asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether leave is being given to German men under seventeen or over fifty-five years of age and to Austro-Hungarian men under eighteen or over fifty years of age to return to Germany and Austria-Hungary, respectively, from this country; whether he will state at what date the above standards of ago are calculated; and whether there is evidence that German and Austro-Hungarian men both below and above the standards of age specified are being employed at the present time in fighting against this country or our Allies?

Under agreements with Germany and Austria-Hungary, German and Austro-Hungarian men have, within the age limits specified in the question, and subject to certain exceptions, been allowed to return to Germany and Austria-Hungary respectively. The standards of age have been calculated, in the case of German subjects, from 28th October, the date on which the agreement with Germany was concluded, and, in the case of Austro-Hungarian subjects, from 4th October, when the agreement with Austria-Hungary was concluded. His Majesty's Government have no evidence in support of the suggestion made in the last part of the question.

Before repatriation, is any condition asked for or undertaking given by the men or their Government that they shall not be employed against this country or our Allies?

I understand that no conditions are asked for, or undertaking given, on either side.

asked (1) the President of the Board of Trade whether the option held by British Dyers, Limited, on the works of Messrs. Reid, Holliday, and Company contemplates the continuance of the manufacture of synthetic drugs by the new company; and, if not, what, if any, provision is being made by the Government to secure from other sources a sufficient supply of such drugs; (2) whether the option held by British Dyers, Limited, on the works of Messrs. Reid, Holliday, and Company would enable the present proprietors to resume business on their own account; and whether, especially, these proprietors would be able to act as agents or be interested in any agency for the sale, after the War, of German dyes in which they possess an unique experience; (3) whether the general public will be allowed to invest in the Government dye scheme; and whether, seeing that they are unable to give any orders for dyes, a special class of stock will be issued for such investors; and (4); whether, in view of the fact that there are many small firms in the country who use aniline dyes previously imported from Germany who have no free capital for investment in the Government dye scheme, it is intended that provision should be made for participation by such firms in the scheme if they are prepared to make a contract to obtain all the dyes they need which can be supplied from the new company?

The option relates to the terms on which the business of Messrs. Reid, Holliday and Sons can be acquired if the new company think fit to do so, and it makes no reference to the products to be manufactured by the new company. I am advised that no provision such as that suggested by the hon. Member to secure the supply of synthetic drugs is necessary. The option includes the right to retain the services of the present chairman and managing director of the company or cither of them at the discretion of the new company. I understand that the new company invites applications for shares from users of dyes and colours and from others willing to assist in providing a supply thereof. In the case of the latter class of subscribers the question of taking dyes from the company does not arise and no special class of stock is contemplated. I am informed that no hard and fast rule is contemplated by the directors of the new company with regard to the scale of subscription which will entitle a participant to a supply of dyes. Cases in which firms dependent on a supply of dyes are bonâ fide unable to subscribe more than a limited amount of capital will, I am assured, be sympathetically dealt with on their merits.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he can inform the House if any proposals have been made on behalf of the Indian Government for the participation of Indian dye-users in the Government dye scheme; and, if so, will he give particulars?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether dyes imported to this country from Germany will be paid for in gold; and, if not, what kind of goods will be allowed to be exported from this country to Germany in payment for such dyes?

No exchange of commodities is allowed, and direct payment is, of course, impossible. Otherwise holders of licences make their own arrangements as to mode of payment.

Is a neutral country in the same position as this, or are we stopping dyes going to neutral countries?

So far as I know we are not stopping dyes going to neutral countries. I am not aware of any in transit.

asked (1) the President of the Board of Trade how German dyes and other enemy commodities for which licences are being granted are to be imported into the United Kingdom; in particular, whether these commodities are being obtained from stocks in neutral countries or from cargoes on enemy ships interned in British ports; (2) what is the earliest date on which it is expected that the new dye scheme will be in effective operation; and whether he can give any estimate of the proportion of the total British consumption which that scheme will provide at the end of twelve months from the present date; and (3) in respect of what commodities of enemy origin or manufacture licences to import into the United Kingdom have already been issued?

I do not think it is to the public interest to give the details asked for with respect to enemy goods imported under licence. To give details would furnish the enemy with precise in- formation as to the German products of which we stand in most urgent need and lead him to take measures to frustrate our efforts. For the same reason it is inexpedient to make any statement as to the sources from which and the charnels through which goods are obtained under licence. I may, however, say generally that these licences are only given in very exceptional circumstances to meet urgent British needs which cannot otherwise be satisfied. The Board of Trade are fully alive to the desirability of restricting the grant scope and duration of such licences as far as practicable. I regret I am not in a position to estimate the rate of progress likely to be made by the new company in supplying the needs of dye-users, but I think I can assure the hon. Member that there will be no avoidable delay in meeting this urgent problem.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he himself mentioned aniline dyes and explosives, two very important matters?

