asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has now received and considered the Report of Mr. Lockhart on his experiences in Russia; for how long was Mr. Lockhart in prison in Russia; and whether any charge was made against him to justify his imprisonment?

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

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has now considered the Soviet constitution adopted in July last as the Russian form of social democracy; whether the question has been discussed, or a decision taken, as to the need of suppressing this Soviet form of government so as to make the world secure for democracy; and whether it is at the wish or instigation of the Foreign Office or of any foreign (Allied) Power that copies of Lenin's pamphlet of exposition, which has no reference to the War or terms of peace, have been suppressed and confiscated?

I have seen a summary of the "Constitution" referred to as it appeared in the Russian Press. The answer to the two last parts of the question is in the negative.

Is the Noble Lord aware that complete and authorised copies of this contribution are being sold in large numbers, and will he procure a copy for the benefit of the Foreign Office?

I said I had seen a copy.

I think the Noble Lord said he had only seen a summary. That is very different from a full report, and is it not best to have the complete words?

As a matter of fact, the word here is "summary," but the document I have seen appeared to me to be a complete copy.

asked the Prime Minister whether any discussion has taken place between the Allies co-operating in the Murmansk, Archangel, and Vladivostok (Siberian) expeditions as to the objectives to be gained; and whether these expeditions will be actively pressed by all the Powers taking part even if a cessation of hostilities ensues on the Western Front?

This is a kind of question which I must decline to answer.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury what is the total amount of our monthly liabilities for the pay and allowances of Russian ex-officers or men?

I understand that the question refers to the Russian force co-operating with the Allies in North Russia. My hon. and gallant Friend will, I am sure, realise that I cannot publish the figures for which he asks without disclosing the strength of the force in question. I shall be happy to give him such information as I have privately, if he so desires.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether proposals have been made to British communities in China and Japan, or either of them, that they should undertake the foundation of British schools abroad, the formation of a patriotic league, the formation of chambers of commerce, to encourage any other institution tending to produce a spirit of solidarity between British subjects abroad, and the dissemination of commercial and political propaganda; if he will state what is the policy underlying such proposals; what expense, if any, in connection therewith it is contemplated should fall on the British Exchequer; and whether similar proposals have been made to other British communities abroad?

No concrete proposals such as those referred to in the first part of the question have been made. His Majesty's representatives in all countries abroad have been requested to give their views on these and other similar proposals, but no definite scheme has yet been formulated.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the case of Private G. H. Parsons, No. 372,502, Post Office Rifles, who, after being severely wounded in the left arm at Bullecourt in May, 1917, was a patient in the Dublin and Brighton Hospitals till the 12th March, 1918; whether he is aware that, on discharge from hospital, he was classified B 2, afterwards transferred to the Royal Army Medical Corps and then to a Labour unit, and found in each case unfit for service; that he was sent by the regimental medical officer to the discharge centre, Aldershot, with a recommendation that he be discharged; that, notwithstanding this record, he was declared fit for service overseas and sent home on draft leave; that, although attention had been drawn to the case by the hon. Member for Merioneth, the soldier was sent overseas; that, on landing in France, he was examined by a medical officer who referred the case to a medical board; and that such board found Parsons to be unfit, ordered him to hospital at Boulogne, and, after two days, sent him back to England; whether he is aware that he is now at the 2nd Western General Hospital, Manchester; and what action it is proposed to take to inquire into the conduct of the officers who were responsible for sending this soldier abroad and their fitness for the duties of their office?

I regret that my inquiries in this case, which necessitated reference to the military authorities in France, are not yet complete. As I informed my hon. Friend on Tuesday last, I will write to him as soon as possible.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether any system has been attempted by his Department whereby older men, say, over forty-two years of age, who have served for two or three years on any of the fronts and have, in many instances, sons serving also there, should be given home jobs, while younger men with easy home posts should be given the opportunity of serving abroad; and, if so, will he say for what reason such system broke down, with the result that home posts are very unequally divided?

The system suggested by my hon. Friend is already the policy of the War Office. The arrangements are of course governed by the number and quality of men at home available for replacement, and in the present state of man-power there are very few. If my hon. Friend is aware of any specific cases of men being retained at home who could be utilised as is suggested I shall be happy to have such cases investigated.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War what arrangements have now been made for the relief of time-expired Royal Army Medical Corps officers who have been retained in India since the commencement of the War and have had no opportunity of service at the front?

