asked the Secretary for War whether, as it has been definitely stated in Parliament that Income Tax would be refunded to officers invalided out of the Service during the War, he will now issue instructions to Army agents authorising them to credit the accounts of officers entitled to the refund?

Repayment of tax in respect of gratuities and pensions coming within the scope of Clauses 15 and 16 of the present Finance Bill cannot, of course, be made until that Bill has become law. The actual arrangements for repayment are at present under consideration, and I hope to make an announcement shortly.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, in view of the provision in the Finance Act exempting from Income Tax wound and disability pensions and gratuities payable to soldiers on demobilisation, what steps it will be necessary for soldiers to take who have already been paid gratuities less Income Tax in order to recover the tax deducted?

Repayment of tax in respect of gratuities and pensions coming within the scope of Clauses 15 and 16 of the present Finance Bill cannot, of course, be made until that Bill has become law. The actual arrangements for repayment are at present under consideration, and I hope to make an announcement shortly.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury up to what age men who have served in the present War will be permitted to enter the Ministry of Health, or similar Civil Services, in an administrative or clerical capacity?

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply I gave to his question on the 26th ultimo. The main administrative and clerical classes now being recruited for administrative offices are the Class 1. and junior appointments. The normal pre-war age limits for these posts were twenty-two to twenty-four for Class 1. competitions and eighteen to nineteen and a half for junior appointments. The first competition suspended owing to the War was that which would have taken place in August, 1915, for Class 1., and in November, 1914, for junior appointments. The reconstruction scheme admits for the Class I. competition any candidates between the ages of twenty-two and twenty-eight in August next, and any candidate (even if over the age of twenty-eight) who entered for the examination in 1914 but was not able to compete owing to mobilisation: while for junior appointments all candidates are admitted whose age does not exceed twenty-four and a half in November next.

asked the Food Controller why men demobilised from His Majesty's Forces are refused permits to obtain malt for home - brewed beer, although such permits are being freely granted to men who remained in civilian life throughout the War?

The position is not as stated by the hon. and gallant Member. The regulation is that permits can be granted to persons who were licensed to home brew in 1916, and a concession has been made whereby men demobilised from His Majesty's Forces can obtain a licence provided that they can prove they homebrewed prior to enlistment.

asked the Food Controller whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Gilbert Edwards, who is desirous of returning to his pre-war occupation of fish buyer, and whose application for a wholesale fish merchant's licence has been refused; whether he is. aware that other men who were not in the trade prior to the War have been granted licences; whether he will state the reason for refusing the licence in the case of Mr. Edwards; and whether the decision of the Ministry will be reconsidered?

I have made inquiry into this case, and from information at my disposal I am satisfied that there are no grounds for interfering with the decision of the Local Food Control Committee

asked the Food Controller whether the control of prices for beef and mutton is to be abolished at the end of September; and, if not, whether he can make any statement as to the future control prices of meat this winter?

Owing to the uncertainty as to supplies, I have decided to maintain the control of prices for beef and mutton throughout the winter months. The scale of prices is under consideration, and an announcement on the subject will be made in due course.

asked the Food Controller if his attention has been drawn to the case of John Gunn, butcher, of Thurso, who volunteered for the War, which compelled the closing of his business, and that having been demobilised on account of wounds, he finds himself with hardly any registered customers or a claim upon the local food committee for more than the restricted amount of meat; and whether he will take immediate steps to provide that patriots of this kind shall not be penalised, but shall be encouraged by the restoration of at least full pre-war business opportunities and facilities?

I have ascertained that Mr. Gunn has 212 registered customers, and that a buying permit has been granted to him on the basis of 500 customers. Mr. Gunn should accordingly have no difficulty in obtaining an adequate supply of meat. Food Control Committees have been instructed to grant exceptional facilities to discharged soldiers who reopen their old businesses, and I am satisfied that the instructions have been liberally interpreted in this case.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury what steps, if any, are taken by his Department to test the correctness of the certificate which each Clerk of the Crown and Peace in Ireland has to append to his quarterly statement of expenditure for clerical assistance to the effect that no member of his staff for whom salary and war bonus are claimed is engaged during the official hours at work connected with the preparation and revision of jurors' and electors' lists?

As the requirement of the certificate indicates, the responsibility in this matter rests with the head of each office who, as Clerk of the Crown and Peace, is a legal official of high standing, and whose statement the Treasury accept.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he has yet received a report upon the claim for compensation by Mr. Maurice Finlay, of Cushendun, county Antrim, in respect of his premises used as a war watching station; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter?

A report has been received from which it appears that the premises, used as a war watching station, were offered by Mr. Finlay voluntarily, and I am advised that the use made of them was not such as to give a claim to recompense.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that a number of girl workers employed in Nesbitt's overall and apron-stitching firm, York Street, Belfast, were dismissed on the 28th April last because of slackness of work; whether, on application at the Belfast Labour Exchange, these girls were sent to a shirt-making factory, which work did not suit them; whether the girls have since April last been signing up at the Labour Exchange, but, so far, no out-of-work money has been paid to them; and whether he will now take steps to have the unemployment grant paid to them?