I used the word "explosives" as an illustration. If the hon. Gentleman wishes to have further particulars of the items, I shall be glad to let him see them privately, but I am sure he will see that it is objectionable to name them publicly.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the Royal Society is both willing and anxious to undertake the organisation of the experts and students in chemical research now available in the universities, the university colleges, and technical schools throughout the United Kingdom, with a view to providing the technical assistance necessary for the success of any national dye scheme; and whether he will consider the advisability of availing himself of the services of that body for that purpose?

I have just received a copy of a memorial forwarded on 4th March to the Prime Minister by the President of the Royal Society which is doubtless that to which the hon. Member alludes. The subject referred to in the Memorial will receive my careful consideration in consultation with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Education.

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask the Royal Society to simply report as to the educational substratum of this trade in Germany, that is to say, the whole technical education of Germany, which has contributed to their seizing the practical monopoly of this trade?

I scarcely think that arises out of the question. I think we are all glad to receive the opinion of the Royal Society on the subject.

asked whether the Government of India proposes to participate in the Government aniline dye scheme; and what steps, if any, are being taken to supply India with dyes other than such as are the natural products of the country and available in sufficient quantities for commercial purposes?

The Government of India are not participating in the aniline dye scheme, and their action has consisted in bringing the scheme to the notice of Indian manufacturers and traders. In this connection I would refer to the answer given by me to the hon. Member for the Everton Division of Liverpool on Thursday last.

Has the Secretary of State made any proposition at all to the Dye Committee?

No, Sir. I think the opinion of the Government of India has been obtained, but that no proposition has been made by the Secretary of State.

Are spinners at present getting dyes for their wool other than indigo?

I think some dyes have been exported under licence, with proper permission already obtained.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that congestion in the port of Liverpool has greatly increased, and that on 27th February not less than fifty steamers were waiting for berths in the Liverpool docks; whether he can state the cause of the increased congestion; whether he is aware that many steamers, after completing the loading of their outward cargoes, have been prevented from sailing for several days owing to their inability to load bunker coal and are still being delayed; whether this state of affairs is due to the refusal of men to work notwithstanding they have been granted an increase of wages equal to 6s. per week; whether he is aware that steamers in Government employment and wanted for military purposes have been detained in Liverpool through their inability to obtain coal and have consequently been diverted to other ports for this purpose, thereby causing disorganisation and delay; and whether the Government propose to take measures to remedy this state of affairs and prevent its recurrence.

I am informed by the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board that there has recently been some increase of congestion in the port of Liverpool, and some delay in the shipping of bunker coal, and that this was due partly to a difficulty as regards the terms of employment of the coal heavers, which I am glad to say has now been overcome owing in large measure to the patriotic appeals of my hon. Friend the Member for the Scotland Division of Liverpool and the Trades Union leaders, and that the men returned to work on Friday last. I trust, therefore, that occasion will not arise for exceptional measures by the Government.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that several large steamers owned by the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company, which prior to the War were employed in the South American trade, have for a considerable time past been laid up in the port of Liverpool and elsewhere, notwithstanding the need for steamers to carry food-stuffs to this country and the rate of freights obtainable from the Argentine; and whether he can state why these steamers are not employed?

I am informed by the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company that two of their vessels, which are probably the ships referred to in the question, are unemployed at present, owing to the fact that they were designed largely for the carriage of passengers, and in view of the almost entire cessation of the passenger traffic to and from South America, it would not be possible at the current rate of freight for meat to employ them in this trade without serious loss.

asked the President of the Board of Trade under what conditions of compensation pilots are placed who, in the performance of their duties, are either killed or injured by mines, torpedoes, or other hostile operations during the War; and he is aware that in several cases up to the present time pilots have been on board of ships that have been either mined or torpedoed?

Compensation in accordance with the scale laid down for officers and men on Fleet auxiliaries would be payable in respect of British pilots on British merchant ships who are killed or injured by mines, torpedoes, or other hostile operations during the War.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman know that the pilots have to go on board neutral ships as well as British ships, and, in the event of such neutral ships being mined or torpedoed and injury thus caused to the pilot, may I ask whether any compensation would be given?

I will consider that point sympathetically There are difficulties about those on board neutral vessels, but if neutral vessels are performing services to us we ought obviously to treat those who pilot them as we treat those on our own vessels.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that pilots are placed in a very peculiar position, as they have to give their services to every ship that comes along?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the Dockers' Union has submitted proposals to the London shipowners for an increase of 2d. per hour in their wages to meet the increased cost of living, and that the shipowners refuse to meet the men's representatives; whether he is aware that the Government Committee recently appointed to obviate disputes during war time has also been approached in this matter, and has replied that it is outside their terms of reference and should be submitted to the Board of Trade; and whether, seeing that the men's union is willing to have arbitration on the questions at issue, thus responding to the Prime Minister's appeal, what steps it is proposed shall be taken to bring the parties involved together with the view of an amicable settlement, or to what tribunal, if any, can the matter be referred?

