asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the war aims of the Allies with regard to Turkey, Constantinople, and the Dardanelles have varied materially since the commencement of the War; and, if so, will he, jointly with the Allies, make an announcement on the subject, in order to encourage Turkey in her desire for a separate peace?

There is nothing I can usefully add at present to the public statements which have been made by responsible statesmen in the various Allied countries with regard to war aims.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs under what authority and system of government the conquered German colonies in Africa, the Pacific Ocean, and China are now administered?

I would refer the hon. Member to the replies given by the Prime Minister and the Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the hon. Member for Bethnal Green on 10th of June, 1916, and 17th July, 1916, respectively.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the German Consulate, post offices, banks, and commercial firms have yet been cleared out of the British concession at Shameen, in China, or not?

All official enemy institutions, such as Consulates, post offices, etc., have been closed throughout China and I presume, therefore, in the Shameen, though I have not heard definitely. With regard to banks and commercial houses established on the Shameen, the position is not clear, and inquiry will be made of His Majesty's Minister at Peking.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the United States' reply to the Pope's Note, published on 29th August, was due to consultation with the Allies or whether it was the individual reply of the United States' Government; and, if the latter is the case, whether the policy towards Germany expressed by the United States' reply is also the policy of His Majesty's Government?

The clear and powerful reply of President Wilson to the Pope's Note was not the result of any consultation with the Allies. I do not propose to comment on it in answer to a question.

Will the Allies Rend their own independent answer to the Pope or is no answer to the Pope intended?

If the hon. Member desires any further information, he had better put down a question.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if passports were issued for British delegates to attend a Catholic Conference at Granada; whether he is aware that delegates from enemy countries attended the Conference, and that amongst other business a resolution on the Pope's peace message was discussed and carried; and whether any conditions were attached to passports issued to British subjects?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. An invitation was issued by the Archbishop of Granada to the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster for Roman Catholic representatives to attend a Congress at Granada held to commemorate the tercentenary of the Spanish divine Suarez.

I have no information as to the other delegates who attended the Congress beyond the fact that I have been informed that one German missionary and two German professors from Madrid were present. When the passports were granted we were informed that the subjects for discussion at the Congress would all relate to the life and character of Suarez, but I understand that there was a discussion on the Pope's recent Note to the belligerent Powers. The delegates from this country absented themselves from the discussion. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that quantities of malt have been exported from the United Kingdom to Holland in the present year and that some quantity has also been exported to Denmark; if these exports have been sent with the sanction of the Foreign Office; and if it is intended to continue to licence malt to be exported to neutral countries adjacent to Germany?

asked the Prime Minister whether 8,000 tons of malt have lately been exported to Holland; whether malting here for Holland has gone on during the summer whilst it was stopped for this country; and why the dairy farmers of England have thus been deprived of 420,000 bushels of wet grains for their cattle?

The reply is that no malt has been exported this year from the British Empire to Holland, Denmark, Norway, or Sweden.

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the last part of my question?

No, Sir; as far as I know, there is no intention to licence any malt.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action has recently been taken by this country and by the Allies to prevent imports going into Holland; and for what reason are Dutch commercial cable messages prohibited?

In reply to the first part of this question, I would refer the hon. Member to the Order in Council of 29th September regarding the prohibition of exports to Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and the Netherlands, and to the recent embargoes imposed by the United States Government on exports to those countries. In reply to the last part of the question, as already announced in the Press, facilities for the transmission of Dutch commercial messages by British cables have for the present been withdrawn, pending the settlement of certain questions at issue between the two Governments.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to a Memorandum, dated 14th July, 1917, submitted to the Foreign Office by the British lawyers in Egypt on the subject of the legal reforms to be introduced into Egypt consequent upon the proposed abolition of the capitulations, and the further Memorandum submitted by one of the signatories now in England on the same subject, and his request to be heard by the Advisory Committee appointed by the Foreign Office to deal with this matter; whether it is proposed to allow the signatory in question to appear before the Advisory Committee; and what steps it is proposed to take in the matter?

A copy of the memorial by the British lawyers in Egypt which was addressed to the President of the Capitulations Commission has been received by the Foreign Office and is being studied. Individual communications have also been received from several British lawyers who are practising, or have practised, their professions in Egypt. The hon. Member may rest assured that His Majesty's Government are fully alive to the importance of the considerations which these gentlemen have set forth and that no decision will be arrived at without thorough investigation. The question as to the scope of the work of the Advisory Committee, and in particular the point whether the Committee shall be asked to hear witnesses, has not yet been determined.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that, in executing the recent order of the military authority to seize arms, the Donegal county inspector picketed the palace of the Lord Bishop of Raphoe and the residence of his administrator at 11 p.m. on Tuesday, the 14th August, and demanded from the latter the keys of the building where he, the inspector, thought arms were stored; that although he was informed who had the keys of the building the inspector would not wait till this man had brought the keys, but gave orders to break into the building, which was parochial property vested in the Lord Bishop, and to break two doors and locks; that ultimately no arms of any kind were discovered; that the inspector had been assured by Mr. Mahony, J.P., a responsible citizen of Letterkenny, that there were no arms in this building; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter, in view of the county inspector's actions on the night of the 14th August being marked by a want of common sense and tact?