I am causing inquiries to be made into the matter, and will let the hon. Member know the result as soon as possible.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that a gentleman with no previous experience of Admiralty work has been suggested for the important post of Civil Engineer-in-Chief, and that if this appointment is made several officers with long and brilliant records will be passed over; whether he is aware of the feeling of the staff concerned upon the subject; and whether he will accede to the request which has been made by the staff to receive a joint deputation on the subject?

As Brigadier-General Sir Alexander Gibb will shortly vacate the temporary appointment of Civil Engineer-in-Chief to the Admiralty created during the latter part of the War, and Sir Thomas Sims, who has passed the age of sixty, is also about to retire from the permanent post of Director of Works, it has become necessary to select a new head for the Admiralty Works Department. I have decided, after much consideration and after taking advice in many quarters, to appoint an experienced and highly recommended civil engineer from outside the Government service. It is, of course, the case that he has no previous experience of Admiralty work, but I am satisfied that other considerations outweigh this temporary disadvantage. In dealing with this matter I have considered most carefully the claims of members of the permanent staff of the Works Department, whose good work the Board of Admiralty fully appreciate. I also took into consideration as fully as possible the point of view of the staff, and for this purpose had two interviews with a representative of the staff. The appointment having now been settled, no useful purpose could be served by receiving a joint deputation on the subject.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the officers and men of the Royal Army Medical Corps who served in the hospital ships "St. Patrick," "St. David," and "St. Andrew," which were employed in bringing wounded from France from August, 1914, until May, 1919, have been awarded the 1914–15 Star, while a similar award has been refused to the masters, officers, and crews of these vessels, and whether, in view of the fact that the risks run by all the officers and men on these vessels have been identical, he will cause the decision conveyed to the House by the Financial Secretary to the Admiralty to be reconsidered?

The award of the 1914–15 Star is confined to the naval and military forces of the Crown, and the Admiralty are not prepared to recommend its extension to persons who did not form part of those forces. I am aware that in some cases this may lead to anomalies, but the anomalies arising from this cause are not considered to be nearly so great as those which would be involved by a departure from the principles laid down.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the men of the 1st Garrison Battalion, Norfolk Regiment, who went out to India in 1915 and were chased by U-boats en route are entitled to the 1914–15 Star; and, if not, can he state if these men will be entitled to any decoration in recognition of their services in India?

The 1914–15 Star is granted to those members of His Majesty's Forces who served in certain specified theatres of war between the outbreak of war and the 31st December, 1915. India as a whole was not a theatre of war, and service there does not qualify for the award. With regard to the latter part of the question, the matter is under consideration.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty when the fishermen employed in the drifter patrol stationed at Dover will be released and allowed to return home to follow their proper avocation?

It is not understood to what men my hon. Friend refers, but the following facts may give him the information he requires. On 11th November, 1918, there were approximately 138 chartered drifters stationed at Dover. These have now been reduced to twenty-five, of which twenty-three are in hand reconditioning at that port, and their crews have been reduced to the minimum necessary for care and maintenance purposes. The remainder have been dispersed at various times to different ports round the coast for reconditioning and return to their owners. Admiralty-owned drifters employed in mine-sweeping are manned by men who have volunteered for this work. Demobilisation of all fishermen is being effected as rapidly as possible, but congestion of work at the ports where the vessels are reconditioned causes unavoidable delay.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Corporal D. Scard, No. 78384, 29th City of London Regiment, joined up in 1915, has been in Russia, and came home for leave; that the soldier was ordered to return to Leith on 1st July, 1919, for embarkation to Russia, though never having volunteered; will he give instructions at once for this man's release; if it is necessary for such men to be demobilised to go back to their units in such cases as these; if so, will he take steps to allow Russian troops to be demobilised here when on leave; and whether there is any hope, as promised, that only volunteers would be sent to Russia?

Inquiries are being made into this case, and in the meantime this non-commissioned officer will not be sent overseas. Soldiers eligible for demobilisation and who do not volunteer to return to North Russia whilst on leave from that theatre will not be sent to Russia, and will be demobilised in their turn. As regards the last part of the question, as I have previously stated, no men who are not volunteers will be included in drafts for North Russia, but men on leave who are not eligible for demobilisation will, for the present, be required to return to that theatre at the expiration of their leave.

asked the Secretary of State for War (1) if it is possible to give consideration to the claims for an early demobilisation to the men who volunteered for the Army in 1914 and 1915, prior to the Lord Derby scheme and after it coming into force, but were rejected upon medical grounds and who were only recalled for further medical examination in Angust, 1916;(2) whether he could see his way to authorise the immediate release of Lance-Corporal H. Bates, No. 60074, Machine Gun Corps, and Acting-Sergeant A. Watson, No. 28668, 2nd Battalian Leicestershire Regiment, in view of the critical condition of their mothers, aged sixty-nine and sixty-five respectively, both of whom fulfil the conditions for the compassionate release of their sons except in that they have not two children dependent upon them?

asked the Secretary of State for War if, now that Peace has been signed, he will consider the question of returning soldiers who were in the agricultural companies to work on the land in counties such as Leicestershire, where the need for agricultural labour is great?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, having regard to the signature of the Treaty of Peace, he can now make a general statement as to the further demobilisation of the Army?