I am still in communication with the parties concerned, but am not yet in a position to make any statement.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that neither employers nor workmen are represented on the present Arbitration Committee, he will consider the advisability of availing himself of the services of the Industrial Council in cases where disputes arise between workmen and employers during the War?

The members of the Industrial Council were included in the panels of the Court of Arbitration, and are eligible for appointment to Courts when the parties to industrial disputes desire to refer their differences to that form of arbitration. Two members of the Industrial Council—Mr. T. L. Devitt and my right hon. Friend the Member for the Barnard Castle Division—are to-day sitting as members of an important Court of Arbitration in Scotland.

asked if the States of Guernsey have now terminated the lease of the Island of Herm granted to the West Bank Leignitz, Limited; if this German company has terminated the underlease to Prince Blücher von Wahlstatt; and, if so, who is now in occupation of the island?

The lease has not yet been terminated. Legal questions of much difficulty are involved, and the rights of British subjects who hold charges on the property would be affected. As I stated in reply to a question last Monday, the island is now in the occupation of the military authorities.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware that the Admiralty have a meat contract with Messrs. Lyons and Company, Limited, to supply meat to the Navy men who are stationed at the Crystal Palace; if he is aware that the War Office have cancelled their meat contract with the above firm who were supplying meat to the Territorials stationed at the White City in consequence of the firm supplying the troops with putrid meat; and if he intends taking any action in the matter?

The first part of the question was dealt with in the reply given to my hon. Friend's previous question on the 1st March. As regards the second part of the question, it is understood that the contract held by Messrs. Lyons for catering for the troops at the White City was with the Territorial Association, and that it was not cancelled, but expired by effluxion of time on the 1st December. The condemnation of a certain quantity of meat referred to in the question took place some time before that date. It is understood that at the request of the military authorities, who took over the victualling of those troops on the 1st January, Messrs. Lyons continued the catering for a short time longer. All food supplied at the Crystal Palace is carefully inspected, and, as already stated, the catering there has been carried out quite satisfactorily. Consideration is now being given, however, to the question whether the result of the recent proceedings against Messrs. Lyons in respect of the White City contract renders any action necessary in regard to their Crystal Palace contract.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether Messrs. Lyons and Company are contractors to supply meat to the troops in camp at Trensham; and, if so, whether the War Office will consider the advisability of striking them off the meat contract list in consequence of their being deprived of the meat contract for the Territorials at the White City through supplying them with putrid meat?

Messrs. Lyons held the contract for cater- ing (including the supply of meat) at Trensham camp until the 17th November last. Since that date there have been no troops encamped there. It is a matter for serious consideration whether any further contracts should be placed with this firm.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in the case of those officers on the permanent list of the Royal Naval Reserve who prior to the War had seen no naval service, their present time in active service will count as qualifying for the annual retainer?

The answer is in the affirmative.

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty (1) if he is aware that several of the owners of steam trawlers whose vessels have been requisitioned for mine sweeping have refused to sign their charters, as the hiring amounts offered are insufficient to adequately recompense them for the loss of their services and the owners have never received payment for their hire nor anything for the stores; whether he will cause inquiry to be made into this state of affairs; and (2) whether he is aware that the owners of the fishing vessels at the various ports have readily placed their vessels at the disposal of the Admiralty for mine sweeping and other purposes, and that the terms for hiring the trawlers have not in all cases been satisfactory to the owners; will he state how, if the vessels are lost, the amount to be paid is calculated; if, upon the return of the vessels to their owners in a damaged condition, the Admiralty will pay the costs of the necessary repairs to enable them to be used for their original purpose of fishing; and will the authorities promptly settle the agreed amounts for such repairs and renewals?

As regards rates of hire, in all cases in which claims have been rendered payment has been made at the Admiralty rates of hire. I understand that there have been cases where owners would not render claims on this basis fearing they might thereby prejudice their application for reconsideration. They have been asked to forward claims upon which payment would be made to them without prejudice to any representations which they might hereafter wish to make. As regards payment for stores, these have in point of fact been passed in nearly all cases. As regards vessels lost, the amounts payable have been fixed on the basis of the value of the hull and outfit, and the machinery and boilers, as ascertained by Lloyd's Register of Shipping, with a depreciation on the residual value for each complete year of the vessel's age. The terms of the charter party provide that the vessel, her outfit and machinery shall, at the cost of the Admiralty, be handed back to the owners in the same condition as when they were taken up, ordinary wear and tear alone excepted. I am aware that some objection has been taken to the rate of hire and to the amounts to be paid in the event of loss. Arrangements will be made to give trawler owners an early opportunity of stating their views.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that a pamphlet emanating from a German source in New York, and purporting to give an account of diplomatic action in Belgium, which attributes treacherous action to this country and to our Allies, is being distributed, through the English Post Office, throughout this country; and whether steps will be taken to prevent the dissemination by such agency of literature of such a kind?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I am aware that the German agencies have been making great efforts to introduce into this country pamphlets of the same nature as that referred to in the question. The pamphlets in question probably do little harm in this country, where the true facts are generally known, and my information is that even in neutral countries their effect is now the reverse of what their authors intended. It has not hitherto been considered necessary to establish a censorship on postal matter coming from the United States, and to do so would involve an enormous addition to the censorship staff.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware of the inquiries being made by the Paymaster-General into the time served by Members of this House in the Army and Navy; and whether he can say for what purpose such inquiries are being made?

