asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the subject and purport of the communications between the permanent officials of the British Foreign Office and the Foreign Committee of the French masonic secret society called the Grand Orient since the beginning of 1907; and if he will lay upon the Table of the House all the communications exchanged between those bodies in the months of May and June, 1914?

No such communications have passed.

Or between any of the staff of the Foreign Office?

No, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government have granted safe conduct for the voyage to America of the newly appointed Austrian Ambassador to Washington, Count Tar-nowski; and whether he has any statement to make on this matter?

The request of the Austro-Hungarian Government for a safe conduct for Count Tarnowski was communicated to His Majesty's Government by the United States Ambassador in London and was refused. Mr. Page subsequently informed His Majesty's Government that the United States Government were desirous to receive Count Tarnowski as Ambassador from the Dual Monarchy and that they hoped that, in those circumstances, His Majesty's Government might find themselves able to grant a safe conduct for the Ambassador and his suite. His Majesty's Government did not desire to refuse a request thus put forward by the United States Government in their own name and an assurance was accordingly given that the Ambassador and those accompanying him would not be prevented from proceeding on their journey.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many tons of copper have been allowed to pass into Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Holland during the last two months; and what was the amount imported by those countries during the same two months of the year 1913?

The total amount of copper and alloys imported into the four countries during the last two months was 2,813 tons 10 cwt. The figures for the same two months in 1913 are not available, but the average import for two months during 1911–1913, less exports to enemy countries, was 6,887 tons.

Did any of these 2,000 tons go to blacklisted firms?

I do not think so, but I should clearly have notice of a question of that kind.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the 2/7th Sherwood Foresters, now stationed in Galway, have been officially ordered to pay half the expenses of erecting stabling for their regimental horses and mules out of regimental funds; whether permission to billet the animals was refused, and that the animals had to stand night and day in the open in the inclement weather recently experienced; and whether he will take steps to relieve the regiment from such payment?

It was not practicable to billet the horses in Galway, and stabling is being provided. The regiment concerned will not be called upon to pay for this stabling.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether warrant officers who are in receipt of pensions and who have obtained the Military Cross, thus entitling them under Articles 775 and 1,157 of the Royal Warrant to 6d. per day increase of pension, axe being refused this increase on the ground that they were holding temporary commissions when they won the decoration; and whether this has the sanction of his Department, in view of the fact that these men are not eligible for retired pay as officers?

No additional pension or gratuity is given in respect of the Military Cross to a commissioned officer.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he is aware of the hardship among pensioned soldiers owing to the fact that when the draft book for pensions allowances is finished there is a delay of many weeks before the Baker Street office issue a new book, and that complaints made to that office in regard to this matter receive no attention; and will he, in view of the hardship to these men in being deprived for several weeks of their allowance, have the matter given immediate attention?

In cases of ordinary renewal a new book is issued a week before the old one expires. Delays are, I understand, not common, and are usually due to the failure of the pensioner to forward his life certificate at the right time. I am informed that complaints always receive attention.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will explain on what grounds payment of a gratuity or pension is deferred to a parent if there is another son serving for whom he or she is drawing an allowance; whether the parent is entitled; and, if not, will he state the reason?

In certain cases, where one or two or more sons had been killed, payment of gratuity was suspended lest it should prejudice a claimant's pension subsequently arising; but orders have already been given not to defer payment on these grounds.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office concerning No. 7438, Private C. Brook, 9th Durham Light Infantry, C Company, 12th Platoon, British Expeditionary Force, France, a soldier who left his home and four motherless children, aged one, four, seven, and nine, respectively, when he joined the Army in the care of his sister-in-law Miss A. E. Taylor, who was then and is now acting as foster-mother to his children, whether he is aware that Private Brook when he joined the Army on 19th July last applied for dependant's separation allowance for Miss Taylor and his four children whereas payment was only made for the children; if he is aware that during the four months Private Brook was under training before he was sent to France he repeatedly asked for the omission to pay separation allowance for his children's foster-mother to be rectified; if he is aware that the hon. Member for West Bradford wrote to him on 7th October last explaining the whole circumstances of the case and pressing for payment of the full amount due, and again on 28th October pressing for early settlement, and that no detailed reply to the letter of 7th October was received until 7th November, when a letter was received which erroneously stated that Private Brook had not claimed separation allowance for Miss Taylor, whereas, in point of fact, Private Brook did claim for her and was assured by the person in charge at the Bradford recruiting office, whose name Private Brook believes to be Mr. C. Davidson, that all was in order, and Miss Taylor would be paid her allowance; if he will ascertain whether the matter has now been put right and all the arrears have been paid; and, if not, whether he will take steps to put it right and cause the arrears to be paid as soon as possible?

I am unable to say whether all the facts are as stated, but as I informed the hon. Member on the 7th November, Private Brook on enlistment claimed separation allowance for his children, but not for Miss Taylor. The Territorial Force Association has already been instructed to take steps to obtain a claim in favour of Miss Taylor for investigation.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office respecting the late Private M. Halstead, No. 3942, 4th Battalion Cameron Highlanders, who enlisted on 9th November, 1915, and made an allotment of 3s. 6d. per week out of his pay when he enlisted and claimed separation allowance for his mother at the same time, and whose letters to his mother proved that up to the date on which he was killed in action, namely, 17th August, 1916, he was continually trying to get a settlement of the amount due to his mother for separation allowance, but with- out success; if he is aware that the War Office have decided to pay separation allowance for twenty-six weeks from the date on which the soldier's mother was notified of her son's death, but not for the period during which the soldier was ineffectually trying to secure payment to his mother of the amount due to her; and if he will see that the arrears which accumulated during the period in question are acknowledged and paid?