I will answer these questions together. As my right hon. Friend has already stated, he hopes next week to publish the Memorandum he promised, setting forth the further steps which will be taken consequent on the Ratification of Peace to reduce our armed forces and to release men in the order best calculated to mitigate hardships. He does not wish this to be anticipated by partial answers.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that the Irish Command has issued an order that no man is to be released until a substitute is provided; and, as this order affects and prevents the demobilisation of 1914 and 1915 men, men with wound-stripes, the proprietors of one-man businesses, and men over thirty-seven years of age, will he take steps to rescind the order, so that men who are entitled to demobilisation shall not be retained in the Army?

I am not aware that such an order is in force, but I am having inquiries made, and I will inform the hon. Member of the result as early as possible.

asked the Secretary of State for War why the day on which soldiers who are Post Office employés are demobilised is counted as one of the twenty-eight days' furlough to which they are entitled?

The date on which a soldier's demobilization furlough begins is that which is stamped on his protection certificate, but, in order to ensure that before such furlough begins a particular soldier shall have completed the journey to his home, orders were issued in the early stages of demobilisation that protection certificates should be dated for the day following that on which he left a dispersal station. No differences are made.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Gunner G. Shipman, No. 99563, Royal Garrison Artillery, Mountain Battery, 3 M.A. Brigade, Jutogh, Simla, is detained with his battery though he has been declared medically unfit for loose cartilage of the knee; and, if so, whether he will endeavour to expedite Gunner Shipman's discharge?

Inquiries into this case are being made, and I will let my hon. Friend know the result in due course.

asked the Secretary of State for War why Private A. Gay, No. 124979, Royal Army Medical Corps, 154th Field Ambulance, A Section, Syren Force, British Expeditionary Force, North Russia, who is forty-three, has not been released in conformity with his promise to the House?

Instructions were issued for the demobilisation of Private Gay, but, owing to the conditions that existed in North Russia, I regret they could not be carried out. He will, however be released as soon as circumstances permit.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Corporal G. S. Horman and Sappers G. W. Waples and E. Whetter were attached to a Royal Engineer signal section, orders for the disbandment and withdrawal of which were given in March last; whether the general officer commanding Marines and the admiral successfully objected; whether the Army has again asked for these men because they are due for demobilisation; whether the Navy has declined to agree to their withdrawal; whether naval ratings at Mudros have been released by the naval authorities because of two and a half years service on the island, whereas these signallers with much longer service are being retained; and whether, as the work is purely naval in character and proper to that arm, he will inform the Admiralty that these men must be released?

I am making inquiry, and will acquaint the hon. Member of the result as soon as possible.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether application for the release on compassionate grounds of Gunner R. W. Smith, No. 228154, has been made to and refused by the man's commanding officer; whether the man is the only surviving son of an aged and invalid father who, through the loss of his other two sons in the War, has already lost £2,000, and is daily suffering financial hardship in business; and whether, in view of these facts, he will take steps to authorise the immediate release of this man, and thereby alleviate further unnecessary hardship?

As I have already stated, I hope next week to publish the Memorandum I promised, setting forth the further steps which will be taken consequent on the ratification of Peace to reduce our armed force and to release men in the order best calculated to mitigate hardships. I do not wish to anticipate this by partial answers.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Private P. Corcoran, No. 3991, 2nd Battalion Leinster Regiment, of 71, York Street, Manchester, was demobilised on 5th February, 1919, with a promise of plain clothes, for which he was measured; whether he will direct that such clothes be issued to this soldier; and whether all letters addressed on this subject to the Director of the Army Clothing Department, including a letter of the 24th June, 1919, from the local secretary of the Comrades of the Great War, have failed to elicit any acknowledgment or reply?

I am informed that the form of application for the suit, giving the necessary measurements and particulars, was never received, and the reply to the secretary of the Comrades of the Great War was delayed whilst search was made for the missing document. Private Corcoran has now been asked for his measurements, and on receipt of this information a suit will be issued immediately.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will take steps to order the release for the purpose of demobilisation of soldiers in Egypt and Palestine who are entitled to demobilisation and who are retained in these countries because they are under suspended sentences awarded by court-martial for military offences, some of whom have been serving in the Army since 4th August, 1914, and who but for their being so retained would have been demobilised?

My hon. and gallant Friend is, I think, under a misapprehension. Soldiers under suspended sentence are not "retained," but are merely placed last on the list for demobilisation. If, however, they subsequently behave so well as to merit remission of sentence, the local military authorities can, and frequently do, remit the sentence, and, if eligible, they are then demobilised in accordance with current Regulations.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, on Friday, 4th July, 1919, he met the representatives of the Press and dealt with the Russian situation; and, if so, will he state what precisely was said, in order that Members of the House may in the country be able to justify or condemn the Russian Expedition?

Sir, the facts are as stated. It is by no means unusual for a Minister to make statements to the representatives of the Press in order that they may be as fully informed as is possible. The practice has often been found convenient, and I have every intention of availing myself of it from time to time. With regard to the second part of the question, I am always ready to defend any part of the Government policy which concerns the War Office, if it is raised in the ordinary way upon a suitable occasion.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether drivers of the Mechanical Transport, Navy and Army Canteen Board, are under a military or civil engagement; and whether many of these drivers in Egypt, having been replaced by natives, have since April last been unemployed at Alexandria?