No such inquiries are being made by the Paymaster-General.

Is anybody making such inquiries?

I think that possibly the officials of this House are inquiring into the military pay of Members, in order to make the necessary deductions from the civil salaries.

Where is there authority by any Statute for any official of this House to concern himself in the matter?

I think there is authority for persons in receipt of civil salaries under the Votes having the amount of their military pay deducted before those salaries are paid.

But where is the authority? These gentlemen—Division clerks, and so on—are appointed to look after Divisions and other matters connected with the journals of the House. Where is their authority for going into this matter?

Does the hon. Gentleman proceed on the ground that as there is no statutory authority to pay these salaries, so no statutory authority is required to interfere with them?

The Treasury does not proceed on any ground. I was answering a question as to what authority there was for dealing with these salaries.

Mr. Speaker, I understand that certain officers of the House are detailed to go into the matter of Members' salaries. I wish to ask whether you, Sir, have any authority, assuming that they are acting under your directions, to pursue this inquisition?

I cannot say on the spur of the moment under what authority I am acting. I will have it looked up; I rather think it was under the authority of a Treasury Minute. I am not quite certain, but as far as my recollection goes there was a Treasury Minute to the effect that in allotting the salaries to Members the amount they are receiving as military pay must be taken into consideration.

Are we bound by the Minute of a Treasury clerk at 30s. a week?

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether, in view of the shortage of labour, particularly in rural districts, and the desirability of only undertaking work of urgent national importance during the War, he will suspend the orders to local authorities to erect buildings for the accommodation of workhouse children?

I am about to issue a circular to local authorities with regard to the desirability of restricting public works in view of the shortage of labour and other circumstances connected with the War.

Will that circular cover the point in my question?

Yes, that and other matters.

asked the Solicitor-General if a cablegram from the Canadian correspondent of a London newspaper, containing an account of Canadian comment on the appointment of a Member of this House to command a brigade including Canadian troops, was stopped by the Press Censor without notifying the proprietor or editor of the newspaper until inquiry was made with regard to it; if he will say for what reason the publication of the message was prohibited; whether it is the usual procedure of the Press Censor to suppress dispatches from newspaper correspondents abroad for which payment has to be made without communicating the fact of their receipt and the reason for their suppression to the addressee; and, if not, why this procedure was followed in the instance in question?

One message on the subject of the appointment referred to in this question to one paper was stopped because its publication would, in my judgment, have been contrary to the national interest. It is not usual to inform an addressee that a message has been stopped or to communicate its contents, but in special cases it has been done. The usual course was followed in this case.

I will refer to the matter on the Motion for Adjournment to-night.

Did not the Solicitor-General inform the House that no messages were stopped?

That is exactly the opposite of what I informed the House. I informed the House that one message was stopped, and just as I have informed the hon. Member now so I informed him two days ago.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any references in the messages of "Eye-Witness" have been stopped?

I know nothing about it.

asked the Prime Minster whether his attention has been called to the statements of the Chancellor of the Exchequer to the effect that Great Britain would not have declared War but for the invasion of Belgium, and that Great Britain has nothing to gain by the War; and, if so, whether these statements accurately express the policy of His Majesty's Government?

I must refer the hon. Member to the speech which I made in this House on 6th August, which explained fully the policy of the Government and the reasons which led up to the War.

Will not the Prime Minister repudiate a statement so different from that to which he has just referred the House, so prejudicial to recruiting, and so unacceptable to our gallant allies?

I have nothing to add to the answer I have given.

asked the Prime Minister if he will consider the advisability of distributing leaflets amongst the men who have ceased work in England and Scotland bringing home to them the danger caused to the country and their fellow countrymen by their divisions and the responsibility which rests upon them by their action; and if he will consider the practicability of special addresses being given on this subject by some leading members of His Majesty's Government?

I will give the hon. Member's suggestion my careful consideration.

asked the Prime Minister if representations will be made to Sir Francis Hopwood and Sir George Gibb that in considering Army contracts, all work, wherever possible, should be given to British firms of British origin, and that firms of German origin should not be employed during the War?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. The policy uniformly followed is to give preference to firms whose capital is entirely British-owned, but not to refuse to deal with firms, part of whose capital is owned by alien enemies, in cases where there is no satisfactory alternative source of supply. In these cases the firm is required to give an undertaking to observe the Proclamations on trading with the enemy, including that relating to the transmission of moneys.

Are we to take it that an alteration has been made, and that German firms or firms with German directors will be struck off the list?