This question was addressed to me in August, and I replied on 31st August by letter to the hon. Member in the following terms:

"Police were not picketed at the residence of the Bishop of Raphoe and of his Administrator as stated in the question. The county inspector called on the Administrator who gave the names of some persons who he thought might have the keys of the institute. One of these, Mr. Mahony, when interviewed by the county inspector, refused to come to the institute, but stated the arms were not there. The caretaker, who was then approached, denied that he had the keys, and the police entered the institute by raising an unfastened ground floor window. The caretaker thereupon produced the key and opened the front door. The doors of an inner room had to be forced, but little damage was done. There were stands for arms in the room, but they were found to be empty, the arms evidently having been removed. The Chief Secretary would greatly regret that any discourtesy should be shown by any servant of the Crown in the performance of his duty, but he is informed and believes that the county inspector acted with consideration, and he sees no ground in the above facts for the statement that the action of the county inspector was marked by a want of common sense and tact."

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland (1) whether, in view of the fact that many applicants for labourers' cottages under pending schemes in Ireland are still residing in hovels condemned as unsanitary and unfit for human habitation, steps will be immediately taken to enable district councils to proceed with that part of the various schemes providing houses for the applicants living in condemned habita- tions; (2) whether, having regard to the necessity of increased food production, steps will be taken to enable the rural district councils in Ireland to acquire the lands comprised in the pending labourers' schemes and allot the same amongst the various applicants for tillage?

I cannot add anything to the answers given to questions on these subjects by the hon. Member for East Limerick on the 26th July and the 9th August.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether Major Price is still drawng his salary as county inspector of Carlow; what time Major Price spent in Carlow in discharge of his duties as county inspector; the total amount of salary paid Major Price as county inspector since his appointment; and whether, in addition to his salary, Major Price has been paid the usual allowances made to county inspectors for servants and upkeep of horses or vehicles?

Major Price draws pay as a Royal Irish Constabulary officer, but receives no pay from the military authorities. The pay drawn since he became a county inspector amounts to £870 19s. 4d. He draws allowances for lodging and a servant, which are recouped from Army funds, but he receives no allowance for horse or vehicle. He has not performed any police duty as county inspector of county Carlow.

Does he receive an allowance for his servant?

Yes, I said so.

Is it not a fact that he has no servant at all?

I have not the least idea.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether compulsory military service has now been brought into force in Hong Kong; whether it is limited to any particular period; and, if so, for what reason?

I learnt from the Governor by telegraph on the 21st of August that a Bill imposing compulsory military service had been introduced in the Legislative Council. I have not yet heard whether the Bill has been passed into law, nor to what period compulsory service under it is limited.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether a site was recently granted in Palace Yard for the erection of a statue of President Lincoln; whether he has received a protest from America against the proposed monumental statue; whether before granting the site any artistic authorities were consulted; and what action he proposes to take?

My predecessor in office, Lord Beauchamp, offered a site in the Canning Enclosure for a statue of President Lincoln, which His Majesty's Government have consented to accept from the American Centenary Committee. Having accepted the offer and provided a site, it is not the duty of the Government to question the artistic selection of the donors. No protest from America has been received by me. I need hardly add that His Majesty's Government and the country will warmly welcome a representation worthy of this illustrious American statesman in the capital of the Empire.

What is the procedure before the erection of a statue takes place; is this House consulted?

No.

Are we to understand that this proposal, which has had a great deal of opposition and criticism both in this country and in America, is proceeding without any delay or without any reconsideration?

I think my answer shows that, having accepted the offer from America, and having granted the site, it is not the duty of myself or the Government to criticise or to act as arbiters of what statue worthily represents President Lincoln.

Has any definite statue been accepted yet?

I am not aware what statue is definitely going to be put up.

Why should not this House be consulted?

It has been the practice, I understand, in the past in any question of the erection of a statue, that the selection of the site has been with the office of the Chief Commissioner of Works.

Is that the reason why they are all of high artistic merit?

Do we understand that if the First Commissioner grants the site for a statue, no one has any control over the particular statue to be erected for all time in the Metropolis?

The right hon. Gentleman should give notice of that question.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will take steps to prohibit the export of milk from Ireland?

The Food Controller has power to take such action as the hon. Member suggests, and I have communicated the suggestion to him.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a milk famine in Ireland at the present moment, and that it is almost impossible for the poor people in the towns and cities of Ireland to get milk?

