reasonable and inevitable, as in the case of Civil servants when moved from one locality to another in the execution of their public duties?

I am prepared to consider whether the existing scale is inadequate, but at the same time I would point out in this connection that a large sum has been placed on the Estimates of the coming year for the benefit of officers.

asked why Lieutenant H. W. Foot was removed from the Special Reserve of Officers in September last; and why no reason was given to him for his removal?

Lieutenant Foot was removed for disregard of authority in re-publishing a pamphlet, after he had been censured in regard to it. The official letter calling for Lieutenant Foot's explanation stated clearly what was the offence.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the War Office gave him leave to publish the pamphlet, and that it would not have been published if he had not had leave?

No, the exact contrary is the case.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Lieutenant Foot has got War Office leave to publish it?

No. I should be glad to remove the misapprehension. Lieutenant Foot applied for leave to publish the book, of which only a portion was submitted to the War Office. When the book was published it was found that it contained a very strong attack on the Admiralty, with which, of course, the War Office had nothing to do, of which they had seen nothing before. They therefore told this officer through the ordinary channels that this attack on the Admiralty was wrong, and the book should not be republished in that form. Nevertheless the officer, for reasons that I do not know, did republish the book and was therefore removed.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Lieutenant Foot first asked the Admiralty about the book, and was told to apply to the War Office for leave to publish?

No, I can assure the hon. Member that he has got hold of the wrong end of the story. I shall be glad to send him the whole correspondence, which will show that the facts I have stated are accurate in every particular.

asked whether the aeroplane B E 204 had been repaired; and, if so, when?

The last repair to this machine was carried out in February of this year.

asked when was the aeroplane B E 204 built; and when was it last overhauled apart from the examination supposed to take place before each flight?

This machine was handed over to the Military Wing on 28th June, 1912. It was sent back to the Royal Aircraft Factory for complete overhaul on 26th July, 1913, and handed back to the Military Wing on the 19th September following.

How old was the machine?

I have given it when it was handed over to the Military Wing in the first instance as 28th June, 1912, but it was completely overhauled on 26th July, 1913. I understand there is some interest in this matter, and it might really be better if we dealt with the whole question on an early opportunity, when it can be raised in Debate and properly explained.

When will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to give a full report to the House?

I am most anxious to make a statement on the subject on the first possible day. I understand such an occasion will arise on the Report of the Army Votes. In fact, I have had notice from the hon. Member (Mr. Joynson-Hicks) that he wishes to raise the question. I am anxious to have an opportunity of making a full statement on the subject.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the reason why officers of the Royal Horse Artillery, Royal Garrison Artillery, RoyaL Engineers, Foot Guards and Army Service Corps on joining the Staff College forfeit the whole of the additional pay drawn by other officers of those arms of the Service; and whether, seeing that it is not in the interests of the Service that those who are specially selected to undergo a two years' course of study in the higher branches of their profession, so as to be fitted for the higher staff appointments and commands, should at the same time suffer a substantial loss of income, he will take steps forthwith to alter this practice?

This additional pay has from the beginning been granted on condition that officers are doing the regimental duties for which it is granted. I take note of the hon. Gentleman's suggestion, but I cannot promise to alter the practice forthwith.

Does not this practice put a discount upon special ability and self improvement?

I would rather say the pay was given for doing duty, and when the duty was not being performed pay was not given.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that an order has been posted in the Army Ordnance Department at Weedon to the effect that no temporary labour will be required after 31st March; is he aware that thirty men will be unemployed by this order, many of whom have removed their homes to Weedon under the impression that, as in the past, there would always be a percentage of temporary men attached to the establishment; is he aware that there is ample work and prospects of more, and that most of these men are ex-soldiers; and will he reconsider this order with a view to continuing these men in employment?

I am having inquiries made to find out if it is possible to avoid dismissing these men, and I will let the hon. Gentleman know when I have obtained further information.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will obtain from the railway companies mentioned on pages 22 and 23 of the General Annual Report of the British Army the percentages of vacancies filled by ex-soldiers in each company, as is shown in the case of police forces in the same Report; and whether he will ask for separate figures for the Northern Counties (Ireland) branch of the Midland Railway?