I am making inquiry, and will write to my hon. and gallant Friend as soon as possible.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it has been decided that a time-expired Territorial who rejoined his battalion on the outbreak of the War is not awarded the Territorial efficiency medal owing to the break in the continuity of his services; and will he reconsider this decision?

One of the essential conditions governing the award of this medal, which has been insisted on ever since the Territorial Force was instituted, is continuity of service, and if this condition be unfulfilled, the medal has not been. earned. It is not the intention to alter existing Regulations with regard to the conditions of award of this medal, and I regret I cannot adopt the course suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he consulted the Road Board or the Minister-designate of Ways and Communications in connection with his recent inquiry as to the necessity for further continuing the Joint Roads Committee; whether he will give the total number of members comprising this committee and say how many voted for its retention; whether he is aware of the objection on the part of highway authorities to a military organisation exercising a control over the public highways in times of peace; and whether he can see his way to disband it forthwith, in view of the urgency of economising in every possible direction?

It was not considered necessary to consult the Road Board, as the chairman of the Joint Roads Committee which recently considered the revision of the existing roads organisation is a member of that Board, and the acting manager of the Board is also a member of the committee, but I communicated my views as to the future arrangements to the Minister-designate. There are thirteen members, representative of the various interests concerned, serving on the Joint Roads Committee, which at its meeting on the 18th ultimo unanimously recommended the continuance of the present arrangements. I have no knowledge of any complaint on the part of the highway authorities in regard to the control exercised by the committee, which control, I may add, is purely temporary and limited. As to the last part of the question, as I have informed the hon. Member for Ladywood (Mr. N. Chamberlain), in reply to a question on the 1st instant, it would be undesirable to bring the committee to an end.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Private Edward Barker, No. 10922, 6th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment, C Company, was reported missing as long ago as 10th July, 1915; whether, seeing that nothing has since been heard of him, permission will be given to his parents to assume his death; and whether in cases like this arrangements can be made for refundments of insurance premiums or compensation given for same, as an insurance company only pays up to the date of assumed death?

had a question in similar terms upon the Paper.

The record office concerned has been notified that death has been presumed in this case, and the parents will be informed accordingly by the record office shortly. I understand that the insurance companies return any premiums paid in respect of the period subsequent to the date on which death is ultimately presumed to have taken place, and probably tiny would suspend payments of premium if informed by the parents that a man is missing.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether British soldiers who have been prisoners of war do not receive decorations for valour however gallantly they may have fought before or at the time of their capture; and whether, if such be the rule, the time has arrived when the claims of repatriated prisoners to such decorations may be considered without being prejudiced by the term of internment as prisoners which they have endured?

No, Sir. Recommendations for the award of decorations may now be accepted for officers and men who became prisoners of war in respect of services unconnected with their capture. Services connected with capture will also be considered provided the individual has been absolved by the competent authority from blame in the matter of capture. In all cases recommendations must be substantiated by at least two witnesses who have first-hand knowledge of the services under consideration, one of whom must be an officer. I am sending my hon. and learned Friend a copy of the Army Order which deals with the matter.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the advisability of releasing all military prisoners on the ratification of Peace?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply on the 5th June by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House, in answer to the hon. and gallant Member for Central Hull (Lieut.-Commander Kenworthy), to the effect that after very careful consideration the Cabinet have decided not to adopt the course suggested.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it is intended in the issue of the General Service Medal to make any distinction between soldiers of the front line and soldiers of the rear services?

There is no such intention, except in so far that the clasps which will be issued with the medal will show whether the wearer has taken part in any important action.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the condition of the central registry at the War Office; that requisitions for papers by members of the staff are repeatedly ignored; and, in particular, whether he is aware that Second-Lieutenant A. E. Brittin, 2nd Lincolnshire Regiment, has been reduced to a state of destitution, thanks to his case, which is in charge of M.S. 4b, having remained pending for over five months without this officer having received either the pay, medical board, discharge, or demobilisation to which he is entitled?

I am having the case of 2nd Lieut. A. E. Brittin investigated, and will inform the hon. Member of the result as soon as possible. I am quite satisfied with the working under the present abnormal conditions of the central registry of the War Office, and if my hon. and gallant Friend would like to call at the office I will arrange for the methods of the central registry to be carefully explained to him.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the number of ex-Service men who were employed as clerks at the Army Pay Office, Upper Thames Street, London, E.C., and who have been discharged since 27th June; and the number of women and civilian clerks still retained in the Service, and the number engaged since the 27th June?

The number of ex-Service men employed as clerks at the Army Pay Office, Upper Thames Street, E.C., who have been discharged since 7th June is 62. The number of male civilian clerks still employed there is 420, of whom 360 are ex-Service men, and the number of women clerks is 395. No clerks have been engaged since 27th June.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has received any representations regarding the pay of West Indians who served during the War in the Inland Water Transport, Royal Engineers; whether these men were given to understand on enlistment that they would in due course receive sappers' pay; why such pay has been denied them; and why they have been granted war gratuities at only half the rates laid down. in Army Order 17, of 1919?

Sapper's rates of pay were not authorised for these men, and they were entitled only to the rate of Is. a day on enlistment. They have no claim to the war gratuity of Army Order 17 of 1919. The war gratuity for these and other men similarly enlisted has, after very careful consideration, been fixed at half the full rates issuable to British troops.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Volunteers who have served in England during the War are now allowed to keep the uniform with which they have been provided, but are called upon to either return their boots or pay a sum of 25s.; and whether he will consider the propriety of either leaving these men their whole equipment or none of it?