That is an exaggerated view of the matter so far as my knowledge goes. I have taken a good deal of pains to ascertain the facts, and I do not think that that represents the state of the case at all accurately. Prices are high undoubtedly, and there is difficulty on the part of the poorer classes in Dublin in obtaining supplies. In respect of that difficulty, I am in communication with the local authorities and others with a view to avoiding the difficulty.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Public Health Committee of the Dublin Corporation have advertised for milk and cannot obtain any, because it is coming to this country at very fancy prices?

No, Sir, I do not think the condition of the milk supply in Dublin is affected substantially by any export of milk to this country. It arises from a totally different cause.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food, why, in view of the expressed policy of the Ministry and of the Board of Agriculture to secure adequate supplies of whole milk during the coming winter for the large centres of population rather than for condenseries, the proposed additional ½d. per gallon for the producers and sellers of milk for that purpose was not embodied in the final Milk Order lately issued; and what were the representations, and by whom were they made, which led to the abandonment of the above proposal?

A proposal of the nature described in the first part of the question was considered in framing the Milk Prices Order with a view to preventing the diversion of an undue amount of milk to factories. It appears, however, not to be the most satisfactory means of securing the object in view, and it might have involved risk of interfering with necessary supplies of condensed milk for the Army and Navy. The Food Controller will take other steps to secure the object in view.

Can the hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question?

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put a question down. I am not connected with the Department, and I have answered the question on behalf of my hon. Friend.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if, in view of the present shortage of sugar and the impending shortage of milk during the coming winter, he will state what is the average weekly tonnage of sugar and milk, respectively, used by the foreign company, the Nestlé and Anglo-Swiss Condensed Milk Company at their factories in the United Kingdom in the production of condensed milk, etc.; and what proportion of these products are exported by the company for purposes other than those of the Navy, Army, and populations of Allied countries?

I am making inquiries with reference to the points raised in the question, and will convey the information to the hon. Member so soon as I have received it.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food, whether his attention has been drawn to the appeal recently issued by the Director of Food Economy to the public to make as much use of potatoes as possible in order to conserve breadstuffs; if he can state the market price of potatoes at the date when the Potatoes Order, 1917, was issued; whether under the Order potatoes can only be sold at £6 per ton, which represents nearly double the price of potatoes on 16th September when the Order was issued; and whether the Food Controller will take immediate steps to see that potatoes are sold at their market value in order to encourage their consumption instead of penalising consumers by charging them nearly twice the market price, thereby reducing the demand for them as a wholesome substitute for bread?

The appeal referred to in the first part of the question was issued at the Food Controller's request. The market price of potatoes at the date when the Potatoes Order, 1917, was issued naturally varied in different parts of the United Kingdom, but was as a rule between £5 10s. and £6 per ton—that is to say, approximately the price fixed by the Order. This Order was made to carry out the guarantee given by the Prime Minister in this House on the 23rd February last. There are other ways of encouraging the consumption of potatoes with the object of saving bread and other foodstuffs than by allowing market prices to drop to a level which would not yield a reasonable return to the producer, and the Food Controller does not propose to repudiate the guarantee given by the Prime Minister, the object of which was to stimulate production by securing a price to the grower which would adequately cover the unusually heavy cost of growing potatoes this year.

May I ask my hon. Friend whether he is aware that the farmers in the North of Scotland are keenly desirous of selling their potatoes At £3 10s. a ton, and that if they cannot do so the potatoes will be thrown into the North Sea?

I am not aware of that fact, but I will convey the information given by the hon. Member to the Food Controller.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the artificially high price of potatoes is decreasing the consumption of potatoes and increasing the consumption of bread?

That may very well be true. I have read the answer supplied to me, and I will convey the information to the Food Controller.

Will the hon. Gentleman also suggest, as a way of getting rid of this difficulty, that each farmer should be allowed to sell at any price he likes?

Will the hon. Member convey his suggestions to the Department by letter?

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland when the county wage boards under the Corn Production Act will hold their first sitting in Queen's County?

The Agricultural Wages Board for Ireland is taking the necessary steps for the establishment of district wages boards, but I cannot name a date with regard to any county. Meantime and pending the establishment of the district boards steps have been taken for bringing rates of minimum wages into general operation.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say by whom the chairmen of these boards will be appointed?

I cannot remember at the moment. If the hon. Member will put down a question I shall be able to give him an accurate reply.

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) the average price paid for beef by Army buyers during the month of September; whether the price has been equal to that fixed by the Food Controller, and, if not, will he say why; and the number and names of the Army buyers for each county, and the numbers of cattle purchased and prices paid in the several counties?

This information is not in my possession, the purchases in question being purchases on behalf of the military authorities.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether licences for the importation of Australian wines are being withheld whilst the wines of foreign countries are being freely admitted?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. Licences for Australian wines are being freely granted to importers to the extent of one-half of the quantity imported on the average during the years 1911, 1912 and 1913. This basis is more favourable to Australia than any other country, with one or two exceptions, in which very special conditions prevail.