As I informed the hon. Member by letter on the 6th instant, authority has been given for the payment of arrears of separation allowance from the date of enlistment.

asked the Prime Minister whether he can make any statement about increased separation allowances?

A scheme is under consideration at the Treasury.

May I ask whether the results of this deliberation with the Treasury will be made known before the House rises for the holidays, or will the House have to wait until February?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer asked me to say that the utmost expedition would be used. We are very anxious that the House should have the scheme before it in order that it may judge of it.

Shall we know before the House adjourns on Friday, or shall we require to wait until February?

Perhaps I might be permitted to answer. The scheme is one which involves a very large sum of money. It is being carefully examined, with every desire to expedite it, but obviously the House will not expect it to be rushed without proper examination.

What I want to know is, shall we require to wait until the House reassembles in February before we know we can get an answer?

I thought I had given the answer. It will be dealt with before the House rises if it can be dealt with in that time properly and adequately. If not, the House must wait.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the soldiers who are medically fit for active service classified as C 2 and C 3 are working seven days per week on hay baling in Cornwall, with only half an hour allowed for dinner, including Sunday; and if he will consider the question of giving the men in question one day's rest in seven?

No, Sir; I am not aware that soldiers are working, as alleged, seven days a week on hay baling, and I fear that weather conditions would not ordinarily permit of it. If the hon. Member will furnish me with more precise details, I will have the matter inquired into.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will explain the rule under which some men convicted by court-martial of refusing to undertake military service are sent to civil prisons, while others are sent to military detention camps; and, seeing that John Nunan, an Irishman of this class, refuses on principle to obey any military order, can he state any reason for imprisoning him in a military camp?

If the hon. Member will refer to Army Order No. 10 of the 25th May, 1916, of which I will furnish him with a copy, and Section 44 of the Army Act, he will find the information he requires.

Is not the reason for sending this young man to military detention the fact that he will not obey military orders, whereas he is quite willing to obey prison orders, and that therefore he will receive extra punishment? Is not that the reason why he is sent to military detention?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Local Government Board whether he has received representations with regard to the case of Thomas Cockeram, of Meynell, Langley, near Derby, which was dismissed by the Derbyshire Appeal Tribunal without Cockeram having an opportunity of being present or being represented at the hearing of this case; and, in view of the hardship of the man being refused a rehearing, as he had no notice of the hearing, whether he will advise the tribunal to grant a rehearing in this case?

The Local Government Board are in communication with the Appeal Tribunal in reference to the case.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether toe-plates are not being applied to the soles of Army boots when issued, and that officers state that an economy? would be effected by their application; will he state whether Army boots are being issued frequently or generally with out metal protection being applied to the soles; will he cause inquiries to be made among officers and men having had practical experience on active service as to the desirability of such application; is he aware that metal toe-plates are frequently supplied at the Front for repairs, and that such repairs would not be so soon needed if they were applied before the boots were issued; and whether the French soldiers are supplied with boots on the soles of which nails or other metallic means for preventing wear are applied?

With the exception of boots for men in the Mechanical Transport, all Army boots are now fitted with toe-plates and heel-plates as well as hobnails in heel and sole; the outer sole is steel billed, to save wear. Boots are fitted in accordance with the indications of the military authorities in the field. I am not aware of the practice of the French authorities in regard to the fitting of their boots.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is satisfied that promotions in the Army are not influenced by any other reason than that of merit as tested by efficiency in the field; whether, if not, he can state why so many inefficient officers still hold high commands in spite of bad results; and whether he will take steps accordingly?

Yes, Sir; my Noble Friend the Secretary of State is satisfied that efficiency is the only consideration.

Is the hon. Gentleman also satisfied that full efficiency has been attained?

I am.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether promotion in the Army Medical Services is determined by seniority or by merit?

Promotion in the Army Medical Service, as in other branches of the Army, is determined by seniority and merit.

But in the event of seniority and merit not being associated, which is preferred?

They usually are associated.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will ascertain and state whom Sir John Max well consulted last May, if any person, on the legality of trying persons not subject to military law by field general courts-martial, held in camera, in capital cases, and on the legality of having some such persons executed and others sent to penal servitude in pursuance of sentences of such Courts; whether he was, or is, aware that this procedure is unprecedented; whether he was, or is, aware that there is no law authorising it; and if he will specify the law on which Sir John Max well was acting?

I have nothing to add to the replies which have already been given by the late Prime Minister, the late Home Secretary, and the Attorney-General on this subject.

In view of the alleged replies to which I am referred being evasions, I must ask the hon. Member whether Sir John Maxwell has been consulted with reference to this question, in which there is involved a charge of murder?

I have nothing to add to the previous statements.