The policy that I have just stated has been followed uniformly since the outbreak of war.

On what ground is the hon. Gentleman giving contracts to any firms of German origin?

I have endeavoured to explain to the hon. Member that preference is given to English firms which have no connection at all with any firms abroad.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that, under the present provisions of the Defence of the Realm Act and Orders in Council, the War Office are able to acquire land and buildings for military purposes and themselves decide whether any and, if so, how much compensation should be paid to the tenant or owner of the premises; and, in view of the undesirability of a Government Department acting in the dual capacity of judge and defendant, he will arrange for a third party, who is in no way interested, to decide what compensation should be paid?

The position is as stated in the first part of the hon. Member's question. As regards the latter part, the matter is at present under consideration.

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware that a pamphlet, published in Bremen under the title of "Facts about Germany and the War," which has been circulated by German agents in neutral countries, largely consists of a reprint of an article written by a Member of this House and published in an English journal, and that the article in question, of which such use is being made by Germany, contains charges against the Prime Minister, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, and the Government generally, and that the publication of the article in question and its distribution in this country in broad sheet form was, and is, calculated to discourage recruiting; whether copies are still being circulated in this country; and what steps the Government have taken, or intend to take, in the matter?

I much regret that a paper containing such grave misrepresentation of the policy of His Majesty's Government should have been published at a time when these misrepresentations could have no effect but to encourage the enemy. I think the hon. Member is inclined to exaggerate the importance of the matter, as the pamphlet does not appear to have had any influence in discouragement of recruiting or otherwise in this country.

asked whether, in view of a probable high percentage of unemployment at the close of the War, preparations will be made to retire all Civil servants of the age of sixty-five in order to make room for as many unemployed men as possible?

Retirement from the Civil Service is obligatory at the age of sixty-five. A very few exceptions are sanctioned, and only on clear grounds of public interest.

asked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the existing deficiency in the number of ships available for the purposes of British commerce, the Government will adopt measures, and if necessary obtain legislative power, to prevent British ships from carrying cargoes of food-stuffs and other materials to any ports in Europe except those of the United Kingdom or the Allied Powers unless by special permits from the Board of Trade, such permits to be issued only in cases where satisfactory guarantees are forthcoming that the goods carried to neutral ports are not destined for and will not reach enemy countries?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I do not think that the adoption of the particular measures suggested in the question would produce a satisfactory result, but the hon. Baronet may rest assured that all practicable steps are taken and will be taken to prevent goods destined for enemy countries being carried in British ships.

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) if he is aware that Irish cattle exporters complain of the cost of war risk insurance; and if he will represent to the Government the necessity for placing the Irish cattle trade upon an equal footing with the trade in frozen and chilled meat by allowing Irish exporters to participate in the benefits of the State-aided scheme of insurance against war risks?

Inquiries are being made into this matter and I will communicate with the hon. Baronet.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that numerous complaints have been made of the quality of the bread and jam served out to the 5th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Division; if he is aware that, in consequence of the bad quality of the bread, the men are buying bread when possible, one battalion alone buying daily 400 loaves; and will he say what action he proposes to take in the matter?

No, Sir. No such complaints have been received. On the contrary, the reports from the front with regard to the food supplies invariably testify as to their excellent quality.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War the average cost of the new hutments, including drainage, furniture, and lighting, etc., as provided for a battalion of Infantry of the New Army or Territorial Force?

I am not yet in a position to give the exact average cost, but it is estimated not to exceed £15,000 for huts (including water supply, drainage, and lighting), and £2,500 for furniture.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War what amount of money has been paid for the use of the White City for Army purposes; and what amount is being paid per week for the same?

The rent paid by the County of London Territorial Force Association during their tenancy of the White City from 19th October, 1914, to 31st December, 1914, was £6,300. For the lease from 1st January, 1915, to 30th April, 1915, the War Department pays £6,000 in addition to £100 weekly for maintenance and cleaning charges.

Is the White City looked upon as satisfactory quarters for these men?

Not entirely satisfactory, but they are the best that can be got.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the services now rendered in connection with recruiting by bandmasters of the Territorial Force, he will permit these bandmasters to hold similar rank, and to draw similar pay, as bandmasters of the Regular Army?

I gladly recognise the services which these bandmasters have rendered, but regret that I do not see my way to change their status as suggested.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that the principal waste of food at our own military camps takes place in bread and jam, which are not only being thrown away and sold, but given away wholesale in the villages; and whether the inquiry he proposes to make into the subject is to be Departmental?

asked what steps are being taken to prevent the waste in military camps of food provided by the taxpayers; whether experienced caterers are engaged whenever possible; and whether more food than is wanted is often given out, instead of such amount as each individual wishes to consume?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to cases of extensive waste and thefts of food in connection with Aldershot camp; and, if so, whether he will give assurance to the House that these cases will be immediately and stringently investigated?

