asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is prepared to exempt from Income Tax war gratuities given to officers, non-commissioned officers, and men; and will he at once take steps to ensure that result?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider the removal of the Income Tax on disability pensions for a period of at least one year following the signing of peace?

I would refer my hon. Friends to the reply which I gave to similar questions this afternoon.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the effect of the Income Tax laws with regard to double taxation within the Empire, the Government will during the present Session take the necessary legislative action to redeem the promise made by his predecessor to the House to remove such injustice?

As has been stated on previous occasions, this is one of the subjects calling for examination by the Commission of Inquiry into the Income Tax which will be set up as early as possible.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether any steps are being taken towards making a reciprocal arrangement as regards Excess Profits Duty between the United Kingdom and Southern Rhodesia and whether persons liable to Income Tax in this country who are also liable to pay Income Tax in Rhodesia will receive the same relief as is extended to persons similarly liable to pay double Income Tax in respect of income accruing elsewhere within the British Empire?

My right hon. Friend is advised that owing to an oversight the provisions of Section 23 of the Finance Act 1917 relating to the making of reciprocal arrangements for purposes of Excess Profits Duty were not made applicable to the case of Southern Rhodesia. He is proposing to introduce in the forthcoming Finance Bill the necessary legislation, with retrospective effect, to bring that, territory within the scope of the Section. The Income Tax position is similar, and it is proposed to deal with it at the same time.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether, in view of the Income Tax assessment on sewers in Scotland, he will take steps to allow local authorities to retain tax deducted from interest on sewer loans in the same manner as is done on loans for gas, water, and other undertakings where these are assessed on the basis of profit?

The position as regards sewers in Scotland is precisely the same as the position with regard to all non-productive property in the ownership of corporation and other local authorities Income Tax is deductible from payments of interest by such authorities, and falls to be paid over to the Revenue except to the extent to which such interest is in fart paid out of income which has already borne tax. The authorities are not, however, entitled to retain for their own use tax deducted by them from the interest equivalent to the amount of the Income Tax paid in respect of sewers or other non-productive property. The law on this point was clearly defined by a decision of the House of Lords in March, 1907, in the case of the Attorney-General v. the London County Council, and it is, of course, of general application.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will state the amount of the average daily national expenditure during the twelve weeks ended 9th November last, and the amount of the average daily national expenditure during the subsequent twelve weeks?

The average daily Exchequer issues have been for the twelve weeks ending 9th November last, £6,970,450, and for the twelve weeks ending 1st February, £6,738,151. The first period includes approximately £20,000,000 in respect of the October dividends on National War Bonds, etc., and the second period approximately £50,000,000 in respect of the December dividends on Four per Cent. and Five per Cent. War Loan.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will state the total amount of the National Debt on the latest available date?

The dead-weight National Debt (including Floating Debt) outstanding on 1st February was approximately £7,334,000,000.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether the Treasury has sanctioned a yearly expenditure for the after-care of tuberculous ex-Service men, and will he state the date and the amount so sanctioned, and also how many appointments have bet made in connection with this matter; and whether any scheme has yet been formulated for this purpose?

I have been asked to reply to this question. Sanction for the yearly expenditure of £20,000 was given in May last, and thereupon a scheme for the domiciliary visiting of tuberculous ex-Service men was drawn up and considered in consultation between the Departments concerned, namely, the Ministry of Pensions, the Local Government Board, and the National Health Insurance Commission. On the 4thDecember last the Local Government Board issued to the local authorities an explanatory circular, of which I am sending my hon. Friend a copy. I am unable to say how many appointments have been made by the local authorities. Special appointments would not be necessary in all areas as the scheme is an extension of the arrangements which in many districts were already in existence.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware that the increase in the cost reliving at the present time is about 130 per cent. compared with the period before the outbreak of war, whether any increase has been made in the pensions scale of Civil servants to assist in meeting this increase; if not, whether the Government has the matter under consideration; and what action they propose to take in the matter?

I cannot accept 130 per cent.—which is merely the amount of the average change of retail prices—as the correct figure for the increase in the cost of living, which was found by the Sumner Committee to be only 80 per cent. in the case of urban working-class households. The question of an addition to the pensions of Civil servants has been carefully considered by both the present and the late Governments. The Government is not prepared to introduce legislation to secure the proposed increase, the cost of which would be prohibitive.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury what steps it is proposed to take to increase the pensions of retired Government employés to meet the increased cost of living?

This question has been carefully considered by both the present and the late Government. The Government is not prepared to introduce legislation—as would be necessary—to secure the proposed increase, the cost of which would be prohibitive.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether any and, if so, what Grant has been made for housing; whether any and, if so, what proportion has been car-marked for Ireland; if no part is hypothecated for Ireland, whether an equivalent Grant will be made for Ireland; whether local authorities in England have been offered that the Treasury will bear any loss in excess of the proceeds of a penny rate, whereas local authorities in Ireland have been told that they must bear any loss that occurs; and whether the same option will now be given to local authorities in Ireland as has been given to local authorities in England and Scotland?

This matter is now under consideration in connection with the housing proposals of His Majesty's Government.

asked the Food Controller if he will state the number of proof gallons of whisky released in each year between1915 and 1918 for consumption in the United Kingdom, and by the Expeditionary Forces; for consumption in British Dominions; and for consumption elsewhere?

I have been asked to reply to this question. I am taking steps to ascertain how much of this information is available, and will circulate it in due course.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Hoard of Agriculture whether he is aware that orders for the ploughing up of grass-land are still being given by agricultural committees; and why this action is being taken at a time when the supply of corn available or in sight is generally understood to be ample for the requirements of the country?

It is still in the National interest what as much and as possible in that country should be kept and brought under the plough, in new of the probable demand of other countries on the exportable surplus of the world. The need for increased production remains, and the Board have, therefore, informed the agricultural executive committees that, while it is impracticable at present to compel farmers generally to plough more grass land, orders may be issued in special cases. I may remind my hon. Friend that all ploughing orders are low subject to a right of appeal to an Independent arbitrator. The policy of the Board on the matter is set out in a circular Setter issued by the President on the 1st onst., a copy of which I am sending to my hon. Friend.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture, what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the land ploughed up during the War is not allowed to revert to grass?

Agricultural Executive Committees are authorised by Regulations issued under the Defence of tie Realm Act to maintain in arable cultivation any grass land which has been ploughed up.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he has been notified that the Tottenham District Light, Heat, and Power Company have recently given notice to the Totter ham Urban District Council requiring the surrender in September next of land known as the Willoughby Farm site, situate in the urban districts of Edmonton and Tottenham, and now being cultivated as allotments under the provisions; of the Cultivation of Lands Order, 1918; and, if so, what steps have been taken to secure the allotment cultivators in the enjoyment of their plots until it is proved to the satisfaction if the Hoard that the land is required by the freeholders for building or other industrial purposes?

The land in question was not obtained under the provisions of the Cultivation of Lands Order, but under an agreement between the gas company and the urban district council. The company are acting within their rights to determine the tenancy of the urban district council by giving six months' notice, which is in accordance with the terms of that agreement. The Board are causing inquiry to be made with a view of seeing if a renewal of the tenancy can be effected.

asked the Food Controller how much Colonial, American, and other foreign wheat he his purchased this year; and how much of it has been shipped, or is being shipped in the near future, to this country?