The Committee presided over by Sir M. Nathan have applied to the railway companies for a large amount of information and statistics, and although, as I previously stated, the hon. and gallant Member's suggestion will be kept in mind, I do not think it would be reasonable now in addition to ask for further statistics in respect of back periods.

Is there not a large number of figures in the possession of the Committee in which such an important matter as the percentage of ex-service men employed is not included?

I shall be glad to send the hon. Member any figures which he wishes to have if he will let me know, but he will understand that the railway companies of this country are supplying a great mass of information, and it is a little hard on them to ask them to go into back periods in detail.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will ask the Great Southern and Western Railway of Ireland to explain its figures given on page 23 of the General Annual Report of the British Army, by which it would appear that, although the company gave employment to 497 and 639 ex-soldiers during the years ending 30th September, 1911 and 1912, respectively, it had only 318 and 427 ex-soldiers, respectively, in its service on those two dates?

I do not think that inquiry would add anything to what I stated, in reply to the hon. and gallant Member, on the 13th instant.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) the amount of legal costs incurred by the Commissioners of Inland Revenue in respect of Part I. of the Finance (1910–10) Act, 1910, and its amending Acts, up to the 31st December, 1913; and (2) the amount of money obtained by the Commissioners of Inland Revenue for costs and expenses from taxpayers who have been unsuccessful in their appeals against the Commissioners under Part I. of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910?

The total legal costs incurred by the Commissioners of Inland Revenue up to the date named amount to £10,739 7s. 5d., and the costs and expenses received by them in connection with appeals under Part I. of the Act amount to £1,360 4s. 1d.

asked whether the Secretary of State has noticed the acquittal in the High Court of Calcutta of the student Roy who was charged with the murder of Inspector Ghose; and whether the Government of India has under consideration the desirability of introducing some changes into the law relating to juries in British India?

The accused has been acquitted on the charges of the murders of Inspector Ghose and of a person in the crowd; but the jury were divided on the charges of abetting the murder of the Inspector and of committing culpable homicide not amounting to murder in the case of the other person, and on the latter counts the judge directed a new trial to take place. The question of altering the law does not seem to arise.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the provisions of the German national insurance scheme as they apply to domestic servants have already broken down; that the Prussian Government is about to insure such servants as a separate class on a basis which regards the real risk of illness and so reduces the cost of insurance, and acknowledges that the rates applicable to other employés do not apply to them as they do not live out and find themselves; and what steps the Government propose to take in the same direction, in view of the effect upon employers and employés of the provisions in this behalf of the National Insurance Act?

The National Insurance Acts provide fully for securing a choice between additional benefits and a reduction of contributions to members of approved societies which show a surplus on valuation through the superior health of their members or for any other cause.

Is it not the case as stated that the present scheme is unfair to domestic servants, and is not the German experience very much in point?

I do not think it is true to say that the present scheme is unfair to domestic servants.

asked (1) whether the amount of the Government actuaries' estimate of the sum to be expended in sickness benefit by approved societies is in respect of women 2s. 2d. per quarter and in respect of men 3s. 3d. per quarter; and whether there is any margin beyond these amounts in the contributions; and (2) what is the Government actuaries' estimate of the cost of maternity benefit per annum per 100 male members and per 100 female members of approved societies; and whether, in addition to such estimate, there is any margin?

The figures referred to in the first question represent an approximate estimate of the cost of sickness benefit and maternity benefit and include the provision for additional cost represented by the margin in the original actuarial calculations. It should be understood that these are general average rates in arriving at which any abnormalities of age distribution and marriage status are disregarded, as also is the variation of claims with reference to the particular time of the year.

Does the hon. Gentleman say that there is no actual margin beyond that?

I said it included provision for additional cost.

asked what are the names of the insurance committees in Lancashire which expect a deficiency in the drug fund, and which met at Blackburn on the 6th instant in order to consider the question of the payment of the panel chemists' accounts and to make representations to the Insurance Commissioners; and whether the representations they have made can be laid before the House?

