asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any steps are being taken to bring the war aims of the Allies into conformity with those proclaimed by the Provisional Government and indicated in the formula "peace without annexation or indemnity"?

I cannot undertake to discuss by question and answer the conditions on which the Allies will be prepared to make peace.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the fact that the latest explanation by the Provisional Government of Russia of that country's war aims shows that these coincide with the policy advocated by the Independent Labour Party and by the Union of Democratic Control, he will consider the propriety of asking delegates from these bodies to convey an expression of sympathy and support to our Ally?

The answer is in the negative.

Is it the policy of the Government only to send to Russia delegates who are opposed to the war aims of the Russian Provisional Government?

Certainly not. Any delegates who are sent to Russia will be chosen as representing labour in its fullest sense.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of the fact that Denmark exported into Germany in 1916 283,000 tons of foodstuffs, whilst in 1913 she only exported. into Germany 5,008 tons, and that Holland exported into Germany in 1916 309,927 tons of foodstuffs, whilst in 1913 she only exported into Germany 164,350 tons, and that the excess of foodstuffs exported by Switzerland in 1916 is considerably greater, whether he will enlist the assistance of America so that no American foodstuffs or feeding stuffs may go to countries bordering on Germany without absolute guarantees that they shall not be passed on to Germany?

His Majesty's Government have no reason to believe that under the existing arrangements any American foodstuffs or feeding stuffs are passed on by neutral countries to Germany. The question of the conditions under which the imports of American supplies into these countries will in future be permitted, will no doubt receive the closest attention of the United States Government. I am not prepared to accept as accurate the figures quoted by the hon. Member.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if it is the intention of the Director of National Service in Ireland, under the increased tillage scheme of the Department of Agriculture, to carry but such a widening and cleaning of the smaller rivers in Ireland, which cause periodic flooding, as will bring thousands of acres of land into cultivation for the production of food; and whether it is proposed to carry out this work in the River Barrow area where much useful drainage work of this kind might be undertaken pending the long promised arterial drainage legislation of successive English Governments?

The suggestion of an intention of the Director of National Service to carry out public works must, I think, be founded on a misapprehension. Powers have been conferred on the Department of Agriculture by a recent Regulation for certain necessary improvements of drainage, but no extensive works have been decided on.

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is now in a position to state the reply, if any, of the Railway Executive to the representations made by the Irish Government Departments on the subject of the unfair discrimination made against consignors of fresh fish from Cahirciveen; and whether he will endeavour to secure its removal at the earliest possible moment, in view of the restriction caused in the supply of fish at a time when all food products are urgently required?

I have brought this matter to the attention of my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade, and expect to be able to give a definite reply to my hon. Friend in a few days.

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) if he can state the total quantity of seed potatoes shipped from Ireland between 1st January, 1917, and 30th April, 1917; whether shipments still continue; whether he is aware that in many parts of Ireland there is already a scarcity of potatoes fit for table use; and whether there is any difference, except in size, between seed potatoes and potatoes fit for table use?

During the period referred to 11,381 tons of potatoes for seed were exported from Ireland. With the exception of about 20 tons these potatoes were exported through the War Office authorities and the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries. Licences are still being given in a few cases for the export of potatoes of seed size not required for use as seed in Ireland. The Department are aware that there is a scarcity of table potatoes in many parts of Ireland. There is no difference save as regards size between seed and table potatoes, but where potatoes of early varieties have been kept over until the month of March in the year following that in which they were grown they are, as a rule, no longer suitable for use as human food.

Is it not a fact that the seed potatoes which were shipped from Ireland for seed purposes were quite fit for human food?

I believe that the agriculturists and other potato growers prefer seed potatoes, and so steps were taken to see that seed potatoes should be provided in the best interests of agriculture. I have no reason to suppose that there was any deliberate shipment of table potatoes under the name of seed. They were, in fact, placed under such close supervision that I am satisfied they were only used for purposes of seed in this emergency.

What steps were taken to ensure that these potatoes, shipped from Ireland for seed purposes, were used as seed?

I went into that matter with the President of the Board of Agriculture before these shipments began, and he and I kept in touch with it right through. The hon. and gallant Gentleman may rest assured that every care which could be taken that proper use should be made of these potatoes, and that they should reach their intended destination, was taken.

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland), as representing the Food Controller, whether he is aware that potatoes are being shipped wholesale from Belfast without permits; whether, in one short period recently prior to 1st May, 6,000 tons of potatoes were so shipped from Belfast without a permit; whether the Department has any information as to this defiance of the Food Regulations, and whether it has taken any and, if so, what steps to prevent it; whether the Department proposes to take any steps to deal with the offenders according to law; whether quantities of potatoes are being carted through Belfast every day for shipment; whether the Department is influenced in the granting of permits by the politics, religion, or area of residence of the applicants; and what action, if any, the Department proposes to take in regard to this serious state of affairs?

Before my right hon. Friend answers the question, is it not a fact that the only potatoes which could be exported from Belfast without licence are those for the use of the Army and Navy?

I think that is covered in the answer. The hon. Member appears to have been misinformed. The consignments of potatoes to which he refers were presumably those purchased through the Department by the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries, and shipped by the military authorities. If the hon. Member will furnish particulars of any specific cases in which the Order prohibiting export without a licence has been disobeyed, any necessary action will be taken.