Would it not be better to import Australian wheat rather than Australian wines?

What countries are the exception and are more favourably treated than our own Colonies and Dominions?

There are special conditions in regard to France and Portugal, who are our allies, and in consequence of that special conditions prevail.

Are there any great wine-producing countries which really could be differentiated in favour of as against the Dominions?

Yes, but they are enemies at present.

Could not the space given to wines be better used for food?

I am sorry I did not hear the hon. Member's question.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, seeing that Mr. Laszlo is a British subject, why he was interned instead of being put upon his trial for whatever offence he may have committed?

asked the Home Secretary whether Mr. Philip Alexius Laszlo de Lombos, member of the Victorian Order, has been interned; whether Mr. de Lombos is a British subject; what is the reason for the internment; and whether he has been allowed to lay his case before the Advisory Committee?

There was no legal evidence on which Mr. Laszlo could have been convicted of any criminal offence. If there had been such evidence, he would have been prosecuted. But there was, in my opinion, grave reason for suspecting that he was engaged in activities which might prove dangerous to the public safety, and as he is a person of hostile origin, I made an Order for his internment under Regulation 14B of the Defence of the Realm Regulations. His case is at present under consideration by the Advisory Committee, in accordance with that Regulation.

Who is the neutral Minister who forwarded the letter from Mr. Laszlo?

I had better make no statement till I see the Report.

Has Mr. Laszlo been allowed to be represented by counsel before the Advisory Committee, whereas as a rule no counsel is allowed to appear there?

No; I understand the Committee followed its usual procedure, and has not heard counsel for Mr. Laszlo, although counsel were in an adjoining room and could be consulted by him.

Who were the eminent people who gave evidence on this gentleman's behalf and which members of the War Cabinet?

I have not a list of all the witnesses yet.

Will the Report of the Advisory Committee be published in due course?

No; that is not the practice.

In view of the fact that this person enjoyed consideration, and is well known in high social circles, is it not very unfortunate that the public should not be made aware of the nature of the case against him?

That is a question of opinion.

asked the Home Secretary if, in view of the Bolo disclosures in Paris, he has any official information showing whether the Pacifist campaign in this country is being conducted from tainted sources?

I have no official information on this subject to communicate to the House.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a Mr. R. J. Reuter, who registered as a Finn and who before the War was an importer of German eau de Cologne, who is married to a German wife said to be in sympathy with the King's enemies, and who has a brother in the German Navy, resides within half a mile of Brooklands Aerodrome; and what steps the Government proposes to take in the matter?

The person in question is a native of Finland and possessed Russian nationality when he became natuarlised as a British subject in 1904. The facts as to his residence are, I understand, as stated, and the case has engaged the attention of the proper authorities, but no facts calling for action have come to knowledge. If my hon. and gallant Friend has any evidence in support of the other statements in the question, I shall be glad to have it for investigation.

asked the Home Secretary whether Herr Max von Rapp, an Austrian subject, and late manager of the Deutsche Bank London Agency, is still residing in close proximity to Brooklands Aerodrome; if he can state whether the duties of this gentleman, whose services it is understood were retained in connection with the winding up of the affairs of the Deutsche Bank, are approaching completion; and whether it is the intention of the Government to allow this alien enemy to remain at large or to intern him?

This man is living at Weybridge, where he has resided for twenty-four out of the twenty-eight years that he has been in this country. He is sixty-one years of age and was exempted from repatriation on the recommendation of the Advisory Committee. I am informed by the official supervisor of the Deutsche Bank that his services are still essential for the winding up of the affairs of the bank.

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether Henry Randall, of the London Emery Works, is connected with Heinrich Buchholz, who opened up trade with British firms as the London Emery Company?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I am informed that Mr. Henry Randall, who agreed to purchase the business of the London Emery Works, married an English lady, whose sister is the wife of Heinrich Buchholz. I am also informed that Heinrich Buchholz was employed in a subordinate position by the London Emery Works during some part of the years 1906 and 1907.

Was he a German or was he not?

I assume that he was.

Then why was this man employed?

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now prepared, in view of the recent number of night air raids, to issue instructions that some form of warning shall be given in London and adjoining districts on air raids after dark, similar to the warnings which are now given for daylight raids?

I recognise the necessity of giving warning in London when a night air raid is impending. I am informed that on the occasion of the recent raids, thanks to the warnings given by the police and to the sound of the anti-aircraft artillery (which was heard some time before the arrival of the raiders), London as a whole received effective warning; but the system of police warnings is being daily improved and extended, and every effort will be made to secure that the warning shall be as effective as possible.

I am advised that the sound bombs, which were instituted for the purpose of giving warning by day, are not suitable for use at night; but if it should prove impossible to give an effective warning without the use of these bombs, they will be used.