My right hon. Friend understands that the conference decided that it would be premature to make any representations to the Commissioners on the subject of deficiencies until the provisions of the Regulations with regard to scrutiny and surcharging had been put into operation and it had been ascertained whether there was in fact any deficiency. No representations have been received by the Commissioners from the conference.

Can the hon. Gentleman say when it will be decided whether there is a deficiency or not?

The answer to that question will depend when the account between the committee and the chemists is made up.

When will that be?

I cannot say. That is a matter for the committee.

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East, as representing the Insurance Commissioners, whether, in view of the fact that the regulations dealing with the reduction of benefits to insured persons through arrears were approved by the advisory committee so long ago as 20th January, and that particulars of the scheme have been discussed at public meetings and in the Press, this House may now be informed of the details of the matter?

Regulations made under Section 8 of the National Insurance Act, 1913, will be laid before the House in a few days.

asked whether a Grant from public funds has been promised to certain insurance committees in order to meet their expenditure in connection with the recent issue of medical cards; and, if so, when particulars of the Grant will be laid before the House?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The second part does not therefore arise.

asked whether any insurance committees, in order to provide residential institutional treatment for the insured persons resident within their own areas, have contracted with persons or local authorities in other areas for the provision of such treatment; and, if so, how many committees have done this?

I am much afraid I can add nothing to the reply which I gave to a similar question by the hon. Member yesterday.

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the-East whether his attention has been called to the hardship involved in unemployed workmen in rural districts, residing several miles from the local office, being required to sign the register three times a week if the distance be from three and under five miles, twice a week if over five miles and under eight miles, and once a week if the distance be over eight miles; and whether, considering that in many cases these requirements involve railway travelling necessitating an expenditure of as much or more than 2s. a week, he will call the attention of the Commissioners to the desirability of arranging for the registers being signed at local post offices, or for some other arrangements being made which shall obviate the hardship referred to?

My hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. The rules with regard to signature of the unemployed register in proof of unemployment under Part II. of the National Insurance Act are not quite accurately stated in the question. A workman residing between three and five miles from the nearest local office of the unemployment fund is required to sign on alternate days; and a workman residing between five and eight miles from the nearest local office is required to sign once a week only. In the case of men residing at a distance of more than eight miles no signature is required, and a certificate of unemployment is accepted in lieu of signature. These rules were framed after careful consideration of the rules of the principal trade unions in the insured trades, to which they conform substantially. If, however, my hon. Friend will give me particulars as to any cases in which they appear to him to cause hardship I will consider whether any modification is necessary.

asked what steps the Insurance Commissioners propose to take to provide medical attendance by panel doctors in country places which are at present without resident medical practitioners and to which doctors from a distance object to come?

The arrangements for medical benefit provide that the doctors on the panel for any area are collectively responsible for the medical attendance of all insured persons in that area. If my hon. Friend has in mind the circumstances of any particular district, I shall be glad to make inquiries.

asked the Secretary for Scotland what steps the Local Government Board are taking to meet the need for medical service on St. Kilda?

I am informed that the Highlands and Islands (Medical Service) Board have decided to send a fully qualified nurse to St. Kilda as a temporary and experimental measure. The nurse has now been engaged, and she will be sent to the island as soon as arrangements can be made for her to reside there.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that nineteen landless cottars from the neighbourhood of Reaf, in the parish of Uig, in the island of Lewis, are having proceedings for interdict taken against them for having seized part of the farm of Reaf; whether it is the fact that these men have repeatedly petitioned the proprietor, the Congested District Board, and the Board of Agriculture for land without effect; whether the proprietor is willing to treat with the Government for the sale of the farm outright; and whether, in those circumstances, something can be done to avoid the law being put in force against these men?

The answers to the first and second parts of the question are in the affirmative. The rental of the farm of Reaf is below that limit which would enable the Board to take it compulsorily for small holdings. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether these men have been asking the Board of Agriculture to pay attention to that farm, and whether, in view of the fact that they are law-abiding citizens, he will see that particular attention is paid to the farm?