The wastage complained of, in so far as it is avoidable, is due to faulty regimental arrangements caused by lack of experience. Steps have been and are being taken to instruct units how to utilise the ration fully. In any well-fed community it is almost impossible to secure the complete consumption of every particle of food provided. In regard to Aldershot and the cases which the hon. and gallant Member for the Epping Division has mentioned, no reports of extensive waste and thefts of food have been received; but if my hon. Friends can give me information on which they can rely, I will of course have full inquiry made.

Are the recipients of what is called stolen property prosecuted?

That would appear to be a matter for consideration if we had any information of the kind on which we could proceed.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether Messrs. R. Ainsworth and Sons, Cleator Mills, Cleator Gate, Cleator, are contractors for the War Office; whether he is aware that this firm, which makes khaki and other thread used in the manufacture of uniforms, pays adult women workers a wage of 7s. to 8s. a week, with a bonus of 1s. to 2s. for 60 hours' work, and that the women sometimes work as many as eleven and twelve hours a day and suffer from overstrain and exhaustion; and whether, in view of the Fair-Wages Clause, he will cause investigation to be made with a view to a remedy?

The firm in question holds contracts for the War Office. My attention has already been drawn to the labour conditions alleged to prevail at their works, and the matter is now being investigated.

asked the number of horses that were sent to this country from Canada with the first Canadian contingent?

It is not expedient to publish the information asked for by my hon. Friend.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can see his way to extend the furlough of five days to men whose families live in Sutherland and the Northern Highlands of Scotland, as the five days' leave is occupied almost entirely in travelling to and fro?

The rule is that the leave shall be so arranged as to give each man four clear days at home. The application of the rule must be subject in each case to military exigencies, but I am not aware that there has been any general failure to apply it in the case of the men to whom my hon. Friend alludes.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can make arrangements for sergeant-instructors detached from their parent battalions to receive a proper allowance for clothes, as at present, being detached, they get no allowance and are suffering much in consequence; and whether these sergeant-instructors are debarred from promotion, extra pay, or any encouragement for their services to the country?

I am not able to identify the case to which the hon. Member refers. Since mobilisation clothing is issued to all soldiers in kind as required and there is no cash allowance.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether any complaints have been made as to the overcrowding of troops in Ongar; what is the population of Ongar and the maximum number of troops billeted in the town at any one time; whether, when the police have fixed the number of the billet, these numbers have ever been exceeded by the military authorities; whether the limit of 400 cubic feet per man has been observed in every case; and whether, having regard to the strain imposed upon the inhabitants for several months past, the Secretary of State for War can see his way to decrease the number of troops billeted in Ongar and in other neighbouring places?

I am informed that no complaints of overcrowding have been made at Ongar. The number of billets was fixed by the police and no alteration was made. A limit of 300 cubic feet was observed in all cases. Steps have been taken to reduce the number of men billeted at Ongar and I understand that the number at present is only 445 and that there is no overcrowding.

Has spotted fever broken out in Ongar?

Not that I am aware of.

Can the hon. Gentleman say how many cubic feet of German shell and how many cubic feet of German stench have been received by these troops?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War what quantity of rum has been supplied to the troops at the front; what is the total price paid for it; and will he give the names of the firms from whom it has been purchased?

The total quantity sent overseas is 509,079 gallons. The purchases were made through the Government brokers. I will inform my hon. Friend of the cost as soon as it can be calculated.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether any steps are taken before its issue to ascertain from soldiers entitled to the rum ration whether they desire it or not; and whether any and, if so, what alternative is provided for those who do not desire rum?

As I have repeatedly stated, rum is issued only to those who desire it and on recommendation of medical officers. No alternative is provided.

Could not arrangements be made by which the soldiers can be provided with tea and coffee—

Or soda water!

Or any other refreshments of the kind if they require them?

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of issuing rations of cocoa?

Coffee, perhaps.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if canteens are being established in France for the supply of troops; if so, how many and through what contractors; and whether, in view of the expressed opinion of Lord Kitchener against the consumption of intoxicants by soldiers and the physical and moral injury arising therefrom, intoxicating liquors will be excluded from all canteens or, if not, under what restrictions will their sale be permitted?

An organisation has been approved for the supply to the British troops in France of small comforts and articles such as they are used to purchasing in their canteens or regimental institutes. The Canteen and Mess Co-operative Society, Limited, with whom for the purpose Messrs. Dickeson and Company, Limited, are associated, have consented to form this organisation, which is to be called the Expeditionary Force Canteen Co-operative Society. Neither the Canteen and Mess Co-operative Society nor Messrs. Dickeson will take any share of the profits, the whole of which will be devoted to the-good of the soldier and his dependants. The business will be entirely under military control. The only beverage sold which might come under the category of intoxicants is the light French beer, and I am advised that the intoxicating power of this is very slight.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the proper official to whom to send a Report on matters concerning a battalion within the area of the Eastern Command is the General Officer Commanding within that area; whether General Woollcombe was that officer on 30th October, 1914; and, if so, for what reason has the War Office remained in ignorance of the substance of that Report?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I understand that General Woollcombe was General Officer Commanding-in-Chief the Eastern Command on the date mentioned. The Report in question has not yet been submitted to the War Office.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that dishonourable imputations and suggestions of corruption are being made against distinguished officers and also against Members of this House in relation to the Empire battalion of the Royal Fusiliers; and whether he will, without further delay, make himself acquainted with the report presented to General Woollcombe on 30th October, 1914, by the Committee and communicate the substance thereof to the House?