Volunteers who have served is England during the War are allowed to keep their uniform, but the boots were provided as a reserve for use in case of emergency only, and were issued for a fortnight's preliminary wear to condition them for marching. They are not surplus to any requirements as the uniforms are. As to the terms on which they may be retained, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to the hon. Member for Central Nottingham (Mr. Atkey) on 3rd July.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any decision has yet seen reached with reference to the acquisition of approximately 100 acres at Chilwell, adjoining the land at present in the War Department occupation, for the purpose of erecting sheds for the accommodation of Army stores; whether the preliminary inquiries as to the cost of the proposed scheme have yet been completed; and, if so, what is the amount of the estimate?

The preliminary inquiries are not yet complete, and a decision has not, therefore, been reached.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that A. C. 2 Charles H. Bailer, No. 276493, Elope Squadron, Royal Air Force, North Russian Relief Expedition, was sent to Russia against his wish, and that he is not yet nineteen years of age; that such action is a violation of all promises made as to volunteers and age of those going overseas; and will he cable at once for this youth's return?

I am having this case investigated, and will communicate the result to the hon. Member.

Ministry if the aerodrome at Wendover is intended to be a permanent training centre for the Air Force; and, if so, for how many men is it intended to provide?

The answer to the first question is in the affirmative. The answer to the second will depend on the peace strength which may be approved for the Royal Air Force.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private Connorton, No. 22731, 13th Yorkshire Regiment, and several hundred other soldiers serving in Russia were given their Army pay on or about 20th June in rouble notes of the Provisional Government of North Russia which English bankers were instructed on 30th May by the National Emission Casse to refuse to cash unless accompanied by a certificate issued by them or by the British Consul at Murmansk, authorising the holder to present them, and that no such certificates were issued with these notes, so that the notes are not negotiable in this country; whether he is aware that, although bankers reported the matter to the War Office on 24th ultimo, they received no acknowledgment of their letter until the 4th instant, and are still without any instructions as to the steps to be taken to enable soldiers to exchange these notes; and seeing that the Army authorities issued these notes after this embargo had been placed upon them without advising the men of the difficulties of cashing them, if he will take steps to enable these notes to be exchanged at once, as the men are suffering hardship in consequence; and on whose authority such restrictions are placed upon a currency issued with the sanction of the British Government in payment of wages without a warning being given to the receivers that there is a doubt as to their negotiability in England?

The notes in question were issued by the North Russian State Emission Office, which is not responsible to or supported by His Majesty's Government, but is under the control of the Provisional Government of North Russia. The imposition of a condition that a certificate should be required to enable the holder of notes of the State Emission Office to get them cashed outside North Russia was a domestic matter for the Emission Office, which is entitled to take any steps it may consider desirable to prevent undue export of its notes. Arrangements are being made to provide for the immediate encashment through Messrs. Barclay's Bank of the notes already brought to this country by troops returning from Archangel, and to prevent delay in cashing such notes as may be brought in future. These notes can also be exchanged by the troops at Victoria and Waterloo stations.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if by a recent Army Order the officer who has a total of fifteen years' service after the age of eighteen, in the ranks or as a commissioned officer, may be awarded retired pay at £80 per annum, in lieu of any gratuity he would have been eligible for under Army Order 493/19, Royal Warrant 572a; and if this scale of retired pay Is to be proportionately extended as regards the retired pay of ranker officers up to twenty-four years' service?

This point will be considered in connection with the future scale of officers' retired pay.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that temporary clerks in the employ of record offices are only in receipt of a salary of £2 16s. 6d. per week to commence with, which is increased by 1s. 2d. after one year's service, 3s. 6d. after two years' service, and 5s. l1d. after three years service; that their maximum salary is £3 2s. 5d.; and that men who have recently been demobilised are therefore in receipt of less pay than men who have been employed in a civil capacity for over three years, and who have never been in the Service; and whether, having regard to the present cost of living, he will take steps to have the matter adjusted and ensure that a demobilised man shall not receive less than one who has not been in the Army?

The rates in London record offices (to which the question is understood to refer) are, under the latest award of the Conciliation and Arbitration Board, 57s. 8d. in the first year of service, 60s. in the second, and 62s. 5d. in the third and subsequent years. If my hon. Friend's suggestion is that any man who has served in the Army should be advanced at once to the maximum of any scale depending upon length of service, I am afraid I cannot adopt it.

asked the Secretary of State for War why lieutenants doing duty on the establishment of record offices are graded for pay as HH, while some captains on the same establishment receive only regimental pay and allowances; and on what principal are some of these officers graded as FF and GG?

The normal basis of emolument for officers in record offices is regimental pay and allowances. In certain cases officers have been graded for pay otherwise. There is no intention of extending such gradings.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the approximate number of Army or Government huts in this country now or shortly expected to be available for public use, and their probable accommodation?