This is a serious question, and I ask your permission, Sir, to put it down for to-morrow, to give the hon. Member an opportunity of consulting Sir John Maxwell.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office, having regard to the fact that Captain Bowen Colthurst was ordered on the 26th April not to leave the Portobello Barracks, which order was confirmed by Lieutenant-Colonel M' Cammond, if he will say why Captain Colthurst was two days later permitted, in company with a senior officer, to make a raid upon Mrs. Sheehy Skeffington's house, and whether any and, if so, what notice was taken of this fresh act of indiscipline prior to his arrest on 5th May?

I am inquiring, and will let the hon. Member know.

asked when the Irish prisoners sentenced by courts-martial will be treated as political prisoners?

I would refer the hon. Member to the full statement made on this subject by my predecessor on the 14th November.

Will the scheme for the transfer of these men to Lewes be carried out before Christmas, and will the Countess Markievicz, who is in absolutely solitary confinement, participate in the amelioration which has been extended to the men?

Practically all the prisoners have already been transferred to Lewes. The Countess Markievicz will participate in the same treatment as has been extended to the men.

In what prison?

At Aylesbury.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the numbers of Irish youths, ranging from 16 to 19 years of age, still suffering penal servitude in the convict prisons of Dartmoor and Portland for offences described by the late Prime Minister as venial and pardonable errors; whether he is aware of the extent and intensity of the resentment in Ireland against this continued punishment; and whether all those youths will be released before Christmas?

May I ask has the right hon. Gentleman looked at "Hansard" for the 10th of May last, in which he will find the words quoted? I put the date in the question, but it was struck out at the Table.

I am sure the words did not refer to the crimes to which my answer refers.

Yes, they do.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that eight are under eighteen years of age, and that we received a guarantee that all boys under eighteen would be sent home?

I cannot confirm the last part of the question. With regard to the ages, if the hon. Gentleman is right, it has to be remembered that some of these lads were convicted of offences, either amounting to, or approaching, murder.

Will the right hon. Gentleman refer to the report of the House of Commons for 10th May, in which he will find what is quoted in my question?

When shall we get the report of the trials of these men, which the late Prime Minister promised, so that the House will be able to judge of the accuracy of the statement the right hon. Gentleman has just made?

I think I must ask for notice of that.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the Irish National Aid Association are anxious to supply a Christmas dinner to the Irish prisoners of war at Frongoch Camp if they are not released before that time; and if he will grant permission to the association to carry out their wishes and allow them to supply all prisoners in both the North and South Camps with the usual Christmas fare?

Yes, Sir; I have given permission to this association to send into Frongoch Camp a consignment of Christmas fare. The men who are still in the South Camp will be allowed to share in it.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a number of men from the Westport and Aghagower districts, county Mayo, are still detained in English prisons under the Defence of the Realm Act, and that no evidence has ever been adduced that they were in any way connected with the Irish rebellion, and that there are no grounds even for suspicion of their complicity in it; and, having regard to the irritation caused in their districts by their prolonged detention, he can now see his way to order their immediate and unconditional release?

There are only eight men from county Mayo who are still interned under the Defence of the Realm Act. Their cases were fully considered by the Advisory Committee, who recommended their continued detention. As to the question of release, I understand that my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary for Ireland proposes to make a statement to-day or to-morrow.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman does he remember that none of these men have been tried or charged, and what has become of our Habeas Corpus Act?

I am quite aware of the facts. In every case the Committee has considered the facts and has advised accordingly.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that Irish prisoners of war were sent to Lewes in convict garb and in chains; if he is aware of the indignation expressed in Ireland at such treatment; and if he will say whether this treatment has the sanction of the Government?

My predecessor decided that those Irish prisoners who gave an undertaking not to attempt to escape during the journey to Lewes should be removed in plain clothes and in charge of warders also in plain clothes. The majo- rity of prisoners gave the promise and travelled in plain clothing, but those who refused to give this undertaking could not be allowed that privilege.

What is the object of the Government's policy in regard to Irish prisoners; and is it hoped to conciliate Ireland in this way?

That does not arise out of the question.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will cause instructions to be issued for the return of the sum of £66 19s. 1d. to Miss Julia Hannon; if he is aware that this sum was taken from her by a Dublin police detective and deposited in the Bride well Police Station on 11th April, 1916; if he is aware that the money is reported to have been lost whilst in charge of the police; and if he will say who is liable for its return?

I am informed that the sum of £61 19s. 1d. was in the possession of the police in connection with a criminal charge against the person named at the time of the rebellion. While the rebels-were in occupation of the Bride well the press in which it was locked up was. broken up and the money, with other property, was removed. In the circumstances the police are advised that they are not liable for the loss.

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman answer the later portion of the question, and state who is liable, having regard to the fact that this lady was taken up on this criminal charge, was tried, found not guilty, and discharged? Who will give her back her money?

I answered that the police are advised that they are not liable.

To whom is this lady to apply to get back her money?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether, in spite of the Government's promise that the piecework prices of workmen once fixed should not be reduced unless the method of production were altered, Messrs. Waring and Gillow, contractors to the War Office, have persistently reduced piecework prices; and whether he will take steps to ensure that these reductions shall cease?

A complaint of this nature has been brought to my notice and I have also received a communication on it from the firm in question. I understand that the head of the firm will take an early opportunity of seeing my hon. Friend, and I hope that in this way it may be possible to reach a satisfactory solution of such difficulties as may exist.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will have an inquiry made into the alleged insanitary and intolerable conditions of the camp of the 4th Company, 107th Provincial Battalion Training centre, Manningtree, it being alleged that the men are housed in a disused malting house and have to sleep on ground saturated with pools of water?