The Royal Commission on Wheat Supplies are preparing a short memorandum on this matter, which will be forwarded to the Noble Lord in due course.

asked the Food Controller whether he is aware that many flour merchants have on hand stocks of flour of the grade allowed a few months ago, and which is now not marketable unless at greatly reduced prices, and is deteriorating day by day whether they are still precluded from selling in quantities exceeding 28 lbs. unless under special licence held by the buyer; whether he is aware of the treatment by District Inspector Barrington, of Newry, and subordinate police officers of local traders; whether this district inspector was removed from his previous station for over-zeal and indiscretion; whether, as this old flour cannot now be sold for human consumption, the Order will be withdrawn, so far at least as the old flour is concerned; and whether District Inspector Barrington will meanwhile be assigned for useful public work?

I am not aware that large quantities of Government Regulation flow of the older standard of extraction are lying unsaleable in the hands of the Irish flour merchants. I am informed that the quantity in hand is negligible; and in view of the fact that the difference in percentage of extraction between the old and the present standard is inconsiderable, it would not appear necessary to take any special steps. Questions affecting the Royal Irish Constabulary should be addressed to the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.

asked the Food Controller (1) whether he is aware that there are at present more than six months' stocks of tea in this country, and that supplies are now coming regularly forward; and whether, in view of this fact, he can see his way to remove the existing restrictions on sale and distribution, subject to the fixing of a maximum price and the making of Regulations to prevent the cornering and accumulation of stocks by wholesalers; and (2) whether he is aware that all the large multiple grocery companies are willing to sell tea in their branches throughout the Kingdom at from 2s. 4d. to 2s. 6d. per lb. of the same quality as that now being sold at 2s. 8d.; and whether he will state why they are not permitted to do so?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if it is intended promptly to release the tea trade from control, and, if so, why?

As the stocks of tea at present in bonded warehouse are sufficient to meet the demand for home consumption for approximately five months, and as supplies are now coming forward regularly, I have decided to suspend the Orders governing the distribution and price of tea, and am consulting the trade as to the precise date from which the suspension shall take effect. I anticipate that the arrangements which will be made with the trade will ensure that a very considerable quantity of good quality tea will be on sale to the public at prices below the present fixed price of 2s. 8d. per lb. As soon as possible I shall announce the date of the suspension of the Orders, and in the meantime consumers must continue to purchase tea only from the retailers with whom they are registered and at the fixed price of 2s. 8d. per lb. Effective steps will be taken to prevent the cornering and accumulation of stocks of tea wholesalers.

asked the Food Controller why he will not permit some of the stocks of high-grade teas under his control to be put upon the British market and sold for British consumption; and why only countries outside Britain are permitted to have these teas while the British people are obliged to use only the poorer qualities?

All teas purchased by the Food Ministry are classified into three grades, A, B, and C, the last-named being the highest quality. These three grades are distributed in equal proportions to the wholesale trade. The tea reaches the consumer in the form of National Control Tea, which must be an average blend of the three grades. Certain quantities of the Ministry's stock are put up in public sale from time to time for export only. The brokers, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Food, are instructed that teas suitable for export are to be selected, and that none of the highest quality, or "C," grade is to be included in these sales. In this way all the high-grade teas imported into this country are retained for home consumption.

asked the Food Controller whether he is aware that last week there were some thousands of tons more meat delivered at Smithfield Market than was the case a year ago; and whether, having regard to this fact and to other circumstances he can see his way to authorise a considerable reduction in the price of meat generally?

The quantity of meat distributed in the Metropolitan area during the week which ended 8th February was 4,015 tons—the amount required to furnish the permitted ration for that week. I may remind the hon. Member that in February, 1918, the rationing of meat supplies had not been brought into operation and the shortage of meat was so acute that butchers were unable to obtain even 50 per cent. of their requirements. It is, therefore, scarcely reasonable to institute a comparison between the two periods. The question of the possibility of effecting a reduction in the price of meat is receiving my close attention.

asked the Food controller if he will state the present stocks of foodstuffs held by the Government, the amounts in course of transit to this country, as well as the extent of the Government commitments for future deliveries to orders already placed; and whether he can indicate the respective periods at which these, supplies in the aggregate are likely to be exhausted and free purchase and importation by private traders re-introduced?

I am unable to give the information required within the limits of an ordinary Parliamentary answer, but I am causing a memorandum to be prepared which will be circulated in due course. It is not possible to fix the precise date on which stocks at present purchased, or which may in future be purchased by the Government, will be exhausted, since the position as regards every commodity varies. Care will be taken in every instance to give the utmost possible notice of the date on which it will be possible to resume trade in any particular commodity, so as to give the traders concerned the fullest opportunity of making their arrangements in advance.

asked the Food Controller whether any effective reason now exists for the continuance of the system of registration in view of the existing food supplies, and the concessions recently made; and whether, even with its abandonment, the necessary measure of control could be adequately secured?

Registration of customers with retailers is the only basis on which the incidence of the demand on particular tradesmen can be ascertained, and so long as supplies of any one food do not afford a sufficient margin to enable a retailer to hold stocks which would meet any possible calls upon him, discontinuance of registration for that food would inevitably lead to queues. In the case of margarine, registration will not be required after 1st March. As regards other commodities, I can only say that I am carefully watching the situation.

asked the Food Controller if it is intended promptly to give up importing food by his Department on account of the nation; and, if so, how the Ministry proposes to protect the public from the effects upon the price of foodstuffs of the shipping freights just announced by the shipping rings which are more than twice as great as the State freight, rates now charged to his Department by the Ministry of Shipping?

No general decision as to cessation of purchase and importation by the Ministry of Food can be reached, since the position varies in respect of each particular commodity. In reaching a decision on any commodity I am bound to consider the available world supplies and probable demands and the arrangements made by the Governments of the exporting countries. It would clearly be unwise to abandon the policy of purchase of any particular commodities until the conditions are such that the ordinary trade can bring in supplies at a price not above that ruling at present.

asked the Food Controller whether arrangements have been made for the United States Government to supply 2,808,000,000 lbs. of rice to Europe; whether this rice, or the greater part of it, is British; and, if so, whether this rice could have been supplied by British merchants?

No such arrangement as that indicated in the question has been made by the Supreme Council of Supply and Relief, and I doubt if any other organisation has power to deal with the matter.

asked the Food Controller if he is aware that wholesale co-operative societies are permitted to purchase eggs in Ireland direct from the producers at, say, the wholesale price of 4s. 6d. per dozen and to retail them in their own shops in England and Scotland at the full retail price of 5s. 6d., while bonâ fide wholesale dealers and shippers are not permitted to sell at a higher figure than 5s., cost of packing and labour included.

The wholesale co operative societies are in the same position as any other wholesalers or wholesale societies and are governed so far as maximum prices are concerned by the same regulations. They cannot, therefore, sell to the retail co-operative societies at a higher figure than 5s.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether his Department has decided against the complete and permanent public control of the milk trade; if so, in whose interest the decision has been made; and how otherwise he proposes to protect the consumer from bad milk at excessive prices?