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) if he has received any memorial or representation from the farmers of Clonaslee, Queen's County, with reference to a disused corn mill in that district which is leased to Mr. Samuel Matthews, Tullamore, who has ceased to work it for some time past; and, seeing that a large area of land in this district is under corn this year, and as this is the only corn mill within reasonable distance from Clonaslee, will steps be taken by the Department to have it put into proper repair and reopened for the grinding of corn after next harvest?

Attention was drawn to the mill referred to, and inquiries are being made with a view to ascertaining the possibility of having the mill reopened. The matter will receive the careful attention of the Department of Agriculture in view of the admitted need for milling facilities in the district.

asked whether we are still under agreement to permit the import by Denmark of large quantities of maize for animal food; and whether, in view of the present food position in the United Kingdom, all arrangements which lessen our supplies of food will be at once terminated?

No agreement, as suggested by the hon. Member, exists. The second part of the question does not, therefore, arise. No maize is exported from this country to Denmark.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that the Sunday schools of all churches and chapels in the Manchester district have for the past two or three generations taken their scholars during Whit-week on short excursions, giving them milk and buns, and that uncertainty now exists in the minds of school managers as to the continuance of this long-established practice during the ensuing Whit-week; and whether he can make a statement on the subject?

As I have already informed the House, the Food Controller wishes to discourage school treats and other similar entertainments at the present time, on the ground that they tend unduly to increase the consumption, if not the waste, of breadstuffs. It must be left to the promoters of such outings to use their patriotic discretion in the light of this announcement.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he has any grounds for believing that English bacon is superior to Irish bacon; and, if not, whether he will advise the revision of the scale that fixes the price of English bacon at 10s. per cwt. higher than Irish bacon?

I have already informed the House on more than one occasion that in normal times English bacon has always commanded a higher price than Irish bacon. The current official list shows a difference not of 10s., but of 8s. per cwt., and this margin is further reduced by the fact that the English quotation is "ex factory," while the Irish quotation is "f.o.b." These prices are subject to revision every fortnight. Whatever views I may myself entertain as to the respective merits of English and Irish bacon, it is the demand for each which governs their respective values in British markets.

asked what is the total tonnage at present permitted for the importation of goods which are neither food, munitions of war, or machinery or materials for the production of food or of munitions of war?

Of the total tonnage available as much as 92 per cent. has been placed at the disposal of the Food Controller, the War Office, the Admiralty and the Minister of Munitions, leaving only 8 per cent. for all other commodities.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in order to increase the tonnage available for the importation of food, he will take steps to further restrict the tonnage at present employed on the importation of pulp and paper which is being employed for the printing and advertising of non-essentials?

The Prime Minister has asked me to reply to this question. Active steps have been and are being taken to curtail to the utmost possible extent the use of tonnage for the importation of paper and papermaking materials.

Does the hon. Gentleman remember stating in the House four months ago that some steps would be taken to stop the wastage of paper by the advertising of non-essentials, where essentials are required?

I think that I have previously stated that restrictions were being considered.

Have any restrictions been put in force?

asked the Prime Minister (1) whether he is aware that a large proportion of the inhabitants of this country refuse to believe that there is any food shortage, alleging that, if there were, the Government would not allow the destruction of breadstuffs and other food for the production of beverages and other unnecessary purposes; and whether he will say what steps the Government propose to take to make it clear that they are in earnest in the matter; (2) whether he has received a copy of a resolution, proposed by the vicar and passed unaimously by the congregation assembled at evensong in the parish church of South Moor, in the county of Durham, and consisting almost entirely of men and women dependent on the mining industry, protesting against the waste of foodstuffs in producing alcoholic liquor during the present crisis, and asking the Government to suspend such uses as long as there is a scarcity of food; and whether the Government propose to take action in that sense?

It is not possible to add anything to what has already been said in reply to similar questions.

Has a copy of the resolutions been received?

I understand that they were received.

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that the production of beer an unnecessary purpose?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if his attention has been called to the advance in the price of Persian dates, which are usually sold at about 10s. per cwt., but are now quoted at 50s. to 55s. per cwt.; and whether he will take the necessary steps to ensure that this article of food is supplied at a fair price?

I am aware that the price of Persian dates has been more than doubled during the last six months; but they can hardly be regarded as essential foodstuffs, and the fixing of maximum prices, except for commodities of this description, is not a policy which it is desirable to extend without complete control of the supplies.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the price has gone up from 16s. to 67s.?

Yes.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if, owing to some of the district inspectors of the Royal Irish Constabulary having joined the Army, those district inspectors who remain have largely increased duties to attend to and larger areas with many additional stations to inspect; whether he is aware that, although the discharge of these duties is impossible without the use of motor cars, district inspectors are not allowed, like medical practitioners, to obtain petrol at Government prices, and that they have received no additional pay, bonus, or allowance in consideration of their increase of work; and whether he will, in view of these circumstances, take steps to alleviate the hardship suffered by district inspectors?

The work of constabulary officers has no doubt been increased by reason of the absence of some of them on military service, but it is not always necessary for these officers to travel by motor car, and it is desirable that they should use other means of conveyance as far as possible owing to the great demand for petrol for naval and military purposes. Some officers have received special travelling expenses for inspection of remote stations, and last year the forage allowance was increased by £10. Officers who keep motor cars draw the forage allowance.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman appreciate the fact that it is almost impossible for those who have not got horses to obtain them at the present time, and as the distances are so great, and they must go by motor car, and many of them cannot afford petrol at the present market price, how are they to perform their duties unless facilities are given?