Any imputations which have been made have been in the nature of innuendo and have not been definitely formulated. Until the investigation which is in progress is completed, I cannot announce what action I shall take.

May I ask whether the Tight hon. Gentleman will be in a position to-morrow to discuss the whole matter upon the Third Reading of the Consolidated Fund Bill? I desire to take this discussion before the Adjournment.

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean to say my imputations are by innuendo?

What I mean is that there have been no formulated charges. I understand my hon. Friend and other hon. Members hold strong views as to what has occurred, but, so far as I am aware, no one has formulated any definite charge. If my hon. Friend desires to do so, it is quite within his competence. With regard to the question whether I shall be able to deal with this matter to-morrow, I think it is impossible. We are carrying on an investigation into the circumstances attending the raising of this battalion, contracts, and various other charges that have been made, and it is impossible to complete a very difficult task, involving the search of documents and the taking of evidence, in a very short time, and therefore I shall ask the hon. Gentleman to have patience.

Is it not true that a long typewritten precis giving the whole of these facts was lodged with General Woollcombe, on the 9th of February, for communication to the War Office?

My charges are quite definite. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Messrs. Devereux and Watson accepted illicit commissions from the contractor to this battalion? The War Office know that, and Devereux is still on the War Office List and is evidently not to be removed.

I am glad to have it quite "pat," if I may say so.

I said so long ago.

Now we know where we are. As regards the hon. Member's question it may be true, as he states, and no doubt is, as he knows, that this report was handed in to General Woollcombe, but it is quite a different thing to hand in a report to a general officer commanding-in-chief of a district, and handing in a report to the War Office. It does not happen to have reached me until this morning.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Report of the British Empire Committee upon the question of alleged illicit commissions was handed to General Woollcombe on 30th October, 1914, and when he first became aware of that fact; and whether he has made himself acquainted with the substance of such Report?

I am not aware, on what date the British Empire Committee handed the Report mentioned by the hon. Member to General Woollcombe. As I have already stated, it has not yet been submitted to the War Office and I have not had an opportunity of making myself acquainted with its contents.

Was this question not put as far back as 25th February?

I think that is quite true, but no Report has yet reached the War Office, although I have, by the courtesy of Sir Bindon Blood, been furnished with a copy.

If there is a Committee of Inquiry, what charges will be inquired into seeing that the right hon. Gentleman says that no charges have been made?

The inquiry will be made into the aspersions cast upon the honour of those mentioned in the questions.

Why have I not been informed of that fact?

I informed my hon. Friend two or three days ago that we were inquiring into this matter.

Do you propose to call me?

I shall give that matter my serious consideration.

On account of these answers I must, in any case, state my case to-morrow, if I am allowed, on the Third Heading of the Consolidated Fund Bill.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can inform the House of the use to which money paid by a contractor to battalion funds is put; and whether he can say if any such money was paid by the contractor Devereux to the funds of the Empire Battalion Royal Fusiliers?

It is usual for the contractor to pay a proportion of profits to regimental funds. I cannot answer the second part of the question until further investigation has been made. This is now in progress.

When will the right hon. Gentleman be able to do so?

I cannot do anything till the investigation is complete; it is not possible for me to say how long that may be?

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how he is making this investigation?

It is being made Departmentally.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War the circumstances in which Lieutenant and Quartermaster Frank Willard, 17th (Service) Empire Battalion Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment) was removed from the Army?

The officer commanding 17th Service Battalion Royal Fusiliers, being dissatisfied with the manner in which Quartermaster and hon. Lieutenant F. Willard performed his duties, preferred charges against him. These were investigated by a Court of Inquiry assembled under the order of the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Command. The proceedings and findings of the Court having been carefully reviewed by the Army Council, it was considered necessary in the interests of discipline that Lieutenant and Quartermaster Willard should be removed from the Army.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say if any evidence was taken from the men of the regiment?

No, Sir. I have not seen the proceedings of the Court of Inquiry, but I imagine that evidence has been taken from all sources which were considered desirable to get information from.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the whole regiment regrets this man having been removed?

I am not aware of that.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether General Woollcombe was informed by General Sir Bindon Blood, chairman of the British Empire Committee, of the charge preferred against two members of the Committee of having demanded and received money from the equipment contractor; whether he was also informed that the Committee had given the contracts for victualling and hutting to the two members of the Committee; and whether, in view of this, did he advise the return of these contracts to the two members, as reported to the general Committee of the Empire Committee?