It is not for my Department to decide either for or against the permanent control of the milk trade. My only endeavour is to procure the largest possible supply of milk in this emergency period and to ensure its distribution on a fair basis.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if the Government has yet decided on its future policy with regard to the control of cattle and sheep; and whether, in any case, six months' notice will be given if it is intended to terminate it on 31st December, 1919?

I have been asked to reply. The controlled prices of cattle and sheep will, under the provisions now in operation, remain in force until 30th September. The question of the control of live stock after that date has not at present been decided, but due notice will be given to producers of any change in policy

asked the Food Controller whether the Regulation is still in force by which the smaller retail grocer are compelled to get their tea and bacon from one wholesale firm only; and, if so, whether he will arrange for this restriction to be removed in the near future and option of dealing with more than one firm given to small grocers, as it acts as a hardship on both them and their customers, as they are debarred from any choice of goods?

The Regulation to which the hon. Member refers was imposed at the request of the transport authorities in the interests of economy of transport. As soon as the situation justifies such a course, the Regulation will be withdrawn.

asked the Food Controller if he is aware of dissatisfaction, especially amongst manual workers, that home-made beer cannot be brewed on account of not being allowed to obtain the necessary material; and whether he will consider the desirability of restricting the supply to the brewers so that home-brewing may be resumed?

The question of home-brewing is under consideration by my Department in conjunction with the Liquor Control Board and the Treasury. I cannot at present make any statement on the matter.

asked the Food Controller if it is intended in the near future to release an extra percentage of alcoholic spirits for consumption in Ireland, and, if so, will he state the amount; if it is also intended to increase the barrelage of beer for consumption in Ireland, and, if so, to what extent; if there is also to be an increase in the strength of this beer and what increase; and is he aware of the strong desire expressed by the majority of the people of Ireland represented at present in this House at the late election in favour of a curtailment instead of an increase in this traffic?

I have asked the War Cabinet to consider the advisability of increasing the amount of spirits to be released from bond. The statutory barrelage of beer has recently been increased by 25 per cent. and the average gravity has been increased by 2 per cent. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the preventive otters for protecting merchant ships against the danger of mines are being generally removed; and whether the risk of mines is so small as to justify this step?

The Admiralty is not aware of the general removal of otters from merchant vessels. Corre- spondence on the subject is now taking place between the Admiralty and the Shipping Controller.

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if he can give an exact or approximate date when prize money will be distributed?

I am afraid I cannot at present. But I can say that the tribunal appointed under the Naval Prize Act of last year is proceeding with its work with all activity, and the Department responsible is pressing forward with the preparation of the records of service of those eligible to participate.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether any recognition or reward for services has been granted to the officer commanding the Clyde defences based on Ardrossan?

The local naval arrangements for the defence of the sea approaches to the Clyde are in the hands of the Senior Naval Officer, Ardrossan, who will be considered for recognition or reward if recommended by his superior officer.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether it is intended to pay sailors' wives the same reparation allowances as soldiers' wives; and, if not, if he will explain the reason for any differentiation?

The reasons for the differentiation are set forth in Command Paper 7619, of which I am sending the Noble Lord a copy. The policy therein decided upon was so far modified in May, 1918, as to secure that in the lower ratings wives and dependants should not receive less by way of separation allowance, allotment, and allotment concession than the wives and dependants of privates in the Army.

asked the Pensions Minister whether, in view of the fact that the service pension represents deferred pay and cannot be called present earnings, a deceased soldier's life service pension will not be reckoned as earned income in assessing the alternative pension of his widow?

For the purposes of the alternative pension a service pension is considered to be income but not earnings. It is no doubt earned in the sense that the soldier has won it by past services, but it is not current earnings and cannot therefore he included in "the average weekly earnings of a soldier during the twelve months preceding the commencement of the war." It may be added that if a service pension were regarded as "earnings" it could not be ignored, as it now is, in assessing the earnings of which a disabled man who claims an alternative pension is to be judged capable.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether a soldier who has been serving abroad and has been wounded and sent home as only fit for home service is entitled to a gratuity of £5 for the first year of his service and 10s. a month for every month of service after the first year, or is only entitled to a gratuity of £5 for the first year and 10s. for every month of service abroad and 5s. for every month of service at home after the first year?

The war gratuity is payable on the basis mentioned in the first part of my hon. and learned Friend's question.

asked the Secretary, of State for War whether, in view of the fact that Army Order 17, of 1919, absolutely debars from the special war gratuity thousands of men who voluntarily joined Up in 1914 and 1915, served for less than six months, and were then discharged with no overseas service through no fault of their own, thus placing them on a level with men dishonourably discharged and conscientious objectors, he will consider some modification of this Army Order?

The decision that a soldier who had not rendered any war service overseas should be required to have given a minimum period of more than six months' service at home was reached by the Government after very careful consideration, and I regret that it is not possible to re-open the matter.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the gratuities payable to soldiers of £5 for the first year and of 10s. or 5s. a month for every month after the first year during the present War are given in addition to or substitution for the war service gratuities of £1 for every year of service?

Generally the war gratuity is in substitution for the service gratuity; but in the case of soldiers serving on regular attestations of the ordinary type, no deduction will be made, when the soldier is eventually discharged, by reason of the war gratuity given in respect of the years of war.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he proposes to afford any facilities for near relatives to visit the graves of soldiers who have fallen in the War?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the oral reply which I gave to-day to a similar question by my hon. Friend the Member for Central Southwark.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will arrange, in the disposal of Army cars and lorries, to formulate a scheme by which those men who have been driving them and who are being demobilised from the Army might have an opportunity of purchasing them on some instalment system, so that they could start a carrying business and so get a living for themselves and help the neighbourhood in which they settle by increasing the means of transport?

I have been asked to reply to this question. I need hardly say that I am in sympathy with any practical scheme for assisting discharged soldiers. In view, however, of the very large number of men who have driven War Department motor vehicles during the War, difficulties of finance, accounting, and administration would render it impracticable for the Disposal Board of the Ministry of Munitions to deal with individuals, under any scheme of payment by instalments. If, however, any approved organisation, interested in the welfare of discharged soldiers, is willing to undertake the responsibility of the disposal of motor vehicles in the manner suggested, I should be glad to consider the allocation of a number of surplus vehicles to such an organisation for the purpose indicated, always provided that the interests of the Exchequer were safeguarded.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the scheme which has been adopted by the War Office for the disposal of horses and mules recently used on the various battle fronts, specifying which class of animals are to be retained for use in the Army and which are to be sold either in this country or abroad; and whether any legislation is to be introduced by the Belgian or any other foreign Government for ensuring the better protection of animals?

It has been decided, after consultation with the Board of Agriculture, not to bring to this country any horses and mules from theatres of operations other than France owing to the risk of importing disease. In Mesopotamia, Egypt, Salonika, and Italy surplus animals are therefore disposed of by sale to the inhabitants who are in urgent need of them, or by destruction, as to which generals commanding are authorised to use the most liberal discretion. In France the animals have been divided into four classes for disposal:—1st. Those required for the Army of Occupation.2nd. Those which are considered suitable for sale in Great Britain.3rd. Those which it is not desirable to repatriate but which are well fitted for work in civil life.4th. Those which it is considered better to destroy.The animals in class (3) are being sold both in Belgium and France, where they are much required by the inhabitants.I am afraid I cannot answer the last part of my hon. and learned Friend's question.

asked the Secretary for War whether his attention has been called to complaints as to the present system of allocation of the sales of Army horses and equipment to selected auctioneers on different districts; and whether he will consider the desirability of a more equal distribution of this business among all qualified members of the profession?