Twenty-four officers have been sent to India in relief of a similar number time-expired, and two are awaiting passage. Until the relieved officers return home it is impossible to spare further officers for the purpose, as the system involves the loss of the services of the officers for a period of two to three months.

How many more officers are there that will have to be relieved?

I cannot very well say offhand. If the hon. and gallant Member will put down a question I will endeavour to give him an answer.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can state how many recommendations have now been received from general officers concerned for the grant of a brevet-colonelcy to lieutenant-colonels commanding Special Reserve Battalions in consideration of the good services rendered by these officers in training drafts, etc., during the last four years; and what action it is proposed to take in the matter?

I am unable to state the number of recommendations made to the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Great Britain, but such recommendations as have been submitted to the Army Council have already been dealt with. Further recommendations are expected from the General Officers Commanding-in-Chief in Great Britain and Ireland, and they will be considered by the Army Council in connection with the next New Year's "Gazette." As I stated in reply to a question by my hon. and gallant Friend on the 8th August last, the Army Council are fully aware of the good services rendered by these officers, and full consideration is being given to the due recognition of such services.

"Have been dealt with." Does that mean that they have been given commissions or only considered?

I think considered; but if my recollection is correct, they have been given promotions.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if men acting as agricultural substitutes are being paid 31s. a week, but all allowances to their wives and children have been stopped; whether he is aware that it is impossible for a high rent to be paid and the family to live without much hardship; and whether he will continue some allowance to the wives in addition to the minimum agricultural wage?

The men in question receive the full civil rate for agricultural labourers. Their position is, however, being made the subject of careful consideration.

When does the hon. Gentleman hope to announce a decision?

I hope a definite conclusion will be reached shortly.

Could not the hon. Gentleman see his way to enable this class of men to be released entirely and go back to agricultural work?

That is one of the elements of the problem which is being considered.

Is my hon. Friend aware that I wrote to him a month ago giving him a specific case and he has not yet answered my letter?

I am very sorry that that should be so. I always endeavour to reply to correspondence and if I have failed in this case it is due to an oversight and not to any want of courtesy. Where we are dealing with individual cases we very often have to make inquiries, which take time.

I do not feel that there is any blame attaching to my hon. Friend. I am sure he is always courteous. But did he not receive a letter from me this week drawing his attention to three letters which had not been replied to?

Yes; I think I did.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that, owing to the calling up of certain expert workmen in the Yorkshire woollen district, quantities of khaki greatcoat cloth are waiting to be milled, that machinery is standing idle for lack of labour, and that, in consequence of this, large deliveries of greatcoat cloth are in arrear which are urgently required for the clothing of our troops; and whether he will secure the return to their work of the 100 or so men whose work would immediately enable the Army's needs to be met?

The War Office is aware of the position as stated in the question and has already arranged with the Ministry of National Service to suspend recruiting of woollen operatives. At the same time the Army Council has under consideration the question of the reinforcement of the trade by the release of men from the Army.

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he will state the number of discharged soldiers who have been placed on military tribunals, and which tribunals they are serving on?

Complete information cannot be furnished without considerable inquiry, but my right hon. Friend is aware of several cases where discharged soldiers or sailors have recently been appointed to tribunals, namely: Harrogate Borough, Bridlington Borough, Eastbourne Borough, Blore Heath Rural, Blyth Urban, Market Drayton Rural, Poplar Borough, Epsom Urban, Lincolnshire Appeal Tribunal, Gravesend Borough (sailor), Acton Urban, Coventry Borough, and St. Albans Borough.

asked the Minister of National Service if he will take immediate steps to see that officers and men who have served overseas are included in the composition of all National Service tribunals?

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the replies given to the hon. and gallant Member for Dulwich on the 9th July last and to-day. Proposals to add discharged members of the forces to tribunals in any particular cases will receive my right hon. Friend's sympathetic consideration, but he has no evidence to show that general action in the matter is needed.

May I ask if the hon. Gentleman appreciates the point of the question, namely, that ex-Service men who have served overseas should be included in the tribunals?