I may say that we have no right to do so. The Statute bars us from doing so.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether he received any communication regarding these particular circumstances a month ago, and if so, whether any reply was then made?

I really do not understand the question.

May I ask the hon. Gentleman (Mr. Hogge) why he has not taken any steps whatever to provide for this case in the Bill he has introduced?

On account of the unsatisfactory answer, I beg to give notice that I will raise this subject on the Adjournment to-night.

asked whether applications have been received for holdings on the farm of Ardeoil, in the parish of Uig, island of Lewis; what steps, if any, have been taken to inspect the farm; and whether it is the immediate intention of the Board of Agriculture to fulfil the promises they have made to the applicants?

The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Th farm was inspected and negotiations are in progress with the proprietor with a view to arranging for its subdivision.

asked what proportion of the Fishery Board have practical experience of sea fisheries; whether demands are being made by fishermen for the appointment of a greater number of practical men; and what steps it is proposed to take in the matter?

I am not very clear as to the meaning which my hon. Friend attaches to the words "practical experience of sea fisheries," but a majority of the members of the Fishery Board are closely acquainted with the working conditions of the fisheries. A resolution urging the appointment to the Board of a practical fisherman, when an opportunity occurred, was sent to me about a year ago, and will fall to be considered when the period for the reconstitution of the Board arrives.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether an ironmonger is still looking after the fisheries of Scotland?

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he proposes to introduce for Scotland a measure similar to the County and Borough Councils (Qualification) (No. 2) Bill, introduced by the President of the Local Government Board?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave last Thursday to a question on the same subject by the hon. Member for East Edinburgh?

Will the Bill be introduced early so that it will have a chance of passing this Session?

So far as I know, it is a non-controversial question.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether all the appointments under the Mental Deficiency (Scotland) Act have now been made; whether any woman besides Dr. Kate Fraser has received a salaried appointment; and whether Dr. Kate Fraser's salary is fixed at the same figure as the salary or salaries paid to men for the same kind of duties under the Act?

On the assumption that my hon. Friend does not refer to clerical appointments, the answer to his question is as follows: All the appointments which it is in contemplation to make for the time being have now been filled. There have been only three new appointments, and Dr. Kate Fraser is the only woman, being one of the two new Deputy-Commissioners. Dr. Fraser's initial salary will be the same as that of the other Deputy-Commissioners, who will, however, ultimately attain a higher maximum.

asked whether, and when, applications have been received from suitable applicants for holdings on the farm of Inverlaul, Lochbroom, Rossshire; and what steps, if any, the Board of Agriculture have taken to satisfy the applicants?

Suitable applications were received in 1912–13. The farm has been inspected and a scheme for its sub-division is under consideration.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that Thomas Watson, of Milngavie, Stirlingshire, an industrious working man, was sentenced to a fine of £5 5s., or sixty days' imprisonment, for sending his children to school in a verminous condition; that he is now in prison because unable to pay the fine; and that the impossibility of a working man finding so large a sum as £5 5s. in practice makes such a sentence equivalent to imprisonment without the option of a fine; and whether he will take steps to mitigate this sentence?

I am informed that the penalty referred to by my hon. Friend was imposed on Watson in the Sheriff Court, Dumbartonshire, on the 3rd instant, on his being convicted of neglect of his children, such neglect having occurred while he was on probation in respect of a similar offence. The maximum penalty for the offence in question is a fine not exceeding £25, or, alternatively, or in default of payment of such fine, or in addition thereto imprisonment for any term not exceeding six months, and in the circumstances I see no sufficient reason for interference with the sentence.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this man was given an opportunity of paying by instalments, and is it not the case that the Secretary for Scotland has recommended magistrates in such cases to give prisoners an opportunity of paying in that way?

I cannot answer that question. I would point out that the man was on probation, having committed a similar offence.