The sales of surplus Army horses are held at convenient centres by local auctioneers who are carefully selected by General Officers Commanding-in-Chief. I am, of course, prepared to consider any special case that may be brought to my notice in which a more advantageous arrangement might be possible. There have boon no general sales of equipment.

asked the Secretary for War whether he is aware that a Scottish battalion en route to ship to Gallipoli in May, 1915, was involved in the Gretna railway disaster; and whether, in view of the fact that the battalion suffered very severely when thus under orders for overseas service, it would be possible to extend to the survivors the privilege of wearing the 1914–15 Star?

Entry on duty in a theatre of war is an essential condition for the award of every war medal, and I am afraid no exception can be made in the case of the men of the battalion mentioned by my hon. and gallant Friend.

asked the Secretary for War whether, at the termination of the War, Regular officers serving in the Army will get a gratuity equal to that paid to temporary and Territorial officers; and will there be such an increase of pay of Regular officers when posted for duty in the United Kingdom as will bring their salary up to pre-war value?

The first part of the question is answered by the announcement in the Press this morning. The gratuity to Regular officers is less than that to temporary officers because the latter have generally to re-equip themselves for a fresh start in civil life. As regards the second part, all Regular officers are for the present drawing the bonus granted to the armies of occupation. The future permanent scales of pay are receiving careful consideration.

asked whether cadets or officers at Woolwich or in the Regular Army can obtain their discharge in order to complete their education in the same way as cadets or officers in the temporary Army; and, if not, what steps are being taken to enable them to complete their educational studies?

Although prior to admission to the Royal Military Academy or Royal Military College gentleman cadets must declare that it is their bonâ fide intention to make the Army their profession in life, they are in practice allowed to withdraw at any time. Officers of the Regular Army many resign their commission provided they join the Reserve of Officers.

asked what disciplinary action has been taken in correction with the occurrences at Victoria Station on Friday and Saturday last?

The matter is under investigation.

asked the Secretary for War how many British soldiers have been returned as missing during the War, how many of that number have been proved killed, how many have been recovered, and how many are still missing without any trace; and whether he will make a detailed statement in the House of the efforts which the War Office has made, or is making, to scour Germany for the recovery of the missing or evidence of their fate?

The present net total number of officers, and men reported "missing," including prisoners of war for all theatres and all Services (Imperial and Colonial), is approximately 359,800. Of this total it is estimated that approximately 198,000 have been prisoners. Death has been presumed in the case of 97,000 owing to the absence of any indication for a long period that they were alive. There are, therefore, still about 64,800 whose fate remains to be determined. As a preliminary step to recover from Germany all who might still be detained there on account of illness or any other cause after the great majority of the British prisoners of war had been repatriated, medical units, fully staffed and equipped, were sent into each Army Corps district in the country with orders to search every camp, prison, mine, asylum, hospital, or anywhere else, with a view to gathering in all that might be found, both sick and well. The former were concentrated in central hospitals in each Army Corps district and moved from there by hospital train. Other Allied Powers undertook the same service, and each collected all of any Allied nationality. The German authorities called for a complete roll of all Allied prisoners still in the country on the 25th January, and issued a proclamation threatening heavy penalties against any who did not bring those of whom they knew to notice.A list of those who are known to have been prisoners of war and who have not yet been repatriated, or whose death has not been reported officially, is in course of preparation. It will be presented to the German Government with the demand that they account for every one of them. A central inquiry office under British supervision will shortly be established at Frankfort, from which inquiries regarding any who may be still in Germany will be prosecuted. It is possible that a certain number of men may elect to stay in the country, and these may not make their presence known.It does not appear practicable to make a systematic search of every village in Germany unless the co-operation of the German people can be enlisted. The question of offering a reward for the discovery of British missing in Germany was discussed at the Interdepartmental Committee a short time ago. It was considered to be most inadvisable at present, and to be adopted, if at all, only in the last resort.

asked the Secretary for War what steps have been taken to trace in enemy countries British sailors and soldiers reported as missing; what records were preserved in enemy countries of wounded men and prisoners taken; what records were kept of those who died and of their places of burial or other disposition of their remains; and what steps have been taken, or are being taken, to verify the accuracy of enemy records or reports?

Official reports are received from enemy countries of the prisoners taken by them, and these are supplemented by the evidence of the private correspondence of the prisoners them selves. Reports are also received of the dead found by the enemy on the battle field. If a soldier who is reported "missing" does not appear as a prisoner of war, and if no report is received from British or enemy sources of the finding of his body, it is almost certain that he has fallen without his fate becoming known to the authorities of either country. The only evidence likely to be available in enemy countries of his fate is that of comrades taken prisoner at the same time. With a view to obtaining this evidence lists of the missing have been circulated among the camps in enemy countries where British prisoners were detained. Inquiries have also been made in individual cases where there was evidence to show that a soldier had been in enemy hands. There is no exact information as to the form of enemy prisoner records, but it is believed that they are kept in considerable detail and are practically complete, except in the case of Turkey. The defects of description in the official records are made good by the unofficial information as to the prisoners. A considerable number of reports have also been received of the deaths and burials of prisoners and of the finding of our dead by the enemy on the field. The suggestion that many of the missing are in Germany in secret camps, asylums, etc., has not so far been substantiated in any case although every supposed case has been investigated as far as possible.

asked the Secretary for War whether Mr. F. Tiarks has been appointed financial adviser to the Military Governor of Cologne; is this gentleman a director of the Bank of England and a partner of Schroeder Brothers, of London; what is his connection with Schroeder Gebruder, of Hamburg; and whether he is aware that he is a grandson of a Lutheran clergyman in Germany?

General Sir Herbert Plumber applied for a civilian adviser of financial and commercial experience to assist him on questions of a non-military nature affecting the occupied territory and Mr. Tiarks was selected for appointment as Civil Commissioner in view of his special qualifications. Mr. Tiarks is a director of the Bank of England, and a partner, not of Schroeder Brothers, but of J. Henry Schroeder and Company, of London, a purely British firm, established here in 1804. Neither he nor his firm is connected with Schroeder Brothers, nor with any other German firm. His grandfather was born in Germany, came to England as a young man, lived there the rest of his life, and married an Englishwoman. For further information as to Mr. Tiarks' services in the Royal Navy and Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer of the Financial Secretary to the Admiralty on 26th July, 1917.

asked whether, whereas the municipal tramways of Cologne had to carry all ranks of the Second Army free, the men have now been ordered to pay half-fare; and, if so, through whose instigation was this change made?

My hon. and gallant Friend is under a misapprehension. I am informed that British soldiers are not required to pay tram fares in Cologne, and that there has been no change in the practice.

asked the Secretary for War whether he is aware of the discontent existing in the Royal Ordnance Corps owing to the excessive hours being worked in France; and what stops he proposes to take to reduce the same?