I think the answer I have given does show that they have this particular point in mind, and that they have acted on it in a great many tribunals. There may be others in addition to those I have enumerated, and that, therefore, no general action in this particular direction is needed.

asked the Minister of National Service whether, in view of the improved war situation, he will refrain from calling to the Colours time-expired discharged soldiers and sailors above the age of forty-five, so long as they are engaged on work of national importance?

I regret that my answer to this question was handed in on Wednesday last, and appeared in the OFFICIAL REPORT of that date. I will however, repeat it.

As I informed the hon. and gallant Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme on Thursday, the 17th instant, I am unaware of any ground for relaxing our effort to maintain our forces at full strength. I might, however, refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answers given by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of National Service on 24th June to the hon. Member for Peckham, and on 8th July to the hon. Member for Tavistock.

May I ask whether he ought not to take into the Army all the people not on work of national importance and who have not served in the Army before he takes men who have served in the Army?

I think there must be some misunderstanding. The question of a man being left in civil life is determined by his value to the nation in civil life. If men have served in the Army, as many of those men have, in years gone by, it is not in the national interest that they should be left out if they are doing unimportant work.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private Herbert James Flack (121, Durham Road, White Hart Lane, Tottenham), now attached to 27 Labour Co. No. 476915, formerly No. 2242, 19th Middlesex Regiment, who was discharged in 1914, and joined up again on April 22, 1915, and has served in France since August 1, 1916, has lost one eye and that the other is very seriously affected so that he is almost blind and cannot see at all at night, that he has also a compound fracture of the leg which unfits him for active service, that he has seven children at home, one of whom is paralysed; and whether he is aware that this man is under orders to leave for France on Wednesday, and what action under these circumstances he proposes to take?

Instructions have been issued that Private Flack should not be sent overseas pending a further medical examination, which will be arranged as soon as possible.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he will give the number of German, Austrian, and Turkish prisoners of war held by us; and whether he will state how many of them are employed in the country on agriculture and the number doing other work of national importance and the character of that work?

I am informed by the military authorities that there are in this country 97,060 German, I Turkish, and 1,387 Austrian combatant prisoners. It is impossible to give the exact figures of the prisoners held by us at this moment abroad; but as I said yesterday the total number taken, according to the latest returns, is 327,416. Of these 264,242 are Germans, and the great majority of the remainder are Turks.

All the combatant prisoners in this country whom it is possible to put to work are employed on work of national importance, such as agriculture, road-making, quarrying, timber cutting, and the like.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether commandants of internment camps for German officer prisoners of war are permitted to impose any punishments on those officers for breaches of discipline, disobedience to the regulations, or any other offences; whether the only process by which punishment can be imposed in such cases is to report them to the headquarters of the command and to obtain the appointment of a military court of five members to try each individual case; whether, in order to maintain the discipline of the camp and the authority of the commandant, he will empower the commandant to impose minor punishments, such as fourteen days' confinement, on offending German officers as is done in the case of offending German privates and non-commissioned officers; and whether he will state what is the practice adopted in these matters in Germany in internment camps for British officer prisoners of war?

Under Article 8 of the Hague Convention, 1909, prisoners of war are subject to the laws and regulations in force in the Army of the State in the power of which they are. The result is that German officers who are prisoners of war in this country are dealt with in accordance with our military code, and are tried by court-martial, while British officers who are prisoners of war in Germany may, under the German code, be punished within certain limits without court-martial. I have inquired whether it is possible and desirable so to alter our military regulations as to permit of a German officer being punished by the Commandant alone for minor offences; but I am informed by the War Office that there would be great difficulty in making this change, and that in fact the necessity for a court-martial causes very little delay and makes no difference in the punishment awarded.

In view of the fact that the Germans have persistently violated all the material provisions of the Hague Convention, is there any reason why we should show this undue leniency to German officers when guilty of indiscipline and breach of regulations when they do not show us any similar leniency in their country?

There is no leniency at all. German officers suffer just the same punishment. They have to await trial under arrest.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware there are many restrictions that can be enforced upon British officers without trial, and cannot restrictions on liberty be applied to German officers in the same way?

Certainly, Sir! And restrictions are applied to German officers.