Inquiries have been made into this case. The men are living in a disused malting house, but the hon. Member will be glad to hear that there is no truth in the allegations which have been made to him. The ground is not saturated with water and the men are comfortably housed. I am further informed that the senior medical officer reports that of the 1,200 recruits in categories B 1 and C 1 who are at Manningtree, a large number will be pasesed shortly into Category A. This shows that the conditions are healthy.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether permission has yet been given by Germany for any representatives from the United States to visit and report upon the camps in Poland and East Prussia where British prisoners of war have been sent on working parties; and, if not, whether steps can be taken to urge upon the Government of the United States the extreme desirability of obtaining such permission as soon as possible?

I am not quite sure to what working camps. in East Prussia my hon. Friend refers, but Mr. Jackson, of the United States Embassy at Berlin, visited the British prisoners of war at Libau on 16th October last and reported in generally favourable terms on their treatment. We were informed by the United States Embassy at Berlin early in October that steps had been taken to bring back the small number of British prisoners of war who were working in Poland.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will consider the possibility of shortening the time of four months or more that is now required for the delivery of parcels from here to prisoners of war at Yozgad, Turkey in Asia?

His Majesty's Government are not responsible for the delay, which is largely due to the inaccessibility of this camp. We have already asked the United States Ambassador at Constantinople to press the Porte to remove our prisoners at Yozgad to a more accessible and more suitable camp.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is very considerable destitution among the prisoners at this camp through the failure to receive percels sent from here?

I am not aware of it as a fact, but I am afraid it is true.

When do you expect some improvement in this matter?

We have made very strong representations quite lately.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether parcels posted to soldiers serving with the British Expeditionary Force by relatives do not in many cases reach their destination, and that out of seven parcels recently forwarded to Rifleman Llewellyn, No. 3493, A Company, 11th Battalion King's Royal Rifles, British Expeditionary Force, not one has been delivered; and whether he will have inquiries made into the matter?

My hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I fear that on active service occasional delay or loss of parcels for the troops is inevitable. I had not heard of the case to which the hon. Member refers, but I will have inquiry made in the matter and will acquaint him with the result.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will have an inquiry made into allegations of serious insanitary conditions and the absence of essential precautions at the Isolation Hospital, Tunbridge Wells, where it is alleged that there is no isolation, the patients mixing indiscriminately with each other, and patients are allowed outside for hours a day mixing with any number of civilians?

Inquiries have been made as to this hospital, which is under civil administration, and the suggestions in the question are not in accordance with the facts. The Tunbridge Wells Isolation Hospital is a well-equipped hospital, containing fifty-eight beds in four separate pavilions. The proof that there is no promiscuous mingling of patients lies in the fact that no case of cross infection has occurred during the War. Patients do not mix with civilians. The sanitary conditions are satisfactory, and the medical officer of health, who visits the hospital daily, states that no insanitary condition has arisen during the three years he has held office.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if his attention has been called to the case of No. 5/56,183, T. R., Private F. Simpson, 84th Battalion Tyneside Rifles, Hornsea Bridge Camp, who has a wife and fourteen children (twins on three occasions), the eldest of his children being only thirteen years of age; and whether, having regard to the burden that would fall upon Mrs. Simpson if her husband was killed or disabled, he will either arrange to retain this soldier on Home service, as requested by the Bradford Soldiers' and Sailors' Dependants' Relief Committee, or to discharge him from the Army altogether?

I am afraid I can add nothing to what was contained in the letter on this case which my hon. Friend will already have received from my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on November 3rd.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether officers commanding troops at home have been requested to ascertain the men in their battalions who have been accustomed to agricultural work, with the view of providing suitable labour in the districts where the troops are being trained; whether he continues to receive complaints that farmers have been supplied with men unaccustomed to agricultural work; and whether adequate means have been taken to prevent unsuitable men being provided in future?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he has yet received reports with regard to the continuance of that form of field punishment known as "crucifixion"; and when he will make any statement on the subject?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that there is inequality in the administration of justice in the British Army in France owing to the varying practice of commanding officers, some awarding field imprisonment No. 1 only for grave offences while others do so for minor irregularities; whether he is aware that this form of punishment is not only degrading to the victim, but by creating feelings of indignation and discontent in the minds of British soldiers who witness it tends to destroy the moral of the Army, besides leaving a bad impression on the minds of our Allies the French population; and whether, seeing that field imprisonment No. 2 is precisely the same punishment as No. 1, with the omis- sion of the part known as crucifixion, the Government will take immediate steps to abolish it and substitute field imprisonment No. 2?

I must, in the first place, protest against the term "crucifixion." By its continued use, unfair and unnecessary prejudice is introduced. In accordance with the intention indicated by my right hon. Friend the present Prime Minister, reports were sought from all the General Officers commanding Armies in the field. I would remind the House that it is upon these officers and not upon any of those who sit here that the responsibility—I must say the very onerous responsibility—lies of maintaining effective discipline without which, not only the safety of the Armies, but also the success of operations will be jeopardised.