I am not aware of any reason for discontent beyond the general desire on the part of all services to get back to normal conditions. All possible steps are being taken to reduce the working hours of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps in France and elsewhere to the minimum necessary for carrying out essential work. It must be remembered that the work of the ancillary services bears a direct relation to the rate at which general demobilisation can be carried out. The Royal Army Ordnance Corps has to dual with an immense quantity of valuable Government property, and unless its economic handling and disposal have to be unduly protracted, no small demands must be made upon the officers and men concerned.

asked the Secretary for War if he is aware that Gunner G. Riley, No. 296,172, anti-aircraft section, Royal Garrison Artillery, Common Side, Selby, Yorks, has; had deducted from his credit the 9½d. per day extra pay to which he is entitled; that he has been unable to obtain any answer to his request for an explanation; and what arrangements are made to allow a man to state his case when deductions are made from his pay?

I am having inquiry made, and my hon. Friend will be informed of the result as soon as possible.

asked the Secretary for War whether he is aware He at men who enlisted early in 1915,and live served with the Salonika Field Force since its inception in 1916 have as yet obtained no leave; whether there has been no opportunity since the Armistice of granting such leave; and whether he can ensure that such men should now be granted leave or demobilised?

asked tie Secretary for War whether he will make such arrangements as will enable the claim for leave of men without any leave for three years to receive proper consideration?

All men who enlisted before the 1st January, 1916, are being demobilised as rapidly as possible, in accordance with the new scheme (subject only to certain exceptions set of it in that scheme.

asked the Secretary for War what steps have been taken towards making a distribution in the British and Irish areas of the United Kingdom of the guns and other trophies captured from the enemy during the War, having regard to the services rendered by the respective areas, and the whole subject to due provision being made locally for the adequate protection and preservation of the guns and trophies to be distributed?

The general distribution of captured trophies is made by the Army Council upon the recommendation of the War Trophies Committee. There are two classes (1) Trophies to which substantiated claims have been made by the units which captured them. These are allotted to particular regimental depots, towns and boroughs, according to the wishes expressed by the units. (2) Trophies which are unclaimed. These will be distributed to places recommended by the Lords Lieutenant of the various counties who have been asked to pay special regard to War services in submitting their lists. In suitable cases these recommendations are also brought to the notice of units with substantiated claims. The trophies are not despatched before the public body or museum, to which they are allotted, have undertaken responsibility for their care and custody.

asked the Secretary for War why delay has occurred in demobilising one-man business men who have not left the United Kingdom, and are doing little or no good in the Army; and why men due for demobilisation when on leave are made to travel long distances to certain depots and stations in order to satisfy routine requirements before they are actually released from military service?

My hon. Friend will be aware from the recent Army Order making provision for the composition of the Armies of Occupation, that the fact that a man is the proprietor of a one-man business is not of itself sufficient to render him eligible for demobilisation, unless he is otherwise eligible under the Army Order. With regard to the second part of the question, men are sent to the dispersal station which is nearest to their address, and I do not think any other method of release would further minimize travelling.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether, in the event of the soldier's demobilisation papers being forwarded to the men's unit, it is still within the discretion of the commanding officer as to whether the man should be released or not; and whether he is aware that numbers of soldiers for whose demobilisation application has been made and endorsed are not being released accordingly?

Officers and soldiers detailed for release as demobilisers or pivotal men will be retained for military duties only under the written authority of the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief concerned, and for the most exceptional reasons. Officers and soldiers for whom release slips have been received will not be retained beyond the time when they should be included in a party for dispersal without the written approval of an officer not below the status of a brigade commander. It is not within the discretion of a commanding officer to refuse to release a man whose demobilisation has been ordered. I am not aware of any cases of soldiers not having been released whose demobilisation has been ordered, but if the hon. Member will state a specific case, inquiries will be made. The terms of the recent Army Order forming the Armies of Occupation will of course affect the cases of men whose release slips have been received, but not those of pivotal men (received by the War Office before 1st February, 1919) nor of releases on extreme compassionate grounds

asked the Secretary for War what is the sum allowed to soldiers on discharge for the purchase of an overcoat; if a standard price has been fixed for overcoats; if so, what is the amount what is the cost of the military overcoats now supplied to the Army; and if he will take steps immediately with a view to increasing the allowance under this head to an amount sufficient to enable the men to obtain clothing of a satisfactory and serviceable quality?

Civilian greatcoats are given to men discharged as physically unfit for further service. They are not issuable to men dispersed on demobilisation, who go away in their Army greatcoats. The soldier entitled to a civilian greatcoat is issued with a coat in kind, but if he declares that he is in possession of a greatcoat of his own and prefers an allowance in cash, he gets 40s. In these circumstances it is not considered necessary to increase the allowance. The cost of the civilian greatcoat to the State is 44s. 3d. The cost of the military overcoat is 49s. 6d.

asked the Secretary for War if he would state exactly what part of his uniform a soldier is allowed to retain on demobilisation; and whether the same rule applies to men who are serving at home, or who are on service overseas, at the date of their demobilisation?

The articles of uniform a soldier may retain on demobilisation are—1 greatcoat, 1 pair boots, 1 cap, 1 jacket (service dress), 1 pair of trousers (pantaloons or knickerbockers or a kilt), 1 pair of puttees or leggings. He is required to return the greatcoat within twenty-eight days after leaving, and is refunded £1 on doing so. He is also allowed to retain his underclothing and small kit. No difference is, made between men serving at home and those on service overseas.

asked the Secretary for War why it has not been possible to come to a decision to release Lance-Corporal Noble, No. 6646, Dorset Regiment, now in First Southern General Hospital, Maryhill Section, Birmingham; whether he is retained for other than military or medical grounds; and why can no statement of his account be obtained by him?

Inquiries are being made into this case, and I will inform my hon. Friend of the result as soon as possible.

asked what arrangements, if any, are made to reply to applications for demobilisation on compassionate grounds; and whether it would be possible to reply to the applicant in each case?

Applications for release on compassionate grounds are acknowledged when first received, and after due inquiries have been made applicants are informed whether the application can be granted.

asked the Secretary for War what steps are being taken in regard to the demobilisation if the Mesopotamia and Salonika Armies the approximate number of men in each case who come under the category of "For early demobilisation"; the number of ships allotted for their return; and the dates by which the men's arrival in England can be expected?

All the instructions which are issued from time to time on the subject of demobilisation, including the order of priority of composition of dispersal drafts are cabled to Salonika and Mesopotamia. The military authorities in Salonika and Mesopotamia have been asked by cable to forward information by telegram showing the numbers liable for retention in the armies of occupation, by various categories. When this information has been received, it will be possible to estimate the numbers who are eligible for demobilisation. Men from those theatres are already in process of arriving, and it is hoped to bring horns all the British troops who are not required for armies of occupation by the end of April, and sufficient transportation has been arranged for this purpose.

asked the Secretary for War if he is aware that a batch of men belonging to the London Scottish; and stationed at Wisbech, were granted release, their equipment handed in, and all necessary forms duly signed, and arrangements made for their leaving on Saturday, 1st February, and on Friday, 31st January, a telegram was sent announcing that demobilisation was to erase at midnight; and if anything can be done to prevent the inconvenience caused be such sudden alteration of plans?