In view of the fact that Germans violate all the provisions of the Hague Convention, why should we adhere to a provision which protects German officers from the consequence of their action?

I have just said it does not protect them in the least.

asked the Home Secretary whether German officer prisoners of war in internment camps in this country are permitted to purchase at the canteen wine and spirits and in what quantities; and whether, in view of the difficulties which our own soldiers and civilians in this country experience in obtaining even small quantities of wine or spirits, he will forbid the purchase of these articles by German officer prisoners of war?

Officers who are prisoners of war in this country are allowed to purchase light wines to a limited amount if procurable from the canteen managers but not spirits. The question of forbidding the purchase of wine will shortly come under consideration.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what in his opinion is a "limited extent" to buying wine?

May I ask my right hon. Friend how much wine are these prisoners allowed to buy, and is it a fact that they have sometimes been found drunk?

I am informed half a bottle a day. Our prisoners in Germany are allowed to purchase without limit.

Will the civil population in England be allowed to purchase that amount? I cannot get it for my household.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he is aware there are many small traders in Ireland who cannot get half a bottle in six months?

asked the Home Secretary whether there is any limit on the amount of money which German officer prisoners of war in this country are permitted to spend on food and clothing; and, if so, what is the limit?

German officer prisoners of war in this country are limited in the amount of food and clothing which they may purchase. As regards food, a scale has been laid down, of which I will send my hon. and learned Friend a copy. As regards clothing, the instructions are that no prisoner of war shall be allowed to purchase more clothing than is required for actual use.

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the amount in money?

I do not think the limit can be expressed in money.

As this is a matter of some interest to people in this country who are short of food and clothing, can my right hon. Friend circulate with the Votes the maximum amount of money which they may spend on food and the amount of money they may spend on clothing, and who is the judge of the necessity?

I have just said there is no money limit, but I will certainly, if the hon. Gentleman wishes it, circulate the full scale.

asked the Prime Minister if, in view of the period which has elapsed before any definite action has been taken for the protection of British prisoners of war, he will arrange for definite representation on the Departmental Committee who deal with this question of the prisoners who have now returned to this country and who have first-hand knowledge of the subject?

The Prime Minister has asked me to reply. I cannot admit the statement by which this question is introduced, but I am considering the suggestion which it contains.

Does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman think that great advantage might accrue to the Departmental Committee by placing before it some of those who have been prisoners of war and have returned; would the right hon. Gentleman consider the case of my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for South Antrim (Captain C. Craig), who has just returned?

I think the suggestion may be a good one, and I am giving it careful consideration. As a matter of fact, I have asked my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for South Antrim to sit on the Committee, but he has not yet seen his way to do so.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the whole scheme for constructing a motor repair depot at Cippenham is being proceeded with; and, if so, whether he will explain why this is being done, in view of the recommendation of the Select Committee on Expenditure to the effect that it should be finished in sections?

In accordance with the recommendation of the Select Committee, labour is being concentrated on the completion of certain buildings only, but particular services, such as ran and road communications, which are necessary for the whole or any part of the scheme must necessarily be proceeded with.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he will state the names of the civil and military-experts who considered the offer of motor firms to undertake the repair of a large number of motors at a quarter the cost of the Government scheme at Cippenham; and will he give the date of their decision?

The offer of the motor firms referred to was considered by the expert officers of the Directorate of Supplies and Transport at the War Office and also by the Mechanical Transport Board. Many officials gave the matter close consideration. Nothing would be gained by publishing their names. The matter was considered during July last and a decision was reached towards the end of the month.

Was there anybody at these conferences representing the Treasury or any Department whatsoever that had regard to public economy?

We all have regard to economy.

Is it a fact that a large number of motor manufacturers offered to repair these cars at a quarter of the cost which will be entailed at Cippenham?

I do not think so.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he will state in what capacities Mr. S. H. Schneider and Mr. F. C. Bovenschen are now employed at the War Office; and in what particular respects these gentlemen are indispensable; and whether he will make special inquiries to ascertain whether their places could be taken by wounded officers who have served at the front?