I have not heard from the Inspector-General any complaint that the police officers are not able to discharge their duties. I will refer this question at my hon. Friend's suggestion to him, in order that he may express his view upon it.

Is it not a fact that these gentlemen are already overpaid?

No, Sir. The only officer who is popularly supposed to be overpaid in Ireland is the Chief Secretary.

asked the Chief Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to resolutions of the Ennis National Teachers' Association asking for the withdrawal of the new interpretation of the rule re "the swing of ten" through which so many schools are daily losing the services of an assistant, and also that assistants be promoted to second grade on the same conditions as principals; whether he is aware that these resolutions represent the general feeling of teachers throughout Ireland; and whether, in view of the character of these claims and the hardships under which Irish teachers are now labouring, he will take steps to secure that the requests of the teachers may be granted?

The Commissioners of National Education have received a resolution from the Ennis National Teachers' Association to the effect that assistant teachers should be promoted to the second grade on the same conditions as principals, but they do not appear to have received a resolution from that association asking for a withdrawal of the new interpretation of the rule regarding "the swing of ten." A resolution on this subject has, however, been recently forwarded by the Thurles National Teachers' Association. I believe communications have been taking place between the Commissioners and the Treasury with regard to the operation of the rule.

As this is a small matter within the scope of administration, will the right hon. Gentleman use his good offices in favour of the teachers?

I will see if it is a case for my intervention. It is officially a matter for the Board of Education.

asked the Chief Secretary whether Irish national teachers whose weekly incomes were £3, or above it, were refused a war bonus on the ground that Civil servants having similar incomes had not been awarded it; will he say whether Post Office employés who are in receipt of such incomes have recently been granted a war bonus; and whether under the circumstances the claims of the teachers in question in this respect will now be recognised?

It was decided that the war bonus grant should be paid to teachers on the scale and conditions sanctioned for Civil servants, with the exception that women teachers were allowed the Grant at the same rate as men teachers. Teachers whose emoluments from other sources exceeded £3 per week were excluded from receiving any war bonus. I am making inquiries as to the other matters mentioned in the question.

asked the Chief Secretary whether, in view of the feeling in Parliament, that liberal expenditure on education may prove to be the best economy, he will take care that Ireland secures a fair share of any educational Grant and whether meanwhile he will devote attention to the position of Irish national teachers, whose rate of pay is considerably below that of the corresponding class in this country and whose obligatory expenses have greatly increased since the beginning of the War; and whether, pending the elaboration of larger schemes, he will devise some means of ameliorating the conditions under which the Irish teachers are working?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answers I gave to questions by the hon. Member for Mid-Armagh on the 19th April and the 3rd May, to which, at present, I have nothing to add.

As this question is becoming serious, when shall we get a day to discuss it?

Before there is a day for discussion perhaps those immediately concerned might take the trouble to inform the Chief Secretary for Ireland what their views are. Except by questions in this House and articles in the Press, usually criticising me in very unmeasured terms, I have no opportunity of knowing what are their views.

Has the right hon. Gentleman ascertained from the Treasury what is the amount of financial assistance that Ireland will get in proportion to England and Scotland?

I told the hon. Member some time ago that the question here is what is the necessity of Irish education corresponding to the necessity which has been dealt with in this country. The first thing is to deal with the case and then to ascertain what money is available to meet the difficulties which have arisen.

Are we not said to have the most uneducated people in Europe?

I should not have thought there was any ground for that.

asked the Chief Secretary whether the appeal against the award of extra pensions to Jeremiah Coakley, Snave; John Cremin, Whiddy; and Mary Daly, Gurtnakilla, all in the union of Bantry, was taken within the time limited by the regulations; whether he can state the date of the award of the old age pensions committee and the date of the appeal to the Local Government Board; and whether he can state, if the time for appealing had expired, what jurisdiction the Local Government Board had to entertain the appeal, and on what grounds these people were deprived of the pensions they were entitled to receive?

I am making inquiries in regard to these cases.

asked the Chief Secretary whether any recent regulations have been made as to the employment in Great Britain of males of military age coming from Ireland in search of employment; and can they secure employment as chauffeurs, grooms, indoor servants, and similar occupations non-essential to the conduct of the War, or do they come over under licence to take up work of national importance and release Englishmen of military age called up for service?

The Restricted Occupations Order prohibits the employment of men between eighteen and sixty-one years of age as chauffeurs, grooms, and the like. Cards providing evidence of exemption from military service are issued by Employment Exchanges to Irishmen brought over to Great Britain for essential work in connection with munitions, contracts for Government Departments, port transport and agriculture.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the number of Englishmen of military age who have hitherto escaped liability for service owing to residence in Ireland, many of whom since the outbreak of war have gone to Ireland owing to the hitherto unrestricted opportunity of indulging in horse-racing; and will he consider the advisability of extending the provisions of the Military Service Acts to all males of military age in Ireland who cannot produce a birth certificate proving their birth in that country?

I understand that there are a large number of Englishmen and Scotsmen in Ireland, who are now ordinarily resident there, and therefore outside the scope of the Military Service Acts. A man ordinarily resident in Great Britain does not escape liability for military service by going to Ireland. There has been some difficulty in dealing with such men in the past, but it is believed to have been surmounted, and instructions will shortly be issued.

asked the Prime Minister whether he has received any official information to the effect that the presence of Catholic chaplains at the front is having a demoralising effect on soldiers of other persuasions?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer. The reply is in the negative.