I have been asked to answer this question. The number of huts at present available for disposal is approximately 2,000. It is understood that a further considerable amount of hutting will be handed over by the War Office in the course of the next few months.

asked the Pensions Minister if his attention has been drawn to the case of Mrs. C. Stewart, widow, Balfron, Stirlingshire, whose son joined the Army when an apprentice in 1914 and when he was the chief support of his mother, and was killed; whether he knows she only receives 12s. 6d. per week, though had he been home again his wage might be £3 or £4 per week; and whether he will increase the pension in keeping with the widow's loss?

Pensions to parents cannot be assessed on the basis or estimated prospective dependence, but my right hon. Friend will inquire into the circumstances of this particular case to ascertain whether Mrs. Stewart's need is such that she ought to receive the maximum pension of 15s.

asked the Pensions Minister if he will inquire into the case of Private Harold Leonard Dawson, No. 566487, late Royal Engineers, 18, Birmingham Road, Oldbury, who has lost both legs and his right arm, is married and has three children; for how long this man has been in receipt of a pension and for what sum, and what was the advice of the Walsall Pensions Committee to Mrs. Dawson on 7th July; and whether he will undertake to hear all the circumstances gone into and matters properly adjusted?

Inquiry will be made into this matter and the hon. and gallant Member will be informed of the result as soon as possible.

asked the Pensions Minister what decision has now been arrived at in the case of Mr. A. Pearce, of 46, Railway Terrace, Southport, late No. 243886, No. 416 Company, Agricultural Corps; and whether, seeing that he was compulsorily transferred to the Agricultural Corps and received permanent injury while on duty with the corps, the pension awarded to him shall not be less generous than that awarded to men of a like disability from wounds received on active service?

The amount of disablement assessed by the medical board in March last was 30 per cent., and the appropriate rate of pension has been awarded, namely, 9s. l0d. a week, including bonus, until the 30th of March, 1920. The case has been treated precisely as would that of a soldier wounded in action, except that, to prevent double compensation, it is necessary to deduct from pension the amount received under the Workmen's Compensation Act?

asked the Pensions Minister by whose authority the Circular 15376A was issued; whether it was a Cabinet decision that men re-engaging or re-enlisting after a short break with their families should not have the advantages given to men re-enlisting without such break; and whether he is aware that the loss of the advantages was not put before men on their re-enlistment?

The Circular referred to embodies the decision of the War Cabinet and was issued with their authority. With regard to the last part of the question, I will read an extract from the Army Order of 1st April, 1919, under which these men were re-enlisted:

"Men who enlist under this Army Order will not be eligible for any grants under the Regulations of the Special Grants Committee of the Ministry of Pensions or the Military Service (Civil Liabilities) Committee."

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Captain A. C. Moreing, 3rd Battalion London Regiment, who was demobilised on the 28th January, 1919, has yet received his gratuity; and, if not, whether steps can be taken to expedite the payment?

I am afraid there has been delay in this case owing to the fact that reference had to be made to Malta,. but the agents will issue the gratuity at once.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Lieut. C. R. Porter, Royal Engineers, whose first medical board consisted of one doctor, who was refused a wound gratuity and who was promised early in May a new board in London, has, up to date, received no intimation as to this board, and that communications sent to the War Office on his behalf have not even been acknowledged; and whether he will have inquiries made into the matter?

This officer has had two boards. A headquarters board has now been arranged for the 14th August. The last letter received from him was answered on the 29th March last.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will consider the question of giving some war bonus or gratuity to the rank and file of the Nigerian troops who served in the Cameroons and German East Africa?

It has been decided to grant a war gratuity at half the rates laid down, for British rank and file in Army Order 17 of 1919 to all native rank and file of the West African Frontier Force, which includes the Nigeria Regiment. This decision was communicated to the West African Governments by telegram on the 19th of June.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether he is in a position to give the names of those who will constitute the Committee which is to report upon the policy, and the means of carrying it out, concerning the discovery of oil in Derbyshire; what the terms of reference will be; and whether the Committee will be asked to report before the Summer Recess?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer which I gave him on Tuesday.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether he is aware that of sixty-two discharged disabled soldiers who had been given employment at the National Aircraft Factory No. 1 at Waddon, alter a course of training, all but twenty-two had been dismissed by the 23rd June last, although men who have not seen a days military service, and many women, are still retained in good positions; that sums amounting in some cases to £20 per head, which had been advanced by the Ministry of Pensions to set these men up in tools, have been practically wasted in consequence; that owing to the inadequacy of the training these men had received, followed by only a few months' engagement on repetition work, they are now greatly handicapped in their search for employment; and whether it would be more in accord with the avowed policy of the Government to discharge, first of all, some of the women and men who had not served, and, instead of dismissing the discharged disabled men, to have given them the option of transfer to an ordnance or other suitable establishment where they could have been put under competent instructors for the completion of their training?

I am calling for a detailed report from this factory, and shall be glad if my hon. and gallant Friend will repeat his question on Tuesday next

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions what was the total capital outlay of the British Cellulose Company on 1st August, 1918; how much of this had been provided by the State, either in rebate of Excess Profits Duty or in any other form, and what were the total liabilities of the State in respect to this outlay; whether any further capital outlay has taken place since 1st August, 1918; and, if so, does any liability rest upon the State to recoup the whole or part of any such outlay?