Both these gentlemen are employed in civil administrative positions calling for the display of capacities which can only be acquired by long War Office training such as they have had. As has been already said by my right hon. Friend the Minister of National Service, a special Committee appointed for the purpose of inquiring into such cases have approved the retention of Mr. Bovenschen and Mr. Schneider, and I am not prepared to reopen the question.

When did that special Committee report, and can the right hon. Gentleman tell us in what sense these gentlemen were indispensable?

This Committee reported some time ago, and my right hon. Friend the Minister for National Service stated in the House that they came to the conclusion—and they were altogether apart from the War Office—that the work these men were doing was indispensable.

Does my right hon. Friend suggest that no British-born subject was capable of doing these men's work?

Both these gentlemen are British born, and I should like to point out that they have great experience. One is a double first class, and he has been for many years in a responsible position in the War Office. It is true their names are an impediment, but there it is.

Are there no wounded officers who have come back from the front, who could take the places of these civilian gentlemen?

I do not think that any wounded officers back from the front could possibly have the experience of these two men, who have been doing most admirable work for years at the War Office.

Can my right hon. Friend say, as a result of the Committee to which he has referred, if there have been any resignations from the War Office?

I cannot say, because I have no information, but if my right hon. Friend will put down a question—

Is this Committee presided over by Mr. Justice Bankes?

It is a Committee to consider the indispensability of certain members on the civil administration side of the War Office. These two men were considered. I understand one of the names will be considered by the Bankes' Committee.

What is the nature of the work these two gentlemen are performing?

I cannot say offhand what work they are engaged in. I know Mr. Bovenschen is at the head of one of our most difficult finance branches, and I can personally say no man could perform the work he is doing with greater ability.

Which case is coming under the consideration of Mr. Justice Bankes' Committee?

I think it is that of Mr. Bovenschen.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War how many decorations of the Serbian White Eagle were asked for by His Majesty's Government; and how many of these were awarded to officers and men who had seen active service in the Balkans?

I am afraid I do not quite understand the first part of my hon. Friend's question. In no circumstances are decorations solicited from an Allied country. His Majesty the King of Serbia has conferred on members of the Army 424 decorations of the various classes of the Serbian Order of the White Eagle. Of this total, 145 awards have been made to officers and men who have served, or are still serving, in the Balkans.

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise what a great injustice this is to our fighting men that three-fourths of these honours are given to men who sit at home?

As far as I can make out, only thirty-five were given to men who were serving at home.

Is it not a fact that the first issue of these orders was received for the most part by officers serving on the Staff in Cairo who had then never seen Serbia at all?

Were any of these decorations conferred upon a battalion of the Connaught Rangers who has done very good service?

I assent to what the hon. Member says, that the battalion in question did extraordinarily good service, but I cannot possibly say at present whether any distinctions were given to them or not.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether a general promotion list for officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps, Territorial Force, has now been prepared and published; and whether he will state the authorised establishment of colonels, lieutenant-colonels and majors in that force, and the existing number in each rank?

In accordance with the recommendations of the Committee on Promotion of Officers in the Special Reserve, New Armies, and Territorial Force, a seniority list has been prepared for all officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorial Force) other than the administrative and à la suite staffs of Territorial Force General Hospitals and the Sanitary Service. This list is included in the Army List. The establishment authorised is— and the existing numbers of officers of these ranks are—

IS it contemplated to take early steps to complete the establishment of colonels and lieutenant colonels?

I believe so.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the difference in pay, allowances, and gratuities between contract officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps and officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorial Force); and whether these two services can be placed upon an equality in these respects?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he will consider the question of increasing the pay of Territorial Royal Army Medical Corps officers, who are in a worse position, as regards pay, than both the temporary-commissioned officers and the Regular Royal Army Medical Corps officers?

I can add nothing to my reply to a similar question on 21st February last, of which I am sending copies to my hon. Friends.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether leave can be granted to Driver T. W. Wealthdale, No. 612,246, 1/1 Notts Royal Horse Artillery, at present serving in Palestine, who has served overseas for over 3½ years without once obtaining leave?

I would refer my noble Friend to the answers I gave to questions which he asked on the 17th and 21st October. I am afraid I cannot take any special action in the case mentioned, but, as I have already stated, every endeavour is made to ensure that all men are considered in turn for a period of leave.

Is it not a fact that the Mesopotamia Force is the only force which does not give any home leave?