All the responsible commanders consulted except one agree that it is impossible to do away with field punishment. The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief in France, whose experience in this matter, of course, covers the widest field, strongly desires that this form of punishment should be retained, and in particular thinks that the abolition of Rule 2 (b) would have disastrous and far-reaching consequences. He attributes the rapid building up of discipline in the New Army units largely to the judicious use by commanding officers of the power of awarding field punishment, and he fears that the result of its abolition must inevitably be that recourse to the death penalty would become more frequent. I am sure that the House will recognise that civilian standards of what is suitable form of punishment are quite inapplicable to the necessarily stern conditions of active service. In such conditions punishment must be summary and concentrated; it must not, by being spread over a long period, deplete the fighting line and provide men, even men of good character, with a chance they may find it difficult to resist of getting away from field conditions. The essentials in field punishment are the infliction of physical discomfort and the stimulation of the sense of shame.

The desire of the military authorities to use the necessary power of awarding exemplary punishment for its just objects, and for no more than its just objects, has, I think, been conclusively shown in the Army (Suspension of Sentences) Act, the provisions of which are well known, but in regard to which it may not be equally well known that the principle and details of the measure were suggested by the then Commander-in-Chief in France.

Although, therefore, field punishment cannot be abolished, the Army Council see their way to provide some additional safeguards and to standardise the carrying out of the punishment when it is inflicted, but this requires some further consideration, and I am not in a position to furnish any details to-day.

Are we to understand that a written report will be laid before the House upon the subject? Can the hon. Gentleman tell us when he will be in a position to furnish further details?

I cannot say that. If my hon. Friend will consult me in private I shall give him all details I have in my possession and arrange with him to discuss the thing in this House if necessary.

Will the articles on this form of punishment appearing in the newspapers associated with the present Secretary for War now be suspended?

Will inquiries be made as to the methods adopted in the French Army for maintaining discipline without this form of punishment?

My right hon. Friend has made those inquiries.

Will the reports from the commanders in the field which the War Office has received be published?

I have not consulted my right hon. Friend.

Will the hon. Gentleman give an assurance, pending these decisions, that field punishment No. 1 shall cease in this country?

As far as I know, field punishment No. 1 has never been enforced in this country.

If I give the hon. Gentleman instances will he assure the House that it shall not occur again?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office how many sentences of field punishment No. 1 have been inflicted on British soldiers in France since the commencement of the War; how many of such sentences have been awarded by courts-martial and how many by commanding officers under their summary powers, respectively; and whether this form of punishment has been inflicted for such minor offences as galloping mules on the highway, losing steel helmets, losing iron rations, firing a round of ammunition by accident when practising rapid loading, and first offences of simple drunkenness unaccompanied by aggravating circumstances?

It is not practicable to give the information which the hon. and gallant Member desires, but I would remind him, as has previously been stated in this House, that under the provisions of Section 44 (5) of the Army Act, field punishment may be awarded for any offence.

Will the hon. Gentleman obtain particulars of the case in which it is admitted by the War Office that men suffering field punishment died under the infliction?

I have no knowledge of any such admission made by the War Office.

Will my hon. Friend see that those persons who have circulated reports that men have died under crucifixion are dealt with according to law?

What is the most junior rank of officer who is capable of inflicting the punishment of crucifixion?

The hon. Member should give notice of that question.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that soldiers proceeding home on leave are kept waiting sometimes for three days at the French ports; that the arrangements for the rationing and billeting of these men are so inadequate that they have often to go without either food or sleep; and whether he will make representations to the military authorities in France as to the necessity for a better treatment of the soldiers returning on leave when detained at the ports?

Men are, of course, sometimes detained at the French ports, but there is accommodation for a large number of men at each of the ports commonly used. The feeding arrangements have been investigated, and it is found that rations are drawn for every day that men are detained at ports. Branches of the Expeditionary Force canteens are also available.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the only accommodation is an open shed paved with cobble stones, and sometimes used for horses?

I will have inquiries made.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office how many British soldiers have been shot by sentence of courts-martial in France since the commencement of the War; and whether the Government will take steps to abolish capital punishment in the Army except for offences in respect of which the extreme penalty could be inflicted in the civil criminal Courts and for offences under Sections 4 and 7 of the Army Act?

It has already been stated to the House that the information asked for in the first part of the question cannot be given. The answer to the second part is in the negative, and I cannot hold out any hopes that it will be otherwise than in the negative.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will state how many cases have been tried by court-martial in France in the British Army since the commencement of the War; and whether, seeing that owing to the exigencies of the Service courts-martial in France are generally composed almost entirely of regimental officers inexperienced in the administration of justice, even when trying the gravest cases, the Government will take steps to appoint specially for court-martial duty circuits of officers unfit for general service in the field but fully qualified by knowledge and experience to act as members, and thus not only obtain a better and more uniform administration of justice in the Army, but save the enormous amount of time that has to be spent by regimental officers on these duties who can so ill be spared from their battalions?

It is not practicable to give this information. The suggestions which the hon. and gallant Member puts forward have been to a certain extent adopted for nearly two years, inasmuch as specially trained and legally qualified officers are attached to the various commands in France as also in England for the purpose of assisting Courts. Ever since the inception of the first court-martial in the British Army a Court has been composed wholly of regimental officers. I cannot accept the suggestion that they are inexperienced in the administration of justice under a military code. The establishment of a "travelling" Court is opposed to the principle which has obtained in the British Army from time immemorial that if possible one of the members of the Court should be an officer of the unit to which the accused soldier belongs. I would remind the hon. and gallant Member that the court-martial proceedings pass through the hands of many experienced and legally qualified officers before they reach the Judge-Advocate-General, where they are again reviewed, and my Noble Friend the Secretary of State is satisfied that the administration of justice in the Army is carried out with uniformity.