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer given on: 3rd July to his question on this subject. Until the Committee appointed by the Government have reported I do not think it desirable to make any statement.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions what functions are fulfilled by the Royal Army Service Corps Petrol Wagon Depot, at Cecil Street, Greenheys, Manchester; whether adjacent residents allege that the personnel of the depot use these cars freely for other purposes; and whether he will cause inquiries to be made?

The Ministry of Munitions lorries and cars are garaged in Cecil Street, Greenheys, Manchester. This is entirely a civilian organisation, and has no connection with the Royal Army Service Corps. The cars attached to this depot are utilised for the legitimate business of the Ministry of Munitions, Ministry of Labour, and Controller of Coal Mines. No information has been received of any alleged misuse of the cars by the personnel of the depot, and if the hon. Member can supply any further details I should be only too glad to make full inquiries, and if the misuse exists to see that it is immediately discontinued.

asked the Minister of Health whether, having regard to the importance of matters relating to the hygiene and health of animals used for human food, the provision of milk from cows free from tuberculosis, the diseases of animals communicable to man, and other similar matters affecting or incidental to the health of the people, he will consider the advisability of placing at least one veterinary surgeon on every Consultative Council to be set up under Clause 4 of the Ministry of Health Act?

The hon. Member's suggestion will be borne in mind in considering the composition of councils or special committees dealing with medical and sanitary administration; but I cannot agree that such an appointment would be desirable in the case of every Consultative Council to be set up under the Ministry of Health.

asked the Minister of Health whether it is to be understood that the National Register will be allowed to lapse; and, if so, whether local authorities can be so informed in order that they may make arrangements in advance to discontinue their unnecessary work and expense upon the register?

Yes, Sir; the National Registration Acts will expire on the date of the termination of the present War; and the precise date, as soon as it has been determined by Order in Council, will be made known to local registration authorities. Those authorities are being advised that in the meantime all duties under the Act, whether of the authorities themselves or of the public, may properly be suspended.

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to an inquest held on a woman in Southwark who died from tetanus; whether he is aware that the verdict of the jury recommended that anti-tetanic serum should be supplied to medical officers of health for use in cases of patients suffering from this complaint; and if he will state what action he proposes to take in the matter?

My attention has been called to the inquest referred to. Steps are being taken in the direction indicated in the recommendation of the jury.

asked the Minister of Health whether, since the Housing Bill is designed to deal with slums, he is collecting a list of the worst slum property in London and elsewhere; whether he proposes to publish it; and what action he is taking to stimulate the local authorities to deal with this evil at once?

The Housing Bill contains special provisions relating to slum areas. Information on, the subject is being obtained, and I will consider what Report should be issued on the matter. I may add that a Manual is now being prepared which will contain definite directions how to deal with slum areas and unfit houses.

asked the Minister of Health whether he has received representations from a large body of insured persons living in the district of Whittingham, Northumberland, as to the inadequacy of the medical service available and provided in the district; whether there is no panel doctor within eight miles of the village; and whether he will take steps to improve the administration of medical benefit in the district?

I am causing immediate inquiries to be made as to the facts of this case, with a view to such steps being taken as may prove to be necessary.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the annual deficiency in the water fund of the Metropolitan Water Board now amounts to no less than £511,000 per annum and is equal to a call on the ratepayers in the London county area of approximately 3d. in the £ and will, as from the year 1923–4, be further increased by the sum of £144,000 per annum in respect of the sinking fund for the redemption of the outstanding acquisition debt of the Board; and whether he will appoint a Committee to investigate the administration of the affairs of the Metropolitan Water Board with a view to making recommendations to secure a more economical working of the Board's operations?

I am aware of the position referred to. The matter is now under consideration, but I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

asked the President of the Board of Education whether, having regard to the assistance which voluntary associations are able and willing to give in bringing the Education Act, 1918, into effective operation, and to the importance of enabling them to give such assistance, a statement can be made as to the sums by way of Grant which voluntary associations will receive in the event of their providing continued education approved by the local education authority and the Board of Education in institutions not provided by the local education authority?

The question of the best arrangements for financing continuation schools under the Act of 1918 is under consideration, but I am not in a position to make a statement on the subject at present. Generally speaking, I am disposed to think that the best policy to pursue is that of financing voluntary continuation schools, which the Act places under the direction and control of local education authorities, through the local education authorities.

asked the President of the Board of Education whether, before confirming the new scheme for the administration of the charitable trust known as the Crossley and Porter Orphan House and School at Halifax, he will take steps to safeguard the children between the ages of two and eight so that they may not be deprived of the benefits of the charity?

The scheme has now been confirmed by Act of Parliament which received the Royal Assent on the 3rd June, and it is, therefore, too late for me to reconsider its provisions.

asked the President of the Board of Education (1) if he will consider the advisability of the Prime Minister's speech in the House of Commons on. the Peace Treaty being read by the headmaster to the pupils in the schools of the Kingdom, and afterwards that it should be printed and issued to the schools in order that pupils could have access to it on future occasions;(2) if he will consider the advisability of the Peace Treaty being issued as a textbook in the schools, particularly in view of the fact that this Treaty should be read by every member of the rising generation, in order that they may be familiar with the charter of the new world that was brought about by the sacrifices of our fighting forces and those of our Allies?

I am obliged to the hon. Member for his suggestions in these questions standing in his name. I am doubtful as to their practicability, but I will consider the matter.