The Mesopotamia Force does not give any home leave at all at present.

Are not facilities given to the men of the Palestine Force to come home if the commanding officer would only allow the men to come?

We have a great many of these men home now, but the difficulties of transport are so enormous that it is quite impossible to give leave to all.

Did not the right hon. Gentleman say in answer to a question lately that transport facilities were available

In certain theatres of war, certainly.

Could the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that if conditions should alter in the Mediterranean the earliest opportunity will be taken of increasing the transport facilities and removing this very justifiable grievance?

I quite agree that it is a grievance, but, after all said and done, leave is a question of privilege and not of right. I can assure the House that we at the War Office are anxious that men should get reasonable leave, and general officers commanding are themselves anxious that men should go.

Has my hon. Friend ascertained yet whether every man has had at least a week?

No!

Is it not the case that officers get leave in greater proportion than they are entitled to?

No. I saw the other day an officer who has been away three years without leave.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he will cause inquiries to be made into the case of J. Hull, Eign Hill, Tupsley, Hereford, a veteran aged ninety-one years, who served in the 44th Foot, and who has only a pension of 7s. per week and an old age pension to support him?

I will make inquiry into the case to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, and communicate with him when I have done so.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War (1) whether he is aware that the Government of the United States has recently increased the pensions of all the old soldiers of the Republic who have attained the age of sixty-two years by a substantial amount to meet the increase in the cost of living; whether it is the intention of the Government of the United Kingdom to act similarly towards ex-Service veterans in this country; (2) whether he is aware of the effect upon the veterans of the Crimean, Indian Mutiny, and China war by the recent increase of the cost of living and the amount of their pensions; is he aware that the majority of these men are endeavouring with their wives to exist on a pension of 1s. per diem and an old age pension of 7s. 6d. weekly or else on an old age pension alone; and whether, in order that these veterans should not be allowed to end their lives in hardship or dependent on charity, he will endeavour to obtain from the Treasury an immediate war bonus or increase of pension to meet their necessities?

My hon. and gallant Friend is no doubt aware that an increase of 2s. 6d. has been made to old age pensioners during the War, and that the campaign pensions of Army veterans have been similarly increased between the ages of sixty-five and seventy. As regards any further extension, I would refer him to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Blackpool on the 22nd inst.

Have these increased pensions been paid yet?

I think so. If the hon. and gallant Gentleman will put down a question I will inquire.

Is my hon. Friend aware that the answer of the Chancellor of the Exchequer was quite unsatisfactory?

How can the hon. Gentleman give consideration to the increased cost of living in the case of old age pensions and not in the case of the Service pension referred to in this question?

That is a question which should be addressed to the Chancellor of the Excheqer. That is the specific point with which he dealt.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the War Office will arrange with the Ministry of Pensions that the cases of all ex-Service men, whether pensioners or non-pensioners, who may be in need of help should be investigated and reported on by the local war pensions committees so that temporary help may be given where needful?

I think my hon. and gallant Friend may rely upon the Minister of Pensions to see that local war pensions committees render all assistance in their power to any ex-soldier whose case may be brought to their notice.

Have the local pensions committees actual instructions to look into these cases that come before them?

I should hardly think they wanted any instructions.

asked the Pensions Minister whether he has received a subscription from the Prince of Wales's Fund for his King's Fund; and, if so, how much, and on what conditions?

A subscription of £25,000 has been received from the Prince of Wales's Fund. No condition is attached to the gift.

By what authority is that made?

It was made by the trustees of the Prince of Wales's Fund.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the Prince of Wales's Fund was gathered for civilian distress at the outbreak of the War, and has this House no control of the expenditure of that money?

I have nothing whatever to do with the control or management of the Prince of Wales's Fund.

Was this subscription from the Prince of Wales's Fund given voluntarily?

I think the King's Fund asked for it.

asked the Pensions Minister what increases he proposes on pensions; and whether the House will have an opportunity of discussing such increases before or after they are determined?

I cannot yet make any announcement on this matter, which is still under consideration.

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman avoid the necessity of asking these questions by telling us when he is likely to make an announcement?

I think at an early date.