Are we to understand that his Department has no statistics of the courts-martial that have taken place during the War?

We have statistics in every case.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he has yet. decided to lay upon the Table of the House the Report of the Committee of Inquiry set up under the Army Act Amendment Act; and what steps he proposes to take with regard to the Report?

I understand this question has been postponed.

Having regard to the fact that a gallant officer who is vitally interested in this Report will have to leave England before Parliament again meets, will my hon. Friend undertake that a definite answer shall be given to this question before Parliament rises, and in time to bring the whole matter up here if necessary?

Has the attention of the hon. Member been called to a decision given by the South-Western Court yesterday in which it was laid down that an attested man, who had been medically rejected would not be called up for military service?

I cannot promise to give a definite answer to the question put by the hon. Member (Mr. McNeill) without consulting the Secretary of State for War.

I beg to give notice that, if necessary, I will call attention to the matter on the Motion for the Adjournment of the House.

asked how many English, Scottish, and Welsh recruits have passed through Irish reserve battalions or service with Irish regiments since August, 1914?

I am afraid that there are no statistics available, as a man's nationality is not recorded on his. attestation papers.

asked whether instructions have been issued to recruiting officers that men holding exemption certificates from tribunals should be ordered to present themselves voluntarily for medical examination and be threatened, if they do not do so, that the military will challenge the certificates of exemption held by these men?

I am not aware that any instructions of this character have been issued.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he will facilitate the work of Members in answering questions on military points-addressed to them by their constituents by causing a copy of all the Army Council's instructions and similar memoranda to be placed in the Library?

Army Council Instructions are not like Army Orders, public documents. If, however, there were any general desire that copies of these instructions should be available in the Library for reference, my Noble Friend would consider the suggestion. Many of these instructions, however, deal with matters which are not likely to be the subject of questions to Members from their constituents.

Ought we to write to the Secretary of State for War? How are we to convey our wish to him?

Through the ordinary channel.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that officers when they become casualties often lose by theft or carelessness on the part of their units valuable parts of their equipment, such as binoculars and pistols, in addition to having their uniforms partly or wholly destroyed as the result of the injury they have received; has any Army Council order been issued that such losses and damage to uniform will be made good out of public funds; and, if so, will the order be made retrospective?

The Regulations governing indemnification for losses are laid down in Section 19 of the Allowance Regulations. They do not admit of indemnification in cases where the loss was due to negligence on the part of the unit to which the officer belongs. Compensation is permissible under the Regulations in force at the outbreak of war for articles of uniform damaged beyond repair.

asked the Secretary for Scotland with regard to the operations of the Canadian lumbermen employed by the Home-grown Timber Committee at Kirkconnel, in Dumfries-shire, whether he can state what is the working cost per cubic foot of timber after it has been converted and stacked at the mill, and also the cost per cubic foot of the same timber free on rail at Kirkconnel station?

I regret that I am unable to give my hon. Friend the particulars for which he asks.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that a number of farmers in different parts of the country are killing their sows and litters of young pigs owing to the increased cost of feeding stuffs, caused by the new Order with regard to the milling of wheat; and will he say what steps the Government proposes to take in the matter, seeing that if the killing of sows and young pigs continues at the present rate there is not only certain to be a great scarcity of pork in the near future but small farmers will be deprived of what to them has been in the past a valuable source of income?

Yes, Sir; the Board are aware of the tendency to slaughter young pigs and sows on account of the high prices of food stuffs. I am glad to say, however, that the somewhat hasty action reported to have been taken in this respect by some farmers is by no means general. I hope that any such tendency will be checked when the arrangements foreshadowed by my predecessor in reply to a question on the 29th November by the hon. Member for Dumfriesshire have been completed and are in full working.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether the Board pro-poses to prohibit the slaughtering of these small pigs?

I think so.

Will the hon. Gentleman answer my question? Will he say what the Government propose to do in regard to the increased price of feeding stuff for pigs?

The hon. Member must put his question down.

It is down.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if it is the intention of the Govern- ment to guarantee a fixed price for homegrown wheat so as to encourage farmers to till more land?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if he will state whether seeds and fertilising stuffs, as well as machinery, are to be provided by the Government for the farmers of Great Britain; if so, by what method will the scheme be worked; and, in view of the desirability of affording similar inducements to Irish agriculturists, will he see that Ireland is treated in a similar manner as regards this question as Great Britain?

I can at the moment say no more than that the whole question of supplying the farmers essential requirements for the production of food next year is under careful consideration. As Irish agriculture does not come within the scope of the Board, questions relating to the policy to be adopted on that subject in Ireland should be addressed to the Chief Secretary.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has or can obtain statistics showing the amount in tons of foodstuffs growing, harvested, and stored, including households, consumed, destroyed, or spoilt by rats and mice in Great Britain and Ireland, respectively, in any twelve consecutive months; whether he can state the value in money of commodities of all kinds consumed, destroyed, or spoilt by rats and mice in Great Britain and Ireland, respectively, in any twelve consecutive months; whether he is aware of the fecundity of rats and mice; can he state the number of rats one pair and their progeny can produce in twelve months; whether he is aware that rats and mice are germ and microbe carriers of the worst kind; and whether he will take legislative steps to enforce the reduction or extermination of these pests by means of rewards to or fines imposed upon county, borough, or parish councils, or other public bodies or individuals?