Has the right hon. Gentleman seen the report of a speech delivered by a Venerable Archdeacon in Queenstown, saying that the presence of Irish soldiers at the front is having a demoralising effect?

My attention has not been called to the report, and the answer I gave was with regard to the fact.

asked the Secretary to the Local Government Board whether the secretaries of county and borough tribunals under the Military Service Acts are paid for their services, and, if so, at what rate; and whether it is competent for a member of an Appeal Tribunal to act as its secretary and to receive a salary?

The expenses of the tribunals are met by a grant per case fixed and paid by the Army Council which covers any payment for the personal remuneration of the clerk or secretary; I will send the hon. Member a copy of the Army Council Instructions dealing with the matter. The allocation of the moneys so received is a matter for the tribunal.

asked the Secretary to the Local Government Board if he will instruct the Bradford local tribunal to carry out the Instructions and Regulations under the Military Service Acts, and particularly call their attention to their neglect to send their decisions by post to applicants when the decision has not been given at the hearing; will he ask for an explanation from the tribunal of the reason why they have never communicated their decision in the case of James W. Fitton, of 253, Legrams Lane, Bradford, which case was heard by them on 15th January; will he say what means of redress a person has who is called up to the Colours as an absentee when the tribunal has never communicated the result of the hearing of an appeal; and, seeing that the result in Fitton's case was not communicated to him or to his solicitors within the time allowed for notice of appeal, will he give instructions to the tribunal to accept the notice of appeal now?

I am making inquiries in the matter.

asked the Secretary for Scotland (1) what action he has taken upon the complaint addressed to him by James Mullin, of Irvine, that on 27th April Sheriff M'Kenzie refused to hear him as the friend of an applicant for exemption from military service on the ground of conscientious objection; and (2) if he has received a protest about the treatment of a claimant for exemption from military service named Michael Muir, of Kilwinning, by Sheriff Lyon Mackenzie, of Ayr; is he aware that in the case of Muir he refused to allow him to answer questions, interrupting him whenever he opened his mouth to reply, and that all the members of the Kilwinning local tribunal signed a certificate to the Appeal Tribunal testifying that they had known Muir from his boyhood, and that they all believed him to be a genuine conscientious objector; and if, in the circumstances, he will take action to prevent Muir being called up for military service, and which will secure to him the rights to which he is entitled under the Military Service Act.

I am making inquiry into the matters referred to, and I will inform the hon. Member of the result as soon as I am in a position to do so.

asked the Chief Secretary if his attention has been drawn to the difficulty placed in the way of Irish licensed traders in their endeavour to obtain their supply of spirits allowed by the Government; if he is aware that Irish licensed traders have large supplies of spirits in bond, and that permission to draw the same has been refused by the Excise authorities; and if he will see that the difficulties are removed?

The Board of Customs and Excise is not aware of any difficulty having been placed in the way of Irish licensed traders obtaining the supply of spirits to which they are entitled under the Statutory Rules and Orders, 1917, No. 270, but if the hon. Member will furnish the Board with particulars of any case which he has in mind, inquiry will be made into the circumstances with a view, if possible, to remove the difficulty.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to the activities and objects of the Empire Resources Development Committee, which seeks to deprive the natives of the Dependencies of their rights over these resources; and, in view of the fact that natives are now being recruited in these territories for war service, will he take steps to secure them against any possible apprehension that during their absence they may be deprived of their rights?

I have no reason to suppose that any such apprehensions exist in the minds of the natives referred to by the hon. Member, but if occasion arose I should certainly take steps to reassure them.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the allegations in this question are wholly unfounded and emanates from the Aborigines Protection Society?

asked the Pensions Minister, with regard to the Military Service (Review of Exceptions) Act, what will be the effect in the case of a discharged soldier who has already received a pension and is called up under the Act; if so called up again will he lose his pension; and, if so, will steps be taken to prevent the infliction of such hardship?

The fact of a discharged soldier being called up under the Military Service (Review of Exceptions) Act will not affect any disablement pension he may be receiving for himself. Separation allowances will be substituted for any children's allowances he may be receiving.

Supposing he is again wounded, will be be eligible for a second pension?

I should take it he would be up to the limit of a soldier's full pension.

asked whether any scale is in force for the salaries of clerks to borough and county pensions committees; and what proportion is borne by the Treasury and what safeguards have been adopted to limit expenditure under this head?

There has hitherto been no scale in force for these salaries, and no proportion to be borne by the Treasury has been fixed. Where pending the making of permanent arrangements the administrative expenses of local committees, including these salaries, have been paid out of the funds supplied by the Statutory Committee, local committees have been required to submit estimates to the Statutory Committee, who in approving them have given due regard to the reasonableness of the salaries proposed. Where local authorities have subscribed to these expenses under the Naval and Military War Pensions, etc. (Expenses), Act, 1916, the approval of the Local Government Board or the Secretary of State for Scotland has been required. When the Naval and Military War Pensions (Administrative Expenses) Bill receives the Royal Assent, administrative expenses will be dealt with under its Clause 1 (2), and the Treasury will pay two-thirds of the expenses incurred, not exceeding two-thirds of the estimates approved by the Local Government Board or other Department above-mentioned.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total of the anti-aircraft insurance premiums received during the first year of the existence of the Government scheme of insurance; and what was the total amount of the claims paid during the same period?