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been drawn to the action of the Bermondsey Borough Council, which is exhibiting blue and red lights on its public buildings to show whether raids are coming or not, whether that has the approval of the Home Secretary, and, if so. will he advise other local authorities in London to do the same thing?

If any local authority thinks supplemental warnings of that kind are useful there is not the least objection to their using them, but I hope they will not use these warnings until the "Take cover" notice is given, so as to avoid needless alarms.

If the right hon. Gentleman approves of local authorities doing this kind of thing by coloured lights, would it not be very much better if he issued an order so that the whole thing is under the control of the local authority?

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that at West Ham, as soon as raid warnings are given, green lights are displayed in various parts of the borough, and within ten minutes every street is cleared?

Has there been any change in the "All clear" signal?

I understand that the "All clear" signal is going to be given by bugle.

asked the Minister of Munitions whether he will set up a Committee charged with the duty of keeping a record of all money, machinery, buildings, land, and concessions made to firms engaged in the manufacture of war material, considering the possibility of adapting machinery, plant, and other contributions made by Government to the post-war industries of the firms concerned, estimating the value of such adaptation, and taking this value in shares in the firms on behalf of a trust for the endowment of education, of scientific research in the interest of industry, and of schemes for the betterment of industrial workers?

A record of the nature indicated in the first part of my hon. and gallant Friend's question is kept. As regards the second part of the question, a strong Committee was set up within the Ministry by my right hon. Friend's predecessor to consider, among other post-war problems the extent to which munitions factories and plants could be adapted to commercial purposes. The last part of the question, does not concern the Ministry of Munitions, and should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Minister for Reconstruction.

asked the Minister of Munitions whether he has any evidence that the direct and indirect aid given by Government for the erection, repair, and adaptation of factories is being used by the firms concerned with an eye to post-war manufacturing activities; and, if so, whether delay and unnecessary cost are resulting, to the prejudice of the immediate requirements of the War?

There is no evidence that Government aid is being improperly used. The possibility of any factory being eventually utilised for peace purposes has not been, and cannot be, overlooked; it is taken into account in the adjustment of the contribution, if any, which the State may make towards the capital cost. But in no case are considerations of the post-war use of the factory and plant allowed to interfere with the immediate war requirements.

asked the Minister of Munitions whether builders of locomotive engines in this country have not been allowed to undertake contracts for the manufacture of locomotives?

Orders for locomotives have been placed with locomotive builders wherever it has been found possible to do so without interfering with the supply of other essential war material. I shall be glad to investigate any particular case which my hon. and gallant Friend may have in mind, if he will be good enough to communicate with ma on the subject.

asked the Minister of Munitions whether his attention has been called to the fact that the completed material for 45 engines has been lying idle on the premises of Messrs. Beyer, Peacock, and Company, Limited, Gorton Foundry, Manchester, since 1914; whether the Ministry of Munitions has issued instructions preventing the firm from completing the erection of these locomotives; and, in view of the shortage of engines, what steps he proposes to take in the matter?

asked the Undersecretary of State for War whether, in view of the shortage of locomotives, his attention has been called to the fact that the complete material of 45 engines has been lying on the premises of Messrs. Beyer, Peacock, and Company, Limited, Gorton Foundry, Manchester, since 1914; whether he is aware that some of these locomotives are partially built; and whether any representations have been made to the Minister of Munitions with regard to the prohibition which his Department has issued against the erection and completion of these locomotives?

Owing to the urgent need for guns and other munitions of war, in the production of which the firm referred to in my hon and gallant Friend's question are fully occupied, it has not been found possible to allow them to complete the construction of these engines. Arrangements are now in progress by which the material for twenty of these engines will be taken over by one of the railway companies for completion, and proposals for dealing with the remaining twenty-five other engines are under consideration.

asked the Minister of Munitions whether he is now in a position to state what arrangements have been made for granting railway facilities at reduced rates to Army reserve munition workers to visit their families?

My right hon. Friend has arranged that Army reserve munition workers who are working away from their homes in accordance with the terms of their enrolment, will in the future receive free railway warrants to and from their homes at any general trade holiday.

asked the Home Secretary why he has refused the application of the taxi-cab owners of London for increased charges on the present mileage fares, and why he has offered an increase only on the first mile run by the car, which will be very unfair to the short distance passenger; and whether, in view of the inconvenience to London if taxi-cabs are withdrawn from the streets, he can see his way to have the dispute settled by arbitration or any other method?

The taxi-cab owners some time since alleged that they were losing money on their cabs, and asked for an addition to the fares of 4d. for each hiring. This application was opposed by the drivers, who did not consider that any increase of fares was necessary, and urged that they would in many cases be deprived of their customary tip of 4d. upon an 8d. fare.