No exact figures of the losses caused by rats and mice to foodstuffs are available, but the Board are aware that the fecundity of these animals under certain conditions is great, and that rats may disseminate disease. The destruction of rats has been urged upon farmers by the Board, and they have issued instructions for the purpose in a leaflet which has been widely circulated, a copy of which I am sending the hon. Member. It does not appear that the present time, when professional rat-catchers are scarce, is a convenient one for the introduction of compulsory legislation on the subject.

As it was impossible to hear a word of the answer I will put the question down again.

asked the quantity of bakers' yeast manufactured by the distilleries in the United Kingdom for the past year; and whether this yeast is a byproduct or manufactured direct?

No information is available as to the quantity of bakers yeast manufactured. I am informed that distilleries at which yeast is made require a special plant for the purpose, and that in them the yeast is the product of chief importance.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will consider the advisability of setting up in Ireland a Committee which would have full powers to deal with the distribution of sugar in Ireland?

I am in touch with the Royal Commission on Sugar Supplies in regard to the general distribution of sugar, and I will certainly consider the hon. Member's suggestion.

asked the hon. Member for Wilton, as representing the Food Controller, whether an official intimation had been given that arrivals of sugar after a certain date in October must be devoted solely to the use of brewers and brewers sugar makers; and, if so, whether, in face of the shortage of sugar for domestic use, he proposes to severely restrict the use of it in the production of intoxicants, aerated waters, fancy confectionery, and other luxuries; and whether, as a matter of national economy, he will take steps to restrain tradesmen from compelling the public to purchase goods they do not need as a condition of obtaining small quantities of sugar?

The Royal Commission on Sugar Supplies decided recently not to issue licences for the importation for other purposes than brewing of certain classes of sugar not well suited for ordinary consumption. By this means the space which its importation beyond those limits would have occupied was made available for other kinds of sugar or other necessary articles. The matters referred to in the last part of the question are engaging the Food Controller's attention, and he hopes to be able to announce shortly the steps he proposes to take in regard to them.

Will the statement be made before Christmas as to the proposed steps?

I can add nothing more at present. I can only repeat that the Food Controller is giving the matter his most urgent attention.

asked the hon. Member for Wilton, as representing the Food Controller, whether, having regard to the fact that in the last twelve months the price of feeding stuffs has increased by nearly 100 per cent., and also that the Palm Kernels Trust and other companies interested in the importation and preparation of feeding stuffs have made increased profits in the same period, he will at once proceed to arrange for a plentiful supply of palm kernel, cotton, and linseed cake, at greatly reduced prices, to the farmers?

The Food Controller already has the question of feeding stuffs under his personal consideration. I am not, at the moment, able to make any statement as to the steps which he will take.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that adjoining what is known as the farm of Creggan, in the parish of Moore, close by Ballinasloe, in the county of Roscommon, there is a considerable number of hard-working, industrious, and thrifty occupiers of small economic holdings willing and eager to utilise it for the production of food; and whether, in view of the fact that the owner of this extensive nonresidential grazing tract is in possession of 2,000 acres of grass lands, he will suggest to the Congested Districts Board, to the Estates Commissioners, to the Department of Agriculture, or some other public body dealing with land in Ireland, or interested in the food supply of these countries over which he exercises control, to take immediate steps to have this farm purchased for distribution amongst the small tenants who, at this critical period, will turn it to the best advantage of those countries?

The Congested Districts Board, the Department concerned, inform me that the farm in question is tenanted and that they are not at present in a position to acquire it.

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman say why?

They have not the legal powers.

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that the late Chief Secretary said they had the powers?

Perhaps the hon. Gentle-man will put that question down. It did not reach me.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is aware that several large potato exporters from the North of Ireland have been cornering potatoes with a view to exporting them in the near future out of Ireland; is he aware that two or three large shipping men in Dublin are doing likewise; and, in view of the shortage in the crops and the danger that if the cornering of potatoes is allowed to go on unchecked poor people will be faced with famine; will immediate steps be taken to ascertain fully the quantities of potatoes those potato merchants have stored up and, if necessary, have the Defence of the Realm Regulations put in force with a view to prevent such people from exporting at the expense of the poor of Ireland?

The Department of Agriculture have no information which would show that potato exporters in the North of Ireland or shipping firms in Dublin are acting at stated in the question. The Department are taking steps through the Royal Irish Constabulary to obtain at the earliest possible date a census of the potato stocks available. The Board of Trade have made two Orders to come into force on the 21st instant, one limiting the export of potatoes from Ireland, and the other regulating the use of seed potatoes in Ireland.

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman make inquiries to ascertain who are the people in the North of Ireland that are cornering potatoes and whether they are doing so with the consent and approval of certain officials of the Irish Department?

I do not need to have inquiry made. I am satisfied that the statement is untrue.

Will the Chief Secretary see that the Department of Agriculture in Ireland punblishes a weekly list of those applying for export licences; also showing what quantity of potatoes they are allowed to export?