I do not think it would be desirable to publish the figures relating to any of the Government insurance schemes at present.

Can the hon. Gentleman say what is the percentage of losses?

That is what I said it would be inexpedient to give. If there is any other point I shall be glad to consider it.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that last September a tramway motor-man and conductor, in the employ of the London County Council, were killed while at work in South London by bombs dropped from enemy aircraft; that the council has been advised that they cannot compensate these men's families under the Workmen's Compensation Act or under Section 44 of the London County Council (General Powers) Act of 1895; and, as one man has left a widow with five young children totally unprovided for and as there is no insurance scheme provided by the Government for life risks against aircraft bombs, if he will consider whether compensation should be paid to the families of these two men killed by enemy acts out of public funds?

No Government insurance scheme for personal injury or loss of life from aircraft has been set up as none was thought necessary in view of existing facilities for life insurance. I understand that the National Relief Fund gives temporary assistance in necessitous cases. I am not aware whether it is in the power of the London County Council to assist from funds at its disposal.

asked whether the Board of Trade are endeavouring to get the joint stock banks to subscribe capital to the new company, the British Trading Corporation; and has the corporation prepared any prospectus inviting subscriptions from the public yet?

In view of the importance which His Majesty's Government attach in the interests of British trade to the early formation of the British Trade Corporation, my right hon. Friend invited representatives of the joint stock banks to meet him in a conference at which the scheme of the corporation was explained and the question of their subscribing to the capital was discussed. As regards the second part of the question, I understand that a prospectus is in course of preparation.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether there is any objection to Members seeing the charter?

I have promised to publish it as a Parliamentary Paper. Perhaps I might add that my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade will make a statement explaining the whole matter on Tuesday next, and we will then see what criticism is made.

Will it be made in a manner that can be debated?

Yes. A Vote will be put down.

Will the arrangement be made after the charter is completed, so as to render discussion nugatory?

The hon. Member had better wait and see.

Can the hon. Gentleman say when the charter will be laid on the Table?

I had hoped that it was laid. I will do what I can to expedite it.

Will the deed of settlement, as part of the charter, be laid on the Table with the charter?

The hon. Gentleman will find that as full information as possible will be given.

Can the hon. Gentleman say what was the result of the discussions of the Board of Trade with the bankers? Did the bankers favourably receive the proposal and put up money in support of it?

The hon. Gentleman had better wait for my right hon. Friend's statement.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the resolutions passed by Chambers of Commerce and the Report of Lord Faringdon's Committee were directed towards the establishment of a trade bank for the purpose of granting financial facilities to British traders in general, and if the Charter recently granted has been granted not to a bank but to a trading corporation, which will presumably compete with other British traders instead of supporting them; if so, will he state whether it is the policy of the Government to charter and assist with Government influence a corporation trading abroad in competition with private firms and companies; and if diplomatists and consular officers or others paid out of public moneys will be expected or allowed to give greater facilities to such trading corporation than to any other British trading company or private firm which may be in competition with it?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I think that the question is based on a misunderstanding. The British Trade Corporation, to which a charter has recently been granted, has been formed in pursuance of the recommendations and to carry out the objects indicated in the Financial Facilities Committee's Report, which, I understand, were generally approved by chambers of commerce and the commercial community. The new institu- tion has received the title of "Corporation" instead of "Bank," because in providing financial facilities for trade its operations will have a wider scope than those usually associated with banks in this country, and it was thought undesirable to extend the use of the term "bank" to an institution which will undertake a different class of business from banking as generally understood in the United Kingdom. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

asked whether any arrangements have now been completed for the pooling of private traders' wagons in Scotland for the transport of coal?

No, Sir. The question whether any general pooling of private wagons is advisable is still under consideration.

COAL INDUSTRY (STATE CONTROL).

asked the Secretary to the Board of Trade whether the financial arrangements have yet been completed by the Coal Controller in connection with the State control and management of the coal industry; and if he can now state what terms have been settled with the coal owners?

The financial arrangements in connection with the control of coal mines have not yet been completed.

asked whether, in view of the fact that the Home Office have been able to provide free railway passes for conscientious objectors to visit their homes, the Board of Trade will now reconsider their decision to grant no facilities to the officers of merchant vessels engaged in transport and other national services connected with the War to visit their homes by the issue of passes at reduced fares or not subject to the 50 per cent. increase on normal fares?

The question whether any special facilities for travelling by railway can be gven to officers and men of the mercantile marine is at present receiving the careful consideration of the Board of Trade.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether these merchant officers who so gallantly serve their country are not at least worthy of as much consideration as the men who shirk their duty?

I think my hon. and learned Friend will realise from the nature of my reply that I gave the matter sympathetic consideration.

asked the Home Secretary whether the decision of the Home Office overruling that of the Advisory Committee in the case of Gloekler, the German dentist, was that of the Home Secretary in person, or of what official?

The hon. Member was informed, on the 26th March, that it is impossible, at this distance of time, to say whether the direction—that Gloekler should not for the time being be interned—was given by the Secretary of State personally, or by the Under-Secretary of State acting under his authority, but in any case the Secretary of State is responsible.

Did not the hon. Gentleman tell me ten days ago that a list was kept of a list of persons by whom the Orders of the Advisory Committee were overruled? In consequence of that I put down the question at his request.