Is some other person looking after the children while the man is away, and if not, what is happening to them now?

asked (1) if the Irish Parliament in Dublin will be able to differentiate as to the rate of either Death Duties or Income Tax in regard to property in the included portion which may belong to residents in the excluded portion of Ireland; and (2) if, in the event of the exclusion of certain Ulster counties from the Government of Ireland Bill, the excluded counties will be free to appoint, with the sanction of the Imperial Parliament, their own magistrates and judiciary?

In reply to these questions, I can add nothing to what my right hon. Friend stated yesterday.

asked the Prime Minister when he intends to take the Second Reading of the Merchant Shipping Bill; and when the Merchant Shipping Bill, making provision for carrying an adequate number of officers and engineers on Home-trade and foreign-going ships, which was promised by the President of the Board of Trade on the 16th July last, will be introduced?

My right hon. Friend can make no statement as regards the first part of the question. As regards the second, he hopes that a Bill will be introduced this Session.

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to a Message from the Lords to this House, received on the 24th February, to the effect that they desire the concurrence of this House to a Resolution that a contribution to party funds should not be a consideration to a Minister when he recommends any name for an honour to His Majesty; and that it is desirable that effectual measures should be taken in order to assure the nation that Governments, from whatever political party they are drawn, will act according to this rule; and whether the Government intend to make any proposal to this House on the subject?

The attention of the Government has been called to this Resolution, and, as was explained in another place by the Lord Privy Seal, they are in agreement with its purport. But they are not prepared to make any proposal to the House on the subject.

May I ask whether the Government would be prepared to publish a list of subscribers to the party funds?

Perhaps the the hon. Gentleman had better address that question to his own side.

asked the Prime Minister if the repudiation by the First Sea Lord of the Admiralty of the warning given by him some time ago, as to the danger of relying on the Fleet for the protection of the country from invasion, was communicated to him as the result of correspondence or conversation between either himself or the First Lord of the Admiralty and the First Sea Lord, or if it was made without any such communications passing; if the withdrawal of the warning was unqualified in its terms; and, if not, if he will state the circumstances and terms of the withdrawal?

Sir, the substance of the communication made to the Prime Minister by the First Sea Lord upon his own initiative was given to the House in my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Wisbech on the 4th instant.

May I ask whether anyone instructed the First Sea Lord to say that he did not mean what he did say?

That is a very discourteous and unworthy question coming from any quarter of the House, and would deserve strong reprobation. I am content merely to draw the attention of the House to it.

May I repeat the question to the right hon. Gentleman?

I should like the hon. Member to put the question down on the Paper and let me edit it.

asked the Prime Minister whether he can make any statement as to the inquiry which has been undertaken regarding the possibility of arranging the times and seasons when Government contracts are given out with a view to minimising the fluctuations of employment?

My right hon. Friend hopes to be able to make an announcement shortly.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will say what is the total area over which Messrs. Lever Brothers and their associated firms have been granted concessions up to the present time in Nigeria, the Gold Coast, and Sierra Leone, respectively; and whether any further applications are at present under consideration?

The only area over which concessions have actually been granted to Messrs. Lever, or any firm known to be associated with them, is one of, approximately, 311 square miles in Sierra Leone, particulars of which have already been given to Parliament in Command Paper 6561. I have telegraphed inquiring as to tins progress made with the applications of Messrs. Lever and Messrs. McIver for similar concessions in the Gold Coast. I am not aware that any negotiations for concessions in Nigeria are now pending.

Am I to understand that applications in reference to Nigeria and the Gold Coast have been refused by the Government?

As I said, I have telegraphed for information as to the progress made with the applications for concessions on the Gold Coast, and I am not aware of any negotiations now proceeding in Nigeria.

asked the hon. Member for St. George's-in-the East, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he will state whether he has had an electrical instrument erected on one of the back bench pillars in the Chamber on the Government side; is this instrument operating during the sittings of the House; and will he say what is its nature and anticipated effect?