I understand Sir Bindon Blood did make a communication to General Woollcombe, but as it was verbal I am uncertain as to its nature. I believe General Woollcombe was informed regarding the allocation of the contracts for hutting and messing and that he told Sir Bindon Blood that the huts were progressing very well and were in his opinion superior to any he had seen. He further stated that he saw no reason for breaking the contracts for hutting and messing. Since I drafted that answer to the question, by the courtesy of Sir Bindon Blood I have received a copy of the report which he furnished to General Woollcombe. I have not had time to make myself fully aware of its contents.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether Lord Kitchener issued an order that business men who joined the Territorials for Home defence would be granted forty-eight hours' leave every fourteen days for business purposes; if so, whether he is aware of the discontent of such business men caused by commanding officers ignoring the order referred to; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?

No, Sir; no such order was issued as that referred to by the hon. Member. The matter is obviously one which cannot be withdrawn from the discretion of commanding officers, but I have no doubt that every consideration possible, that is consistent with military exigencies, will be given to those having urgent business affairs requiring their attention.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War what provision will be made for men in the New Armies who become partially or wholly incapacitated on account of illness or injuries received while undergoing training?

Men of the New Armies are entitled to the full benefits of the regulations in these matters, like other Regular soldiers.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether Post Office telegraphists who joined and are now serving in various Territorial units in many cases are being transferred to signal sections of the Territorial Royal Engineers; and, if so, whether they will be entitled on transfer to carry the rank and pay that they at the time of transfer hold in the units they leave, or whether they will be transferred as sappers?

Such transfers are only carried out with the consent of the men affected. Men accepting these transfers join the signal units of the Royal Engineers as sappers, and receive the pay sanctioned for Post Office telegraphists employed in such units.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether, on the recent departure of certain units from camp at Winchester, their harness, tents, blankets, and surplus equipment, though perfectly fit for further use, were left on the ground or burnt; and whether the resources of local pig-keepers have been widely augmented from their surplus rations?

No, Sir. So far ass is known at the War Office, the surplus equipment left behind by the units referred to was collected and returned to store. As regards the local pig-keepers, it is well known that such individuals in the neighbourhood of barracks, as of any other large community, invariably make arrangements to purchase cook-house refuse for the purpose of pig-feeding, and I am not aware of anything beyond this having occurred at Winchester.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the information which prompted this question came from a responsible military source, and that the reference to pig-keepers was as to actual rations which had been over-estimated?

I was not aware of that. Perhaps the hon. Member will be good enough to let me have the report which has reached him, and then I will be able to have further inquiries made.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I sent it to the right hon. Gentleman's financial colleague?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if, in view of the fact that the Government have now accepted the definition of a soldier's dependant as anyone who is found as a fact to have been dependent on him, he will see that the Army Order of 27th October last, which defines dependants as members of the soldier's family, is cancelled and that a fresh order is circulated in all Post Offices and other necessary places?

The Army Order in question was amended on 26th February in this particular, and a fresh leaflet has been issued to all Post Offices and other necessary places.

Will the hon. Gentleman see that it is circulated to all Post Offices'? To my certain knowledge it is not at all the Post Offices yet.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office what is the practice in cases in which a mother is granted allowances where she has more than one son at the front; is she entitled to a sum on behalf of each son equal to what his earnings contributed to her comfort before his enlistment; and is there any monetary limit which binds the mother who has three or four sons in the Army down to the allowance level of another who may have only one so serving?

The mother is eligible for allowances for each son according to the support actually given before enlistment, but the total contribution from public funds is limited to the grant for a wife. When there are several sons they may increase the total by separate allotments.

I understand that where two sons enlist, one can make an allotment to his mother and the other to his father. If more than two sons enlist, can the third make an allotment to a sister, and the fourth to a brother, and so on?

I would like notice of that question.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office what instructions have been issued to the pension officers as to the method of arriving at the separation allowances for dependants; whether any similar instruction have been communicated to the pen- sions committees; and whether those committees are informed whether their recommendations have been adopted or not, or any other guidance given to them in the performance of their duties?

As regards the instructions issued to pension officers, I would refer the Noble Lord to the answer given to the hon. Member for Lanarkshire on the 10th February, of which I will send him a copy. I understand instructions to pension committees have been given, or will be given, by the Local Government Boards concerned. It is not the general practice to inform committees of individual decisions unless some point of principle is involved affecting their future proceedings.

Can the hon. Gentleman send me a copy of that?

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that some people, at any rate, find it very difficult to discharge their duties in the absence of all indication as to what line they ought to take?

The instructions to pension committees are issued by the Local Government Board. I understand arrangements have been made for more frequent conferences between pension officers and pension committees.

Is it really impossible to communicate to pension committees the instructions given to pension officers?

They are under separate authority, but I understand the instructions are similar if not identical.

Have arrangements yet been made to reimburse these pension committees in the matter of granting all these allowances?