I am not aware of this occurrence. Inquiries will be made into the matter, and I will inform my right hon. and learned Friend of the result as soon as possible.

asked the Minister of National Service whether, in counting service for demobilisation, the date of attestation is counted as the date of enlistment?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the proposal that the army of occupation should be composed of those who had not enlisted before 1st January, 1916, makes any exception in respect of those men who when they applied to join before that date were rejected on medical grounds but subsequently enlisted?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, under the scheme of demobilisation, it is proposed to retain with the Colours men who joined the forces subsequent to 1st January, 1916, but who volunteered and were rejected, or for other reasons were not permitted to enlist, at an earlier date?

To determine whether a warrant officer, N.C.O., or man is eligible for demobilisation under Army Order 55 of 1919, the date taken into account is the date he joined the Colours for immediate or continuous service.

asked the Secretary for War if, in view of the demands of the Home population for medical aid and advice, he has taken steps to release as many doctors as possible from service with the Colours; will he state the number of doctors who have been so released since the signing of the Armistice?

Since the signing of the Armistice, 1,446 doctors have been returned to civil life and their release from the Army completed. In addition there are 1,235 whose release has been ordered and who will be returned to civil life as and when their services can be spared. The release of large numbers of doctors is entirely dependent upon the military situation.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour whether men who have been on service for four years and are now serving on mine-sweepers are entitled to immediate demobilisation?

The demobilisation of such men is governed by the orders as to priority in force for the Navy generally. Under these Orders demobilisation in the Navy is being conducted primarily with regard to civil occupations; but, other things being equal, men with a longer war service have priority over men with a shorter war service.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that a considerable number of young men who joined His Majesty's Forces before the completion of their apprenticeship now find themselves in a very difficult position, as they must either complete the term of their apprenticeship or join the ranks of unskilled workers; and will he arrange with the trade unions to make an exception in favour of those apprentices who had served two years before joining the Colours by having them classed as journeymen without serving the balance of their time, which would necessitate their taking youths' wages instead of a man's pay?

A scheme has been approved by a Committee of the Cabinet for rendering State assistance to apprentices whose apprenticeship has been interrupted by service in His Majesty's Forces. This scheme provides—

(1) That the period of the unexpired apprenticeship shall be reduced;

(2) That during the reduced period of apprenticeship the State shall contribute to the wages of the apprentice one-sixth of the standard rate of wage payable to a journeyman, and that the employer shall make a certain addition to the ordinary apprentice wage—the apprentice thus receiving three-fourths of the journeyman's wage in the first year and five-sixths in the second.

Negotiations are now being carried on with national joint industrial councils and other committees representative of the various trades with the object of securing an agreement on these lines.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller whether British tonnage has been employed in bringing American troops back from Europe to America for demobilisation; if so, how much; and whether he can state why this tonnage could not be employed in furthering the demobilisation of British and Colonial troops?

Such shipping as must be retained on the North Atlantic, and is not required for the repatriation of the Canadian Army at the rate desired by the Canadian Government, has bean utilised for the conveyance of American troops from Europe to the United States of America. Since the signing of the Armistice 70,000 American troops have been conveyed in British shipping. The tonnage so employed, being constructed for North Atlantic work, would not be suitable for the demobilisation of Dominion forces other than Canadian, as in such cases hot weather voyages; are involved.

asked the resident of the Hoard of Trade if he can make any statement as to the progress which has been made in the re-conversion to civil uses of factories taken over or adopted under official instructions for War purposes; and whether any causes of delay or hindrance have been brought to his notice?

I have been asked to take this question. In view of the large number of firms which have been engaged during the War on the manufacture of munitions, it is impossible to give any general estimate of the present position within the Units of an answer to a question, but the process of reversion to civil industry is in many districts making steady progress. The chief obstacle to a more rapid change-over of industry is the reluctance shown by some firms to manufacture to stock, owing to the uncertainty as to future prices of raw materials, the fear of a falling market, and the prevailing industrial unrest. Difficulty in obtaining raw materials is still felt to some extent. Inability to secure the demobilisation of skilled men from the Forces is often put forward as a reason for delay, but this difficulty is now being rapidly overcome.

asked the Minister of Munitions whether he is aware that the manufacture of cordite has been resumed at Gretna; what is the purpose for which this cordite is to be used, in view of the fact that so large a stock exists in the country; and what justification there is for using raw material for this unnecessary purpose?

The production of cordite at Gretna has never been actually stopped, although the output has now been reduced to a merely nominal quantity. It is not considered desirable entirely to stop the manufacture of cordite at Gretna.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions what are the allowances granted to munition workers on discharge; and how these allowances compare with the allowances granted to officers and men on demobilisation?

I am not quite sure to what allowance the hon. and gallant Member refers. No gratuity is given to munition workers on discharge. If, however, the question refers to out-of-work allowances, the question should be addressed to the Ministry of Labour.

asked the Minister of Munitions whether in the measures that are being taken by the Salvage Committee to salve barbed wire arrangements will be made whereby wire, little the worse for use, that has been used in the defences along the East Coast, and also the timber which has been used in the battening of coast-defence trenches, will be made available for the use of the agricultural community during the coming summer?

Instructions have already been given to the various commands to dispose locally of the wire entanglements and timber which have been used for coast defences. Most of the wire when salved would only be valuable as scrap. Sales take place after due publicity, and, subject to a fair price being obtained, preference will, so far as possible, be given to local farmers, agricultural associations, and other public bodies, with special regard to persons whose property has been interfered with by military works.

asked the Pensions Minister when the new model rules under the War Pensions Act, 1917, will be issued to local war pensions committees, with a view, amongst other things, to including in such committees at least two disabled men who have been discharged from His Majesty's Forces, and also a woman who is in receipt of a pension as the widow or other dependant of a man in His Majesty's Forces who has fallen in the War?

The draft model rules under the War Pensions (Administrative Provisions) Act, 1918,are now in the hands of the printers, and it is hoped shortly, to lay them on the Table. The inclusion in local committees of such persons as are mentioned in the question does not, however, depend upon the publication of these rules, as it was made a statutory obligation by the Naval and Military War Pensions (Committees) Act, 1917.

asked the Pensions Minister whether new model rules under the War Pensions Act, 1917, will prohibit the appointment of conscientious objectors to any local war pensions committee?

The model rules which are being drafted under the War Pensions (Administrative Provisions) Act, 1918, regulate the proceedings, not the personnel, of the Committee. There is no Statutory power under which the Minister of Pensions can vote the appointment of a conscientious objector to a local committee, but if in a particular case the appointment were forced on an unwilling committee, it would presumably be open to the committee to represent to the Minister, under Section 2 (1) (g) of the Act of 1918, that the removal of the member "is desirable with a view to securing the efficient discharge of the committee's functions."

asked the Pensions Minister whether, in view of the Statutory right of suitable discharged men and their dependants to fill all appointments of officers under war pension committees, he will take such steps as may be necessary to ensure that the provisions of the War Pensions Act of 1918 are carried out?