There is a record kept of every decision arrived at, but there is not a complete record kept of every conversation that takes place with the Secretary of State.

asked how many alien enemies have been released from internment since he became Home Secretary, and for what reason they were released?

From 12th December, 1916, to 4th May, 687 enemy subjects have been released from internment. Of these, 658 were released on conditional licence to do work of national importance, chiefly agricultural work, sixteen to join the British or Allied Armies, and the other thirteen for special reasons.

asked whether J. Mock, of Regency House, Warwick Street, chiropodist, is an alien enemy; and whether he has been kept from internment owing to the representations of patients whose corns he cuts?

Mock is an Austrian subject, aged forty-one, who has been nineteen years in this country and has a British-born wife. He was exempted from internment on the recommendation of the Advisory Committee, made in accordance with their usual principles and not on the representations of his patients. The Secretary of State has recently made fresh inquiries about this man, but has found no reason for thinking it desirable to cancel his exemption.

asked whether there are still two female alien enemies appearing on the London music-hall stage who both have relatives, including in one case a husband, fighting against us; and, if so, whether they are permitted to visit prohibited areas and why they have not been deported?

The two persons to whom I understand the hon. Member refers are both technically of Austrian nationality, but one, according to my information, is a Pole, and the other is of Greek origin and is vouched for by the representatives of the Greek Provisional Government in this country. Both were exempted from repatriation on the advice of the Advisory Committee. I have no knowledge that they have relatives fighting against us, and I will be glad if the hon. Member will let me have the information in his possession on this point. They cannot visit prohibited areas without a special police permit.

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to a leading morning newspaper in London which announces that it retains in its service an enemy correspondent; and whether he proposes to take any action to prevent unauthorised communications with enemy countries?

I assume that my hon. Friend refers to the matter which was dealt with in the answer given on 26th February by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to my hon. Friend the Member for East Mayo, to which I have nothing to add as regards the first part of the question. As was stated by my right hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Home Affairs on 25th April, the correspondent referred to is interned. As regards the latter part, I have no reason to suppose that the rules of the censorship have been evaded. Postal communications to and from an enemy country through a neutral country are, of course, subject to censorship, but are not prohibited provided they are innocent.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the peril of Laon Cathedral and other historic monuments, he will appoint a small Committee to consider the introduction of special and specific punishment for further flagrant acts of vandalism upon the historic buildings of the world?

I do not think that the suggestion of my hon. and gallant Friend would be likely to obtain the result he desires.

As the Government seem to be averse to setting on fire historic buildings in Germany, will they consider the possibility seriously of bombing and setting on fire the Black Forest?

I doubt whether that would have the effect which my hon. Friend anticipates.

Are we to understand that all idea of reprisals has been definitely abandoned?

asked the Prime Minister whether, since the Freiburg reprisal raid, two further hospital ships have been torpedoed and a German aeroplane has killed civilians in London; and, if so, whether the Government proposes to take instant and severe reprisals for these acts?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part, I cannot at present make any statement.

asked the Prime Minister whether, considering the loss of life and property incurred in the East London and other explosions and the danger of similar explosions in future, he will introduce legislation placing factories which are the property of the Gov- ernment and factories in which the explosives dealt with are the property of the Government and held for the service of the Crown, under the provisions of the Explosives Act of 1875 and making that Act applicable to these factories in the same manner as to all other factories in the United Kingdom?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. It is not considered desirable to bring Government factories under the provisions of the Explosives Act. Many of the provisions would be inapplicable to Government factories. The conditions in these factories are carefully supervised from the point of view of safety and all practicable precautions are taken by the responsible authorities; and the assistance and advice of the Home Office inspectors are always available and are freely used.

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of requesting the War Office to refrain from flooding the market with the many thousands of motor cars for which no further military use will be found after the cessation of hostilities lest such an action would reduce the demand that will then arise for new cars, which demand is necessary to enable motor manufacturers to re-establish their business interrupted by munition work?

This matter is being carefully considered with a view to adopting the best method of disposing of Army mechanical transport vehicles after the War.

Are we to understand that consideration will be given to the manufacturers in this connection?

It is being given now.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that over 60,000 Serbian prisoners of war in Germany and Austria-Hungary are dependent for a weekly ration of bread upon the Serbian Relief Fund, acting through the Bureau de Secours at Berne; that during the last six weeks the Serbian Relief Fund has been obliged greatly to reduce its allowance owing to the fresh restrictions placed by the Allied Governments upon the importation of flour into Switzerland; and that the Commission which was established early this year by the French, British, and Russian Governments for the express purpose of meeting the need of the Serbian prisoners has been unable to do anything to remedy this state of affairs; and if he will say whether, inasmuch as the Serbian prisoners are in imminent danger of starvation if supplies are cut off, the Government will, in view of the urgency of the need, give immediate orders that 250 tons of flour per month shall be assigned to Switzerland for the use of the Serbian prisoners, as representing a minimum ration of one kilogramme per week per head?

In the Report of the Prisoners' Sub-Committee of the Serbian Relief Fund, dated 31st January, the number of Serbian prisoners of war in Germany and Austria-Hungary is stated to be nearly 57,500, and I have no doubt that these prisoners are largely dependent on the supply of bread from Berne. As far as I am aware, no restrictions have been placed on the importation of flour into Switzerland, but the shortage of flour in France had made it difficult for the French Government to continue to supply flour from their stocks. This has been explained to the Serbian Relief Fund. The Commission established in Paris has for its object the supervision and control of purchases of clothing, not food. With regard to the last part of the question, we are in communication with the Food Controller with regard to supplying flour for the Serbian section of the Bureau de Secours at Berne, and I understand that the matter is receiving his consideration.

asked if the Government proposed to allow the usual Whitsun holidays this year?