I had several interviews with representatives of both parties, and, as no agreement could be reached, I suggested a reference to a Board of Conciliation, who would hear both sides and advise me. This proposal was accepted by the owners, but was rejected by the drivers. It, therefore, became necessary for me to ascertain the trading position of the proprietors under existing conditions; and, for this purpose, I requested Sir William Plender to inspect the books of the company owning the largest number of cabs upon the streets. Upon receiving his report, I decided that a case had been made out for the proposed increase of 4d. upon each hiring, and on the 21st September I informed the proprietors and drivers that I was prepared to make an Order to that effect.

Up to that date no mention had been made of an increase of 50 per cent. in fares, but shortly afterwards both proprietors and drivers shifted their ground and came to me with a demand that all fares should be raised 50 per cent. They added, that if this increase were conceded, the proprietors had agreed, in addition to allowing the drivers a share of the increase, to supply them with free petrol.

I have very carefully considered this demand, and I can find no justification for imposing upon the cab-using public a burden of some £300,000 or £400,000 per annum beyond the amount necessary to cover the increased cost of working. It is my duty to protect the public from anything in the nature of profiteering, and I cannot regard this proposal in any other light.

I am inclined to think that a war bonus of 6d. per hiring would more than cover the increased cost of working of which the proprietors complain, and I have offered to sanction that charge. It is true that the bonus would be felt more by the short-distance passenger, but, on the other hand, persons who frequently take cabs for short rides are generally well able to shoulder the extra burden. The offer has been refused, and has been met by a threat to withdraw the cabs from the streets unless the full increase of 50 per cent. is conceded. I am not disposed to yield to such a threat, or to renew an offer of arbitration which has already been declined, and I am confident that the House will support me in my action, which is taken for the protection of the public.

asked the Home Secretary whether he has any information showing that letters come and go to the conscientious objectors at Dartmoor conveying instructions for plans of bloodshed; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take?

No, Sir. I have no such information.

Did the right hon. Gentleman see the statement in the "Times" from the Bishop of Exeter, and are we to understand that so far as the Home Office is concerned there is no information on the point?

I do not think the question on the Paper reflects any statement contained in the letter of the Bishop of Exeter.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Government is likely to recognise the inadvisability of concentrating at Princetown those who amongst conscientious objectors are disposed to plot against the true interests of the nation?

That very point is being considered to-day.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the laxity of the Regulations governing the detention of the conscientious objectors at Princetown; whether he is aware that these men are given considerable licence with respect to opportunities for spreading pacific and restricting doctrines; that every advantage is taken of these opportunities; and will he say what steps, if any, he proposes to take in the matter?

I do not think the Regulations as recently revised can be described as lax. They forbid all public propaganda and all attendance at public meetings, and I believe that the Committee having charge of the matter do all that is possible to enforce the rules.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these men at Princetown edit and publish a journal or news-sheet for the publication of their views? Is that with the authority of the Government?

I will inquire. I have not seen the publication.

asked the Prime Minister why the first list of Empire Honours was confined to persons in the United Kingdom who had rendered special war services, and those who had rendered equally meritorious services to the Empire in the Dominions and India were left over for a deferred list; and whether, in the interests of Imperial unity, he proposes to take any action in the matter?

The consultation with the Dominions and India had not been completed in time to enable a joint list for the United Kingdom, the Dominions, and India to appear last August. The question of issuing further lists, in which the names of those who have rendered war service in the Dominions and India will be included, is now receiving consideration.

Would it not have been more prudent to delay the announcement of the names honoured until a complete Imperial list was completed, instead of announcing Empire honours in sections?

The matter was carefully considered. As the hon. Member knows, the number is very large, and it was not thought advisable to delay the announcements.

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that soldiers who are serving at the front get their distinctions before any other people?

I think we are all agreed that they are those who have the greatest claim, but the time at which they are given does not actually arise.

asked the Prime Minister when he will give an opportunity to the House of Commons to place on record its gratitude to the Armies of the Empire for the heroism displayed by them in the successive victories which have been won for the cause of the Allies since the start of the great offensive in July, 1916?

It is intended that a Resolution on his subject should be moved by the Prime Minister on Monday week. The terms of the Resolution will be placed on the Paper in a day or two.

asked (1) the total number of prisoners captured by the British Armies on the Western Front since the beginning of July, 1916; what is the total number of guns captured in the same period; and what are the total prisoners and guns captured on all fronts by the British Armies in the War; (2) the total mileage of the territory recovered from, the enemy by British Armies since 1st July, 1916?

A full statement giving information on these and on other points will be made very shortly.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in the interests of religion generally, the Government will take the necessary steps, in agreement with our Allies, to disavow any negotiations for terms of peace, either by secret diplomacy, pourparlers, or other methods, made by or through the Vatican, its priests or agents, or any other religious denominations; and whether he is aware of the mistrust and anxiety that has arisen throughout the country from the recent action of the Vatican in this connection and the danger that would threaten all forms of religion if it were thought that the Church of Rome was endeavouring to influence this or any other representative Government of the people to enter into negotiations for any premature peace?