The regulation about to be issued under the War Pensions (Administrative Provisions) Act, 1918, will provide, as required by the Act, that in making appointments to their staffs the committee shall give preference to suitable candidates who have served in the War, or the dependants of men who have so served. The regulations will also provide that in the appointment of principal officers the names and qualifications of the chosen candidates shall be submitted to the Ministry for approval. It will thus be possible for this Department to ensure that the requirements of the Statute are fulfilled.

asked the Minister of Reconstruction whether, with a view to encouraging the production of bricks from brick kilns that have been closed during the war, and guaranteed price of briefs has been fixed; and, if so, whether he ran state what that price is?

I have been asked to answer this question. No guaranteed price for building bricks has yet been fixed, though maximum selling prices are fixed for districts and in certain cases for individual brick-yards. The conditions of brick-yards throughout the country are being investigated, and arrangements are being made by the Ministry of Munitions to place orders as widely as possible at agreed prices, in order to stimulate production.

asked the Secretary of State for India if he can give the House any information as to the action the Government of India proposes to take upon the Report of the Holland Industrial Commission?

I have agreed to the appointment for the time being of Sir Thomas Holland, the President of the Commission, as the Industrial Adviser to the Government of India. But as regards the detailed recommendations of the Commission, I am awaiting the considered opinion of the Government of India and local governments.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether Lord Morley's dispatch of 1909 expresses the present policy of His Majesty's Government and of the Government of India in regard to the action of the State in respect of the introduction of new industries into India?

I would refer my hon. Friend to Chapter XI. of the Report on Indian Constitutional Reforms, where the policy of the Government as regards Indian industries is dealt with. The Viceroy and I have there expressed our belief that on all grounds a forward policy in industrial development is urgently called for, and that if the resources of the country are to be developed, the Government must take action.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether the mill strike in Bombay has been brought to a satisfactory conclusion; and whether he has any information to give the House regarding the riots by which it was accompanied?

Through the intervention of the Governor, a settlement of the Bombay mill strike was come to on the 22nd January, and the men returned to work. Sir G. Lloyd has since reported that some mills have again suspended work. The presence of cholera is said to be making the workers restless and anxious to return to their villages. There were sporadic riots, accompanied by shop looting and intimidation, in the first few days of the strike. These were kept within bounds by tactful management of the police and show of military force. The Governor reports that though nearly 200,000 strikers were demonstrating in the streets for some days and attempting violence, law and order were preserved at the cost of only seven lives.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he can give the House any information as to the date on which the Bill dealing with reforms in Indian administration will be introduced?

I hope this Session. But the precise date depends largely on the time when the Government receive the Reports from the Committees which are now investigating certain questions connected with the proposed reforms. I can assure my hon. Friend that no avoidable delay will be allowed to occur in the introduction of the Bill.

asked the Home Secretary if his attention has been drawn to the overcrowding in carriages on the underground railways in the Metropolitan area, and to the probability that this overcrowding conduces to the spread of epidemic disease such as influenza; and whether His Majesty's Government intends to take remedial measures by facilitating other means of transport or otherwise?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I am aware of at overcrowding occurs on the underground railways, and this is to be regretted for various reasons, including that referred to in the question, will owing to the abnormal conditions now existing in London I fear it is difficult to provide an immediate remedy.

asked the Home Secretary how many aliens are at present interned in the United Kingdom; how many aliens have been deported since the 1st December; and how many interned aliens have been liberated since the 1st December and on what dates?

The latest state of the internment camps in this country shows the number of interned enemy civilians as 18,607. Since 1st December 6,132 alien enemies have been repatriated, of whom over 6,000 have been interned. Since the same date 118 persons who had been interned as alien enemies have been released, of whom more than two-thirds were released on being duly recognised as Czecho-Slovaks and therefore ceasing to be enemies, and the remainder had been interned merely pending further consideration of their cases by the Advisory Committee, who eventually recommended exemption from internment.

asked the President of the Local Government Board how many men exercised the franchise in England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales respectively, during the recent General Election; how many of these were military voters; and how many women exercised the franchise in the same areas?

I regret that I am not in a position to furnish the desired information. A Return showing the number of electors in each constituency will shortly be issued by the Home Office. In formation is also being collected as to the number of ballot papers issued to absent voters and returned before the Count and accepted as valid; the returns from a few constituencies have not yet been received; as soon as the information is complete. I shall be glad to furnish the hon. Member with it.

asked the President of the Local Government Board if he will state the conditions and salary attached to the recent appointment of Director-General of Housing for England and Wales, the professional qualifications of the new Director-General, and his experience of town-planning operations and of the Town Planning and Housing Acts; the names and professional qualifications of the new Housing Commissioners, the conditions and emoluments attached to their respective offices, and full particulars relating to the technical staff recently appointed to deal with the proposed housing schemes; and whether the staff of superintending architects required by the Board of Agriculture in connection with the housing schemes of land settlement for discharged sailors and soldiers will work under the direction of and be responsible to the Director-General of Housing for England and Wales?

Sir James Carmichael has consented to act temporarily as Director-General of Housing under my Department. While so acting, I have proposed to him that he should accept an honorarium at the rate of £1,500 a year. He has had large experience of building operations, and has also rendered great service during the War as chairman of the Munitions Works Board and of the Committee on the Supply of Building Materials, and as a member of the Standing Council appointed by the Minister of Reconstruction on Post War Priority. He is Past President of the Institute of Builders and London Master-Builders' Association. The other posts referred to have not all been filled, and I am in communication with the Treasury as to remuneration and as to the technical staff to be engaged. When the county council is providing houses in connection with the land settlement schemes of the Board of Agriculture, arrangements have been made to prevent overlapping and to secure co-operation between the two Departments.

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that in certain parts of the country it is being laid down that a person is not entitled to the local government vote unless he or she occupies an unfurnished room of a rental not less than £10 per annum, whilst in other places persons are being put on the voters' list irrespective of the rent paid; will he state which ruling is correct; and whether he wilt issue instructions so that a uniform policy may be followed?

I have no information to the effect stated in the question. The local government franchise is not conditional upon the rental value of premises, whether unfurnished lodgings or not. I will communicate a copy of my hon. Friend's question and this reply to registration officers.

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether, in view of new legislation changing the constitution and duties of London boards of guardians, and also the expense to any candidates owing to the increased number of electors, he proposes to postpone the election of guardians which is due this year.

I am not proposing to take the course indicated in this question.

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether any steps have been taken and, if so, what to give the local authorities some powers of acquiring land expeditiously, and also without undue cost, in order to enable them to get on with the schemes of housing, small holdings, and local improvements urgently required to find employment; and whether any hope can be given of early legislation on the subject?

The general question of the procedure and basis of compensation for the compulsory acquisition of land for housing and other public purposes is under consideration, and it is intended to introduce legislation on the subject at an early date.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what amount of potable spirits distilled in this country are now in bond; and, in the case of whisky, what was the average cost of production per gallon?

The quantity of potable home-made spirit in the bonded warehouses of the United Kingdom on 31st January last was 113,788,000 proof gallons. I have no information as to the average cost of production per gallon.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the number of alien enemies holding pilots' certificates for British rivers who were employed during the war directing attacks on this country by enemy war vessels and airships; and will he take measures to cancel all pilots' certificates held by such men and also stop the granting of further pilots' certificates to all aliens, and allow men of British origin only to act as pilots in British waters?