Before the General Election?

asked the Pensions Minister if he will state the definition adopted by his Department of the phrase "unaccustomed to work" when applied to childless wives?

A childless wife is regarded as unaccustomed to work if she has not been accustomed to work in the past.

May I ask my hon. and gallant Friend if he is aware that this definition "unaccustomed to work" is in the new circular issued by his own Ministry, and whether the definition of "unaccustomed to work" means that the woman has been unaccustomed to do work out of her home or whether it applies to a woman who has been unaccustomed to work in her home; and whether he is aware it involves the question of an addition of 6s. 6d. to her separation allowance? Will he tell the House something a woman will understand if we cannot?

I am quite aware it appears in the circular, but I think anybody can understand the definition I gave.

I will raise this to-night on the Adjournment so that the women of this country may understand what they can apply for.

asked the Pensions Minister whether he can now state what the war bonus on existing pension scales is to be?

The answer is in the negative.

asked whether any decision has yet been arrived at with respect to raising the pensions of officers disabled in former wars to the level of those disabled in this War?

Any concession in this direction would have to be limited to the particular classes of case included in the recent Warrants for men, and it is believed that few officers would benefit under these terms, as with wounds pensions their former grants were generally not less liberal than at present. In the circumstances I do not think it is necessary to take up the question.

Do I understand from that that this increase is to be granted?

No; the point of view is that as there really would be no practical benefit it is not worth going into the question.

Where there is benefit will they have the opportunity of getting it?

That will certainly be considered.

asked the Pensions Minister whether he proposes to raise the pensions of the widows of officers killed in former wars to the level of the rates now in vogue for the widows of officers killed in this War?

The pensions of the widows of officers killed in former wars are, to a great extent, already on a level with present war pensions, no general revision of the scale for officers' widows having been found necessary to meet the circumstances of the present War. In this case, however, of certain of the smaller pensions the question of an increase is under consideration.

Will they receive an education grant, the same as in this War?

I must have notice of that question.

asked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that there are only two surviving officers who were totally blinded in the South fact that the pensions granted them after that war were less than the pensions granted for this War, and, in addition, liable to Income Tax, he will consider placing them on the tame footing as officers totally blinded in this War?

In the only case of which I know the officer is receiving as much in pension as he would under the Regulations for the present War. If the hon. and gallant Member will give me the names of the two officers he has in mind, I will consider whether special consideration should be given to them.

asked the Prime Minister whether, now that increased allowances have been granted to the wives, children, and dependants of non-commissioned officers and men, any further provision is to be made for the wives, children, and dependants of officers?

This matter has been referred to the Cabinet Committee.

asked the Home Secretary whether Herr August Siegel, the German agent who has been employed in the Scottish coal mines, is now at large or whether he has been interned; if the question of his repatriation has been considered; and, if so, what, decision has been arrived at?

The enemy alien referred to has been recommended for repatriation by the Scottish Advisory Committee and would have left with the last repatriation party from Scotland but for the fact that he was ill and unable to travel. He is now fit to move, and will be repatriated by the next available boat. I may add that no evidence has been laid before me which would indicate that the man is a German agent.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he has studied carefully the statement and the speeches that have been made by this truly British subject Mr. Siegel, and that under the circumstances—if he has looked into this—does he find the state of things is likely to lead to efficiency of work in the Scottish mines, and has his repatriation taken place in consequence of his—

Order! Order! Speech!

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the prosecution, under the Defence of the Realm Act Regulation 27, of Robert Slater, newsagent, Preston, for placing outside his shop a chalked board stating that the Germans confessed defeat and accepted President Wilson's terms, and that the War was as good as over; whether he is aware that the Chief Constable of Preston stated at this trial that if people wanted to disseminate any information they should go to him for it, that he was responsible for the government of the town, and did not ask for the assistance of newspaper agents or theatres: whether this prosecution was authorised by the Home Office; and, if so, whether he proposes taking any action in respect of it?

I understand that this prosecution was commenced on the authority of the Chief Constable, but was withdrawn upon the facts being explained. The Chief Constable informs me that the statements attributed to him in the question do not correctly represent what he said. The authority of the Home Office for the prosecution was not asked nor was it required, and I do not propose to take any action in the matter.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the Commissioner of Police is stopping cabs from working in London as unfit for public use because they are not fitted with a steel-studded tyre on one of the front wheels although steel-studded tyres are not procurable owing to the requirements of the Government; and whether, seeing that a rubber non-skidding tyre is more efficient in the case of skidding and in order to keep the cab service of London as efficient as possible, he will permit a rubber non-skid to be used on the front wheel in place of a steel-studded tyre?