The instrument to which the hon. Member refers has been placed there in connection with experiments on the ventilation of the Chamber. It is in operation during sittings of the House, but its action has no effect on Members in any part of the House.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the increase in the importation of parts of small arms, in 1910 1,140 cwts., 1912 12,330 cwts.; whether he can say what number of barrels for sporting guns would be represented by these figures; arid whether he will take steps to see that in future barrels imported in the tube state are kept separate in the returns from barrels in a more advanced state of manufacture, or fitted to actions, and that the number as well as the weight and value of these parts of small arms should be recorded in future?

The figures quoted by the hon. Member represent the imports from Germany only; the imports from all sources amounted to 13,300 cwts. in 1910, and 30,200 cwts. in 1912. These figures include imports of barrels, no separate records of these being available. The question of the separate collection of statistics of the imports of barrels in the tube state and of barrels in a more advanced stage of manufacture will be referred to the Interdepartmental Committee, which meets every autumn to consider proposals for alterations in the official Trade Returns. An attempt was made in 1908 to secure some part of the information desired by raising a new heading for "Tubes to be made into barrels of firearms" in the official import list, but this step has failed to effect its object, as the entries under this heading have been practically nil. If the hon. Member can furnish me with any suggestion as to a suitable heading, I will see that it is carefully considered.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that the Gun-barrel Proof Act of 1868 is applicable only to England and Wales; and whether he proposes to introduce legislation to extend its provisions to Scotland and Ireland, so that it may be universally applicable in the United Kingdom?

I am aware that the Act in question (except in regard to certain special provisions) only extends to England and Wales. I see no objection in principle to the extension of its provisions to Scotland and Ireland, but I am not in a position to promise the introduction of a Government measure for effecting this object during the present Session.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the present powers of carriers by sea, by means of conditions on bills of lading or other documents, to contract themselves out of all liability for damage, destruction, or loss of goods carried by them, however such damage, destruction, or loss may have arisen; and whether he contemplates introducing any legislation to limit such powers, similar to the legislation already in force in the Commonwealth of Australia and the United States of America?

This is a very difficult and complicated question, on which there is a good deal to be said on both sides. As at present advised, I do not propose to introduce legislation to deal with it.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to a resolution unanimously passed at the annual meeting of the Associated Chambers, held in London on the 11th instant, calling upon His Majesty's Government to take action in the direction of giving effect to the principle adopted at the Washington Conference of the International Association for the protection of industrial property, namely, the protection of marks of communities, known as collective marks; and what action His Majesty's Government propose to take in the matter?

I have seen a copy of the resolution. The principle referred to therein is already adopted in the United Kingdom, and is dealt with by Section 62 of the Trade Marks Act, 1905, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give the value of the produce and manufactures of the United Kingdom consigned to the United States, France, Germany, Holland; and Belgium, respectively, in 1913; the percentage of wholly or mainly manufactured goods in each case; and the same information as regards goods exported to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa in the year 1913?

I will have particulars of the value of the exports of the produce and manufactures of the United Kingdom to each of the destinations specified printed in the Votes, but separate particulars of the exports of manufactured goods thereto will not be available until early in May.—[ See, Written Answers this day. ]

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether before the 1st of April, the date fixed for the coming into operation of the Poor Law Institution Order, by a supplementary Order, or otherwise, he will provide that the number of inmates to be admitted in each workhouse and ward shall be fixed by such Order and limited; and will he make an amending Order, securing that the number shall be fixed in institutional wards, provided hereafter, and also forbidding guardians to admit into the institution or any ward of the same, or retain therein a larger number of inmates than that fixed by the Local Government Board?

No such general limitation of the numbers of inmates has hitherto been fixed by the Local Government Board, and I do not think there is any immediate necessity for fixing a limit in all cases. If, however, in any particular case it is desirable, either to secure proper classification of inmates or to prevent overcrowding, that such limitation should be imposed, the new Order reserves to the Board ample powers which in such an event they will certainly use. No amending Order appears to be needed.

Have the Local Government Board jurisdiction in reference to the number of inmates?