It is not proposed to interfere with the ordinary Whitsuntide holidays. It should be understood that this decision does not apply to such firms as may receive special intimation from any Government Departments with whom they hold contracts that it is essential that they should remain at work during any specified holiday period.

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government will have an immediate, independent, and searching inquiry made in order to ascertain whether a number of ships held up by the naval and military authorities are only partially employed, with a view to temporarily diverting them to transport food supplies for ourselves and our Allies?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. The employment of all ships employed by the naval and military authorities is under constant examination, and it is certainly not the case that, as suggested, a number of ships held up by the naval and military authorities are only partially employed. In view of the large number of ships in naval and military employment, however, it is quite possible that exceptional instances of waste occur from time to time, and, as I assume that my hon. Friend would not put down this question unless he knew of specific instances, I invite him to give me full details of them, in order that they may be remedied.

In consequence of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this question on the first possible occasion.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Admiralty has complete control over the movements of all mercantile vessels and authority to direct at what ports they may call and unload; and if he will say whether the authority exercised by the Ministry of Shipping in such matters is independent of or subject to the control of the Admiralty?

The Admiralty has no control over the ports of destination, though, of course, it does, where necessary, warn vessels of possible danger wherever that is practicable, and is in constant communication with the Ministry of Shipping to secure the safety of cargoes. In certain cases vessels are instructed to call for directions as to their further course. In the matter of determining such course the Admiralty's authority is complete.

Does that imply that vessels entering a port of call are quite free from control, as the right hon. Gentleman says that the Admiralty cannot dictate the destinations?

We certainly can warn as to possible danger, and, in common with the Shipping Controller, render all information and advice. But the port of destination is not a matter in our hands. All we can do is to give details as to the best course to pursue to arrive at a port.

asked the Prime Minister if His Majesty's Government, in concert with its Allies, has yet reconsidered the guarantees given to King Constantine of Greece; and whether they are now prepared to modify the neutral zone so as to permit the people of Thessaly to adhere to the Government of M. Venizelos if they should so desire?

I cannot make any statement on the subject at the present moment.

Will a statement be made on the subject during the private sitting this afternoon?

I will communicate the suggestion to my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister.

asked the Prime Minister why the Allied Governments have refused for over five months, in spite of repeated requests, to transfer to the Government of M. Venizelos the fleet of torpedo-boat destroyers taken over by them from the Government of Athens; whether three of these vessels have recently been so transferred; and if His Majesty's Government will favourably consider the advisability of dealing similarly with the seventeen vessels remaining in the hands of the Allies, with a view to increasing the prestige of the Entente party in Greece, ensuring the due policing of the Greek waters, and facilitating the flow of reinforcements for the Venizelist Army?

My hon. Friend must recollect that the supreme command of the Allied Fleets in the Eastern Mediterranean is not in British hands, and it does not therefore primarily rest with His Majesty's Government to deal with the points raised in this question. They will, however, be considered.

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the strong attitude of the leading Parisian newspapers on the Greek situation and to the impression conveyed by these journals that the British Government stands in the way of a definite and resolute policy in Greece and in connection with the Salonika Expedition; whether the time has now come for a full and clear public statement of the policy of the British Government on the situation in Greece and the Salonika Expedition; and whether he can now state why the King of Greece has been allowed for so long to carry on a policy of hostility to the Allied Governments and why the Provisional Government of M. Venizelos has not been fully recognised?

I am not aware of the facts stated in the first part of the question. I will consider the suggestion made in the second part. It would in any case be impossible to discuss the topics raised by the last part of the question adequately or fully in public.

Is it not the fact that the whole of the Balkan campaign has been imperilled by the protection given to King Constantine, and is not that protection given partly on account of his Royal relationships?

I have repeatedly told the hon. Member that the imputation contained in the last part of his remarks is absolutely untrue, and in my judgment is a very cowardly imputation.

I can quite afford to ignore the imputation—

That is not a question.

Is it not the fact that so long as the Government refuse to alter their policy in relation to Thessaly they are retaining the Army in Salonika in an unhealthy situation, and refusing to adopt a policy which would place it in possession of a healthy base for operations?

These and all other relevant measures have been considered in connection with this matter. I am sure that my hon. Friend will see that it is impossible to discuss it in public.

Are we to understand that it will be discussed in the Private Sitting?

Order, order!

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the reason for the delay on the part of the American Dollar Securities' Committee in delivering the definite Treasury Certificates for American or other securities which have been compulsorily lodged with them under penalty of additional Income Tax; if he is aware that Treasury Certificates for securities lodged as early as November, 1916, have not yet been received by the holders or their selected Government agent, and that, in consequence, depositors of securities below a nominal par value of $5,000, who have been compelled to deal through a Government agent, have been deprived of full and absolute control of even the temporary receipts which are of marketable and other value; and, if he considers the staff at his disposal inadequate to deal with this business expeditiously, will he state his reasons and have the same increased?