No negotiations of the sort have taken place.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the disquieting rumours that gained currency during the Recess that negotiations of that sort were going on, and is he aware that the object of my question is to make it publicly known that that was not the case?

I am obliged to my hon. Friend for putting the question, and I am glad to have an opportunity of dispelling any such rumours.

asked whether the British Government has officially announced that it has adopted as its own reply to the Pope's Note the reply sent by the United States?

The answer is in the negative.

Is the Government intending to send a reply on behalf of the British Government?

I think the hon. Member had better put down a question.

asked whether the question of the introduction of special legislation to deal with foreign companies trading in the United Kingdom, whose shares are in the form of share warrants to bearer, has now been considered; and whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce such legislation during the present Session?

The Prime Minister has asked me to answer this question. The point referred to is under consideration, but I am not at present prepared to make any statement as to the expediency of legislation of the nature suggested.

As the number of these companies trading in the United Kingdom may increase after the War, can the hon. Gentleman say when it is likely that a decision will be come to?

Very shortly, I think.

asked whether the three Liquor Commissions appointed to consider the terms of purchase of the liquor trade have yet completed their inquiries; when it is expected that their Reports will be issued; and whether an opportunity will be given to the House of Commons to consider the Reports of the Commissioners before any action in the matter is taken by the Government?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I understand that the English Committee are now settling their Report, but that the work of the Scottish and Irish Committees is not so far advanced. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that owing to the lack of private means many junior officers with families have been forced to incur debts; if he can now state when he will be able to announce the additions to the pay and allowances of junior officers promised by him; whether separation allowances to married officers are in contemplation; and from what retrospective date it is proposed that these concessions shall have effect?

This subject is being considered by a Committee of the Cabinet, and I hope soon to be in a position to make a statement on the subject.

asked the Prime Minister if he will lay upon the Table of the House the official Report of the inquiry into the loss of His Majesty's Ship "Hampshire"?

The answer is in the negative.

Can the right hon. Gentleman indicate the direction in which the publication of this Report after sixteen months' interval can be of any advantage to the enemy?

The Government— wisely, I think—decided not to publish the report of an inquiry in any such case, and I see no reason for making a distinction in this case.

I give notice that I shall raise this question on the adjournment on Monday evening.

asked what arrangements have been made for the control and production of petrol and petroleum products; how many Departments and how many Committees are at present engaged in dealing with this question; and what steps have been taken to build up a reserve of petrol and petroleum products in this country?

The Prime Minister has asked me to answer this question.

In order to co-ordinate the work of the various Government Departments interested in petroleum, a small executive department has been formed which is known as the Petroleum Executive. The detailed control of petrol, in so far as the Services are concerned, is in the hands of each Department, and I have made arrangements for the staff of my Executive to co-ordinate the control. The detailed control of civil supplies is handled by the Petrol Control Department, working under the Board of Trade.

The importation of petroleum products is dealt with by the Pool Board, consisting of members of the importing companies, with a chairman nominated by the Government. The home production of petroleum products is entrusted to the Ministry of Munitions. Besides my Executive Committee and the Pool Board there is only one committee dealing with matters in connection with petroleum.

It would not be in accordance with the national interests to state precisely what steps are being taken to build up a reserve of petroleum products in this country, but I can assure the House that the matter is receiving constant attention.

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the name of the members of the Committees who are dealing with petroleum?

I will send the hon. Member a copy of the names.

In the event of the supply of coal being in question, will the Minister of Munitions or the Coal Controller have authority in the matter?

I am dealing with petroleum and not with coal.

asked whether a meeting is going to take place between the Allied Governments for the purpose of defining their War aims, as desired by the Russian Government; who will be the representatives of this country; and whether the decisions of the Conference be published to the Allied peoples?

Yes, Sir. Such a meeting will, I believe, take place; but no further statements about it are at the present moment possible or desirable.

asked why no dispatch has been published giving details of the battle of Gaza and of the operations which led up to and followed that battle; and why no details are published of military operations in Greece and Macedonia?

asked when dispatches will be published recording the operations of the British forces at Salonika and in Palestine?

A dispatch from General Milne, dated 1st October, dealing with the operations at Salonika has just been received at the War Office and will be published as soon as possible. A dispatch has also been received from General Sir Archibald Murray dealing with the operations on the Palestine frontier up to the date on which he relinquished the command, but this has been temporarily withheld from publication on the advice of the Chief of the Imperial General Staff, as its publication at the present time might supply the enemy with, valuable information. I may remind the House that we are the only nation engaged in the present War which publishes dispatches from commanders in the field. The conditions of present-day warfare, which were not contemplated when the practice of issuing dispatches was established, make it necessary occasionally to delay publication for purely military reasons.