That question shall be considered.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will take steps to provide an adequate supply of seed potatoes for the tenants of labourers' cottages next spring, to be paid for by a loan extended over a period of years; and will he say if he can arrange a convenient date for an interview on the subject with a delegation from the Irish land and labour organisations?

The Department of Agriculture is occupied with this and other questions of increase of food supply. I will meet a deputation if it is desired, when I am in full possession of the views of the Department.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he has received resolutions from any bodies in Ireland asking that a short Act of Parliament should be passed immediately, compelling the owners of large grazing tracts to let acre allotments to the labourers only in the vicinity of such land for the purpose of agriculture during the period of the War; and, in view of the necessity of keeping up food supplies, will he undertake to introduce such legislation so as to enable the poor to provide potatoes and other necessities of life for their families during the war period?

Resolutions have been received recommending allotments to labourers among other suggestions for utilising grazing lands for the increase of the food supply in Ireland. The question of the best means of increasing the food supply of Ireland is being dealt with in consultation between the Irish Departments and the Food Controller.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if any steps are being, or will be, taken to supply seed potatoes to the poor for the coming season by way of loan which will extend over a period of years?

All necessary steps will be taken. I am in consultation with the Local Government Board and Department of Agriculture on the question of what action is necessary.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will take steps to see that any assistance in the way of providing seeds, manures, and machinery which may be given to the farmers of Great Britain with a view to the production of food will also be given to the Irish farmers; and will he instruct the Irish Department of Agriculture to take immediate steps to ascertain what are the intentions of the English Board of Agriculture with regard to these matters and have the interests of the Irish farmers properly safeguarded?

As regards the first part of the question, inquiries shall be made; and as to the second, I am informed that the Department have been in communication with the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries, London, and other authorities, and have taken all the steps open to them to ensure that supplies of seeds, manures, and machinery shall be available by purchase through the ordinary channels to meet the probable requirements of the Irish farmers in the coming season.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to a circular issued by the leading cocoa manufacturers in the country threatening the Government with a long and bitter struggle as to the Early Closing Regulations; whether funds have actually been raised to prosecute an organised movement of this kind by Messrs. Cad-bury, Messrs. Rowntree, and others; and whether he intends to take any action?

I have been asked to answer this question, as the Order referred to was issued by the Home Office. I have no information with regard to the circular mentioned in the question, nor is the Department aware of any organised resistance to the Order.

If I send the right hon. Gentleman a copy of the circular will he give it consideration?

Certainly.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps the Government intend to take to control the shipping of this country; and if he is aware that shipowners are at present making huge profits as a result of the War?

I am aware of the profits which have been made by some shipping companies. All British ships are now under full control. A very large proportion are requisitioned by the Government, and no ship can start on any voyage without a licence.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in various forms of taxation 78 per cent. of the profits of shipowners are taken by the Treasury, that our Allies are exempting shipowners from all taxation, and that the taxation upon neutrals is infinitesimal compared with that imposed upon British shipowners?

The hon. Member had better put those questions to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

asked how many British ships are now engaged in plying between neutral ports?

There are approximately fifty steamers registered in the United Kingdom trading regularly between neutral ports. In addition to this there are about a hundred ships belonging to the two large China companies which trade with both neutral and Allied ports in the Far East. These are mainly of small size.

asked whether the Report on the Belfast linen trade which appears monthly in the "Board of Trade Gazette" is entirely the composition of the Board of Trade correspondent, or whether it is the joint production of the correspondent and an official of the Board of Trade who collates and summarises the information supplied direct to the Board by the employers in Belfast?

All the information in regard to employment in various trades, whether supplied to the Board of Trade direct or through its local correspondent, is collated and summarised in the Department before publication in the "Labour Gazette."

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the difficulty of obtaining duly qualified certificated officers and engineers for our merchant steamers; that many of our merchant steamers, owing to the impossibility of obtaining a sufficient number of qualified officers and engineers, are running with less than the normal number; whether this shortage is due to the presence of so many of these maritime officers in the Army; whether these men would be serving their country more efficiently on board ship; and, if so, whether he will make representations to this effect to the proper authority with a view to release from military service a sufficient number of these officers and engineers to properly and efficiently man our merchant steamers?

So far as I am aware there is not a very serious shortage of certificated officers and engineers for the mercantile marine, and such shortage as exists, at any rate so far as deck officers are concerned, is due more to the require- ments of the Navy than to the number of certificated officers in the Army. I am aware that a good many marine engineers are employed in important work on shore The Board of Trade have the matter under observation and are prepared to take appropriate action when necessary.

As the hon. Gentle man's information appears to be defective, will he make further inquiries when he will find that the statement in the question is correct?

asked the Comptroller of the Household, as representing the National Health Insurance Commissioners, if he will say what number of insured persons of each sex has been notified to the Commissioners as having gone out of insurance up to 30th June, 1916?

No steps have yet been taken to ascertain from Approved Societies particulars of their members who have lapsed from insurance. I am considering whether we can reasonably require societies to undertake the heavy work involved in supplying this information at the present time.

asked what funds have been issued up to 30th September, 1910, by the Insurance Commissioners to approved societies for investment; and what funds have been invested by the Insurance Commissioners on behalf of approved societies up to the same date?