Special arrangements have been made for expediting the delivery of these certificates, which has been delayed by the heavy pressure of work and the necessity for dealing with more urgent business. I may point out that, pending the issue of the certificates, dealings can be effected on the provisional receipts. Moreover, securities deposited through agents can only be dealt in through the medium of the agent who holds the provisional receipt, and the delivery of certificates of deposit to the individual depositor does not vary this arrangement.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether His Majesty's Government will encourage the improvement of public-houses by relieving houses which reach an approved standard from the restrictions from which the Liquor Control Board has found it desirable to free its own houses; and whether, in the case of houses so improved, a substantial proportion of the Licence Duties will be remitted, thus relieving them from the liability to the compensation levy?

I am not aware what restrictions my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind, or, in the case of improved public-houses, in what way the remission of Licence Duty would bring about relief from liability to the compensation levy.

Is it not the fact that the Central Liquor Control Board have imposed upon their own houses a number of restrictions from which other houses are free?

I want notice of that question.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can now indicate when, either by legislation or otherwise, reforms in the practice of the Bank of England as to the treatment of Scottish interests will be introduced, in accordance with the petition of commercial and professional bodies in Scotland?

Since the conference which was held by the Secretary for Scotland in February, I have been in communication with the Bank of England with reference to the various suggestions which have been made for removing difficulties in connection with dealings in Government stock both by Scottish investors and otherwise. An announcement of the decisions arrived at will be made by the Bank in the course of the next few days. I am glad to be able to say that certain of the important points raised can be met at once administratively, but there are certain other matters in relation to which legislation is necessary, and which require further consideration.

asked what was the yield last year of the Excess Profits Duty levied upon co-operative societies?

No information is available as to the incidence of this tax in the case of the various classes of taxpayers, and, in view of the labour involved in the preparation of detailed statistics of this character, I cannot in existing con- ditions undertake a classification of the various groups of trades and businesses from which payments of Excess Profits Duty have been received.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will state the amount paid in respect of Excess Profits Duty and munitions levy combined by controlled firms up to 31st March, 1917; and what is the number of controlled firms liable to pay the munitions levy?

The amount which reached the Exchequer up to 31st March, 1917, from controlled establishments in respect of periods during which they were "controlled" was £4,620,000, and this sum was received in the form of munitions levy through the Ministry of Munitions. The number of controlled establishments on that date was 3,277.

Can the right hon. Gentleman state the number of firms, and what is the sum of money?

I require notice of that question.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Inland Revenue authorities have declined to recognise the proceeds of a fête organised by the Kingstown, county Dublin, Workmen's Club for the purposes of the club as exempt from the Entertainments Tax, although those purposes have been declared to be and have been charitable and philanthropic; and, if so, on what grounds?

I am informed by the Commissioners of Customs and Excise that on the facts as represented to them in this case they were unable to differentiate it from the case of any other club existing for the benefit of its own members, and giving an entertainment in aid of its own funds. They were not satisfied that the proceeds of the entertainment in question could be regarded as being devoted to philanthropic or charitable purposes within the meaning of the Act, and they were, therefore, unable to repay the Entertainments Tax. If, however, the hon. Member will furnish me with any particulars supporting the statement that the purposes of the club have been declared to be philanthropic and charitable, further inquiry will be made by the Board.

Is the right hon. Gentleman able to say what are the circumstances which deprived this club of the benefit given by the Act of Parliament?

The benefit has, never been given to any club. It is only to philanthropic or charitable bodies that it is given, and if the hon. Gentleman can show that this club is of that nature I will make inquiries.

The right hon. Gentleman surely ought to say what are the particular facts and circumstances which disentitle this club?

I think the burden of proof is on the other side.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will take an early opportunity of expressing his appreciation of the work that is being accomplished by a section of the Royal Naval Air Service in reducing the submarine peril in home waters; whether the greater the support and sympathy displayed by the senior naval officers in the work of the Royal Naval Air Service the greater is the measure of success achieved in that district; and, if so, whether he will impress on all senior naval officers the value of keeping their seaplane squadrons well posted with the latest information available of movements and sinkings?

The good work accomplished by the Royal Naval Air Service in locating and hunting enemy submarines is fully appreciated by the Admiralty, and receives frequent recognition. Full use is made of the seaplane squadrons by the senior naval officers in the various areas, and close cooperation with the patrol flotillas maintained.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether an enemy destroyer has been recently attacked by a machine of the Royal Naval Air Service; and, if so, whether this attack was successful, and to what extent?

Yes, Sir! The facts were made public in the official Admiralty communiqué of the 24th April.

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether the British Navy is supplied with seaplanes capable of discharging torpedoes; and whether this method of offence has been practised with success against the enemy's shipping?

Yes, Sir. This method of attack was first employed with success in August, 1915, by Royal Naval Air Service pilots, who sank several enemy supply ships in the Dardanelles.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the dredger by name "Leven" recently left a particular port; whether she has been sunk by the enemy or otherwise lost; and for what purpose did she leave the port?

The "Leven," dredger, left port on the 15th February to pick up an anchor lost by a vessel which had been torpedoed and subsequently salved. The crew had got hold of the chain of the anchor, when an explosion occurred on the starboard side forward and the dredger sank. It is presumed that the vessel was sunk by a mine.

Is it not the fact that this dredger, which was worth about £120,000, was sent out to a known danger zone to salve something worth £50?

I am not sure of the price, but I am perfectly sure it was not sent to a known danger zone.