The Commissioner of Police informs me that only studded tyres have passed the tests for preventing or limiting side slip, and his tests have shown that no type of non-studded tyre is really effective for that purpose. In view, however, of the present shortage of studded tyres, he is prepared to sanction the use of a rubber non-skid tyre on the front wheel in place of a studded one until the latter type is again available in sufficient quantities.

asked the Home Secretary whether he will state the object and results of the raid made on 10th October when the police removed from the offices of the "Women's Dreadnought," in Fleet Street, a new duplicating machine costing £24 and unused paper value £6; whether any charge has been brought against the owners; and if not, whether this property will now be returned?

The police made a search at the office of the "Women's Dreadnought" on 10th October in consequence of information that circulars containing untrue statements were being issued from that office. The information proved to be correct, and the duplicating machine and some paper headed "Russian People's Information Bureau" were seized in accordance with No. 51 of the Defence of the Realm Regulations. The question of destroying the articles under the authority of the regulation has been referred to the Advisory Committee.

Were these searches and seizures made because it was feared that the paper would be used against the Government in the coming General Election?

No, Sir. That is a ridiculous suggestion.

asked the Pensions Minister what provision is made for ex-officers who wish to take training in technical and other subjects; and what is the scale of allowances for such training?

Provision is made for this purpose under Article 7 of the Royal Warrant of 1st August, 1917, of which I am sending the Noble Lord a copy. There is no prescribed scale of allowances.

Can my hon. and gallant Friend say whether this training allowance is sufficient for a married man?

I think so, because the pension, or rather, retired pay, is put up to the highest scale.

Is it the fact that the Pensions Ministry have not yet trained a single officer?

No, it is not the fact.

asked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that F. P. Storr, late No. 18025, 7th Lincolnshire Regiment, was unable to follow his employment in agriculture for twenty-one weeks owing to the delay in dealing with his artificial leg, which was sent back for repair; and whether he will consider the payment of compensation to Storr in respect of wages lost during this time?

The delay in dealing with the repair of Private Storr's artificial limb is regretted. Inquiries show that the Ministry is not wholly responsible for the delay, but my right hon. Friend will consider the payment of allowances in respect of the period of unemployment.

asked the Pensions Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the case of a discharged soldier who has been sent by the Denbighshire local war pensions com to Aberystwyth College for training as a teacher under a scheme in existence at the college for training discharged soldiers; whether he is aware that his Department have refused to sanction the allowances to cover the cost of clothing and maintenance during the college vacation being paid by the committee; will he state the reason for this refusal; and whether, in view of the fact that the training of the man in question is likely to make him a valuable servant of the country, he will now sanction the expenditure incurred?

I hope that under an arrangement recently concluded, which will apply generally to discharged soldiers admitted to the training colleges of the Board of Education, it will be possible for this man to be granted an allowance sufficient, with his pension, to give him £1 a week. As he will only have to keep himself during the vacation this should enable him to take the course.

May we take it that this arrangement will be made at once, so that this man's training may not be interrupted?

I understand that this arrangement is to come into operation immediately.

asked the Prime Minister whether he has received a communication from the Festiniog Urban District Council on the subject of leaseholds; and whether legislation dealing with the question will be introduced at an early date?

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government have decided to promote legislation to give relief to leaseholders who are being called upon to make good repairs and dilapidations under war conditions; and, if so, if this Bill will be introduced at an early date?

The communication referred to in the first part of the question by the hon. Member for Merionethshire has been received. I cannot add anything to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Dartford on 22nd October.

Is there any chance of an early Report? A number of unscrupulous people are buying up small properties and as soon as they get hold of them are sending in exorbitant demands for dilapidations?

I recognise it is a serious question, but it is difficult to deal with. As I said on the last occasion, a Bill is in course of being drafted, but for lack of time it has not yet been considered by the Cabinet; it is hoped to consider it shortly.