They can, if they wish, make an Order limiting the number of inmates in a particular institution or part of an institution.

asked how many local authorities have intimated to the Board that they were prepared to treat tuberculous persons who are other than insured persons or dependents under the Grant promised by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in a letter to Mr. Hobhouse dated 31st July, 1912; and the names of these authorities?

One hundred and fifteen councils have submitted to the Local Government Board schemes for providing treatment for persons suffering from tuberculosis. In every case the scheme either expressly provides for the treatment of non-insured persons, as well as insured, or makes no distinction between insured and non-insured persons. I will send the hon. Member a list of these councils.

Is the County of London included?

Negotiations are now proceeding on that matter, and I should be glad if the hon. Member would give me notice.

asked how many sanitary authorities in England and Wales have taken samples of milk offered for sale to the public for the purpose of analysing during 1913 or any convenient period; and how many authorities have not done so?

In the year 1912, which is the latest year for which complete information is at present available, samples of milk were taken for analysis by every local authority under the Sale of Food and Drugs Acts. The number of samples of milk and cream taken during the year was 52,501. Detailed particulars are given in the Annual Report of the Local Government Board for 1912–13.

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he has received a Return, compiled by the National Association of Poor Law Officers, showing that largely the indoor subordinate staff of Poor Law union institutions are on duty from 75 to 80 hours per week of seven days; if so, whether any consideration has been given to the matter; and whether he proposes taking any action?

The Local Government Board have not received a copy of the Return referred to. If in any particular case it is shown that officers of a board of guardians are overworked, the Department would not fail to communicate with the guardians on the subject.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury if he will state what are the Grants from the Treasury for secondary education in England, Scotland, and Wales, respectively; what is the cost of administration and inspection in each country and by whom is it borne; and what is the Treasury Grant to Ireland for secondary education?

I regret that I am unable to supply the hon. Member with the comparative figures for which he asks as to Grants for secondary education and cost of administration and inspection.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury if it is the intention of the authorities to move some of the most priceless of our national collections from the upper floor of the old buildings of the British Museum to the ground floor gallery of the new building; if he is aware that the lower windows of the ground floor gallery of the British Museum are virtually unprotected from without; and whether any precautions and what are to be taken to prevent their being broken by stones or other missiles?

It is proposed to move some of the collections in the Museum from the upper floor of the old building to a gallery in the new building, of which the floor is twelve feet above the street level. The front of the building will be protected by police.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware that occasions have arisen within recent times when it has been found expedient to shut the great iron gates of the courtyard of the British Museum in order to safeguard its treasure from mob violence; if he is aware that this precaution had to be taken, with the concurrence of the police, only a few years ago; and if he will say whether similar precautions can be taken to protect the windows of the main front of the new buildings, as well as the contents of the cases in close proximity to these windows?

The only occasion within recent times on which the gates were closed was on 15th October, 1908, when admission was refused to a procession of unemployed workmen. Similar precautions cannot be taken at the back of the building, since the museum is not there separated by a wide courtyard from the street.

asked who authorised the installation of heavy machinery immediately underneath one of the principal exhibition galleries of the British Museum; who approved that such work should be carried out in this particular place; and what steps are being taken to remedy the error which has been made?

No heavy machinery has been installed immediately under any of the Exhibition galleries.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that great damage has been done to unique and valuable objects of mosaic jewellery work?

The question on the Paper referred to heavy machinery. I made inquiries about that and find that the state of affairs suggested in the question did not exist. If the hon. Member will put down a further question I will make inquiries.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury if his attention has been called to the defective planning and waste of exhibition space in the galleries of the new buildings of the British Museum; and if he will ascertain how many square feet of the superficial area of these galleries is rendered unavailable for exhibition purposes by iron radiators and by the screening, such as the recently added false backing to the print cases in the upper gallery and by the thirty-six square plaster columns in the lower gallery?

As I have already stated in answer to questions on this subject, the architect who designed and planned the extension to the British Museum was selected by His Majesty's Government in 1904 from a panel of some of the most eminent architects of the day. The First Commissioner cannot admit that the planning is defective. The plans have throughout been submitted to and approved by the trustees of the British Museum.