As regards the latter part of question No. 58, I may add that communiqués dealing with the operations in Greece and Macedonia in which British troops are engaged are issued regularly whenever there is anything to report. My hon. Friend may rest assured that no operations have taken place which have not been dealt with in communiqués.

Was not the battle of Gaza announced more than six months ago; and is there any other parallel case for withholding a dispatch for such a long period?

I cannot say offhand whether there is any other parallel case. I am content to abide by the decision of the Chief of the General Staff.

Can the publication of information be made by the Press through news supplied by Press correspondents with these forces at Gaza and Salonika?

I do not think that it would be either right or competent to publish anything beyond the official announcements.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that it is being said that the delay in publishing the dispatches in reference to Gaza are due to the fact that the battle was announced as a great victory?

I am not aware that such insinuations have been made, but I am convinced that the reason given in the answer which I have read is the true one.

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to set up a Ministry of Health without further delay; and, if so, why this course is not to be taken?

The proposal of a Ministry of Health is under careful consideration; at present the various difficulties needing to be provided for in the establishment of such a Ministry have not reached any widely agreed solution, and so long as this is so it is not possible to undertake to introduce a Bill for the purpose. Steps are, however, being taken which will, it is hoped, secure substantial agreement amongst those who are actively engaged in the work of national health.

If substantial agreement cannot be arrived at before the end of this Session, will the right hon. Gentleman give the House the opportunity of discussing this most important subject?

Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a question towards the end of the Session, and I shall be glad to answer it.

asked the Prime Minister (1) whether the Government is prepared to co-operate with the Governments of the oversea Dominions in financially assisting the settlement on the lands of the Dominions those British and Irish sailors and soldiers who have served in the War, and including their wives and children, who may desire to migrate and settle on the lands of the oversea Dominions; (2) whether the Government has decided to accept, and at once act on, the recommendations lately made to it by the Empire Settlement Committee of which Lord Tennyson was the chairman; and whether, in view of the undesirability of any delay, he will say why so little has been done up to the present time; (3) whether British and Irish men who have served in the War and who decide to migrate to Australia or any other of the overseas Dominions in order to settle on the land will receive equal privileges and be settled on the land under the same conditions as those service men who came from the Dominions; and whether the settlement of British and Irish service men on the lands of the Commonwealth is subject to the financial co-operation of the Home Government?

The proposals of the Committee, over which Lord Tennyson presided, for the establishment of a Central Emigration Authority, necessarily involve amendment of the existing law. The question of new legislation is under consideration, and His Majesty's Government hope to be in a position to announce their policy within the next few weeks. As regards the Report of the Committee generally, it has been communicated to the Oversea Governments, and their comments on it have been invited.

In view of the statement of the Prime Minister on 5th March that there was no time to lose in reference to the settlement after the War which would affect the destinies of all classes for some generations to come, would the right hon. Gentleman say why the Government have only begun to provide land for 240 persons?

The hon. Member must give notice of that question.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that British and Irish troops suffering from lung trouble are not at present allowed to settle in the Dominions, and that there are considerable numbers of these troops suffering from lung trouble caused by service during the War from gas attacks, and in view of the fact that the Ministry of Pensions have stated their inability to do anything to enable these men to go to and reside in a dry climate, as declared to be necessary by medical officers to prevent the development of tuberculosis, he can say whether the Government will apply to the Dominion Governments for areas of land in their countries to be set apart for the purpose of settling these men in a dry climate and so saving their lives for the Empire?

The points suggested in my hon. Friend's question are being considered.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that speeches in favour of an inconclusive peace are still being made in many parts of the country, and anti-patriotic literature against the strenuous prosecution of the War is still being distributed to soldiers and others, and in view of the fact that America, France, and Italy have decided to stop similar proceedings in their countries, he can now give an assurance that the police will have instructions to confiscate all literature against the prosecution of the War, and to prosecute all speakers advocating an inconclusive premature peace as being a discouragement to our fighting men and disastrous to the future prosperity and security of our own people and of our Allies?

This matter receives continuous attention, and when the law is broken proceedings are at once taken. I cannot give the hon. and gallant Member the general assurance for which he asks, but he may be assured that I am as anxious as he himself is to prevent any discouragement to our troops being caused by mischievous or unpatriotic speeches or literature.

The right hon. Gentleman is perfectly aware that this has been and is going on. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I sent him a letter showing how very bad it was?

I can only enforce the law, and I always do so.

Is it not a fact that these people can do just as they like? There was the meeting the other day at the Brotherhood Church. [HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"]

Would it not be better to take these administrative measures against journals like the "National Review" and the "Morning Post," extracts from which are distributed in Germany to stiffen the resistance of the people, and to show that they are fighting for their existence?

Before this question is answered, may I ask why a question which was addressed to the Prime Minister has been relegated to the non-oral list?

I have not the remotest idea, except that I suppose it has not got a star before it.

It was on the Paper yesterday as a starred question.