At the outbreak of war nine Germans held pilotage certificates enabling them to pilot their own ships. All these certificates have now lapsed. The Admiralty have already full power to prohibit the issue of any fresh certificates to aliens if they consider it necessary on the ground of public safety.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the embargo on the importation of hops is to be continued; and whether, in view of the fact that there is an ample supply of home-grown hops in the country, he will give an assurance that no licences for imports will be given during the present year?

The question of import restrictions is at present under consideration. Meanwhile, licences for the import of hops are not being issued.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take immediate steps to remedy the shortage of coal in the areas of the Eastbourne and Hailsham Rural Councils; and whether he is aware that many inhabitants in these districts have been unable to obtain any coal for weeks past, which has entailed suffering, especially to the children, during this cold weather?

During the week ended the 1st February 42 tons of coal were delivered in the Eastbourne rural district and 183 in the Hailsham district. The coal in stock was 16 tons find 213 tons respectively. As, however, there seems to be some shortage in supply, inquiry is being made into the matter, and in the meantime additional quantities of coal are being despatched to the districts in question.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the shortage of supplies of coal to small buyers in several districts of London; and, if such shortage is caused by lack of railway wagons, if he will arrange for Army motor lorries to supply the need for coal to the small consumer during the extreme cold weather?

Certain steps have been taken with a view to facilitating supplies of coal to small buyers. The shortage of coal has been due mainly to recent losses of output of coal and not to shortage of railway wagons.

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the railway stations at youth Bermondsey, Spa Road, and Southwark Park will be reopened for passenger traffic?

My right hon. Friend is in communication with the railway companies concerned on this matter, and will inform the hon. Gentleman of the result.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the Great Eastern Railway Company closed a number of their East End London stations owing to shortage of labour during the War; whether these stations will be reopened in the very near future; and if he will take action in the matter?

My right hon. Friend is in communication with the railway company on this matter, and will let the hon. Gentleman know the result.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the report of Mr. Whitehead on the position of North Staffordshire under the North Staffordshire Railway; and what action he proposes to take in view of the injustices to the district exposed in that report?

My right hon. Friend has considered the report and has been in communication with the North Staffordshire Railway Company in regard to the matters dealt with in it, but he is not in a position to state what action can be taken on the report.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the resentment felt by the travelling public at the continuance of the excess charge on season and ordinary railway tickets; and whether this charge is continued to meet the higher cost of running the railway systems or to check the public using them?

The whole question of the removal or modification of restrictions on railway travelling, both as respects increased charges and otherwise, is receiving constant consideration. My right hon. Friend is fully aware of the feeling of the public in regard to those restrictions, but I am afraid I can hold out no hope of an early reduction in the charges for season or ordinary tickets. The present position of the railways renders the continuance of the charges necessary.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any and, if so, what subsidies are being paid to trading or industrial interests?

I am afraid that it would not be possible to give a satisfactory reply to my right hon. Friend in the scope of an answer to a Parliamentary question. If, however, he will let me know a little more precisely what information he desires with reference to any particular industry, I will endeavour to supply him with it.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Government propose to levy a duty of 25 per cent. on all classes of lace and nets imported into the United Kingdom?

I have been asked to reply to this question. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer is unable to anticipate his Budget proposals.

asked the Minister of Labour if the Ministry of Labour has given consideration to laws in force in other parts of the Empire dealing with the prevention and settlement of industrial disputes by compulsory arbitration; and, if so, with what result?

The reports on legislation in force in other parts of the Empire, together with various suggestions that have been put forward for dealing with labour disputes have been under consideration. The Government propose to take an early opportunity of ascertaining the views of employers' and workpeople's organisations on these subjects.

asked the Prime Minister whether, seeing that in 1912 the Government of the day investigated the best means of alleviating, in the public interest, the effects of labour disputes, any action was taken as a result of the inquiries; whether the matter has been more recently under examination; and whether he will consider the possibility of legislation on lines akin to those adopted in Canada in respect to industrial unrest?

asked the Prime Minister whether the Canadian Report of Sir George Ask with has been considered toy the Government; why the recommendations have not been adopted; and whether, in view of the close experience which Sir George Ask with has had of the recent disputes, he has been consulted as to the advisability of the adoption now of the recommendation in his Report?

I have been asked to reply to those questions. The Report of the Inquiry trade by Sir George Askwith in 1912 into the Canadian Industrial Disputes Investigation Act has been considered, together with other Reports and suggestions on the subject of labour disputes. The matter is one on which the Government propose to take an early opportunity of ascertaining the views of employers' and workpeople's organisations.

asked the Minister of Labour if Sir George Askwith has resigned; and, if so, whether he can state the reason?

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

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture what financial assistance will be given by the Board to ex-officers of the Army, Navy, and Air Force desiring to be trained in agriculture for such posts as officers of the Board, county officials, estate agents, and managers; and what are the prospects of such employment being available?

The Board have obtained authority to award fifty scholarships, of a value varying up to £175 per annum and fees, to be held at universities and agricultural colleges, to ex-officers and men of educational promise wishing to take up a career of the nature indicated by the hon. Member, and they are prepared, subject to Treasury approval, to increase this number up to 100 if necessary. These scholarships are intended for candidates who have some previous scientific knowledge, or practical training, or both. Particulars are given in a booklet, entitled "Land Settlement to the Mother Country—Officers,''which has been widely circulated. Appointments cannot, of course, be guaranteed at the end of training, and the Board are strongly of opinion that the number of posts—official and other—likely to be available does not justify them in encouraging more than a small number of ex-officers or men to seek a career in this direction. I am glad of an opportunity to make this public statement, as very many applications and inquiries for salaried appointments in agriculture are now being received, and it is most desirable that it should be known at once that openings of the kind are bound to be comparatively few.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether it is intended to introduce legislation to establish a system of non-contributory pensions for teachers in Scotland as has been done in England by the Act of last year?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in view of the more favoured position of the police force in England as compared to Scotland, in that, while in England a policeman can retire after twenty-six years' service on a pension calculated on the rate of pay during the last year of his service, whereas in Scotland a man must serve thirty-four years and attain the age of fifty-five, and even then his pension is only calculated on his average pay for the last three years of his service, he will take steps to bring up the conditions prevailing in Scotland in order to make the position of policemen in Scotland somewhat similar to those in England?

I am aware of the difference in the Statutes governing police pensions in England and Scotland. I am in communication with my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary, with the view of taking appropriate action in the matter.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in view of the general recommendation of school board and education authorities in West Stirlingshire that the proposed electoral divisions as announced are unsuitable to the interests and needs of the country, he will either withhold his consent to them or take steps to have an inquiry held in order that representatives of education authorities may state their views and objections?

On consideration of the representation which I have received from school boards in West Stirlingshire, I am satisfied that there is good reason for increasing the number of members for that electoral division to four as desired by the school boards. Effect will be given to this change in the final Order.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he has received any report regarding the disturbance which took place in George Square, Glasgow, on the 31st January last; whether he is aware that strong allegations were made that the baton charge by the police was unnecessary; and whether he is prepared to institute a public inquiry into the whole matter in order to ascertain the facts?

I have received reports in this matter in ordinary course. I am aware of the allegations made, but not of any grounds for them. I have no intention of instituting a public inquiry, more particularly in view of the fact that the men arrested in connection with the disturbances are about to undergo public trial.