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that Mr. A. E. Burroughs, of 14, York Road, Birkdale, Southport, honorary ophthalmic surgeon to the Royal Infirmary, Liverpool, has applied for several months past to have a telephone installed at the above address; and whether, in view of the fact that it is necessary for his practice and that many other telephones have lately been installed in private houses in this neighbourhood, he will expedite this necessary installation?

I am ascertaining whether this telephone installation can be expedited.

asked the Postmaster-General whether the clerks employed in sub-post offices in. the Shepherd's Bush area are paid as little as 45s. per week for 52½ hours; what is tin: wage paid to established Post Office servants for a week of 48 hours in the same district; and what justification exists for this difference in remuneration and conditions?

I beg to refer the hon. Member to my reply to a similar question by the hon. Member for Silver-town on the 7th instant.

asked the Postmaster-General whether the clerks employed in sub-offices in the Chelsea area are paid as little as 25s. for a week of 45 hours; what is the wage paid to established Post Office servants for a week of 48 hours in the same district; and whether he will state the reason for this difference in remuneration and conditions?

I beg to refer the hon. Member to my reply to a similar question by the hon. Member for Silvertown (Mr. J. Jones) on the 7th instant.

asked the Postmaster-General if he has received a memorial from Filey, asking for a better postal service; whether he is aware of the great inconvenience caused by the late delivery in the morning; and what steps he is taking to improve the postal facilities?

I have received the memorial referred to. I regret the inconvenience caused by the late delivery, and if it continues to be impossible to revert to the pre-war train services. I hope to effect some slight improvement during the next week or two.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether, in view of the fact that a K Company pensioner's starting pay in the Post Office is, by reason of the skill acquired by service in the Royal Engineers, higher than it would otherwise have been and that he cannot be granted augmented pay and also pension in respect of the same period of time, he will state why the practice hitherto in force of suspending pensions has been modified, having regard to the fact that such suspensions were expressly agreed to by the representatives of the men concerned in giving evidence before the Holt Committee; whether he is aware that that practice was a factor in securing Mr. Holt's pension recommendation; whether he is aware that other Army pensioned telegraphists in the Post Office, unconnected with K Company, also acquired telegraphic skill by service in other branches of the Army; whether they received higher starting pay than they would have received without the skill; if so, why no part of their pension is deducted; whether he is aware that the augmented pay in the case of K Company is based on the actual length of service attributable to that company in order that a K Company telegraphist shall, when he goes to the Post Office, be on the same financial level as a civilian colleague of equal service and position and that the skill ordinarily attainable by Royal Engineer telegraphists employed in the Post Office is common to all other telegraphists employed therein and by reason of which annual increments are in similar manner common to all; and whether he will consider the advisability, without detriment to any present K Company pensioner, of reverting to the practice sanctioned by the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury on the 28th May, 1898, and of treating the military pensions in the same way during the period of final retirement as recommended by Mr. Holt?

I am aware of no other modification than that referred to in my reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Southampton on the 23rd May last, and that only applied to those men formerly in K Company who are appointed to technical posts in the Engineering Department. Military telegraphists, other than those who have served in K Company, enter at the minimum of the scale of pay (i.e., the twenty-one years of age pay). As to the suggestion in the last part of the question, I would again refer the hon. Member to the answer given on the 23rd May last.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that, in giving evidence before the Holt Committee on Post Office servants, the representatives of ex-K Company telegraphists expressed their acquiescence in the Treasury practice of withholding military pensions earned by service attributable to K Company, on the principle that concurrent pay and pension in respect of the same period of time could not be justified; whether he is aware that they urged that the practice justified their claim to have the principle applied to the period of ultimate retirement also, and to have substituted for the withheld military pension a Civil Service pension on final retirement; whether this was in effect recommended by Mr. Holt; whether the practice has since been modified; and, if so, whether he will consider the advisability of reintroducing the old practice, with a view to the reconsideration of the claim preferred and of the recommendation made in favour of those men?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. and gallant Member for Southampton on the 23rd May last.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will consider the possibility of dating telephone accounts sent to subscribers by the ordinary method; and, if not, whether he will issue instructions that upon communications headed "date as postmark" the details of the postmark shall be legible?

The accounting in connection with the telephone service involves the issue of several hundred thousand small accounts every year, and the insertion of the date in each one by hand would in the aggregate mean a considerable amount of work. I will endeavour to secure that the details of the postmark are more legible.

asked the Postmaster-General whether telegraph messengers employed in the Post Office who were serving as such on enlistment in the Army under the Military Service Act, 1916, and who, during their absence on service, were subsequently appointed to established appointments, were allowed to count the time towards pension from the date of such appointment?

I assume that the hon. and gallant Member refers to boy messengers for whom established appointments as postmen have been reserved during their absence with the forces. In such cases service for purposes of pension is reckoned from the date on which the officer would normally have been placed on the establishment had he not enlisted, provided that on demobilisation he returns to the Post Office service and takes up the duties proper to his established appointment.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller if he is aware that there is a considerable number of persons who have come to this country on business who are, owing to the shortage of vessels placed at the disposal of steamship companies, unable to return to their homes; if he is aware that some of the steamship companies have not had any vessels for fare-paying passengers placed at their disposal since February last; and whether he will take steps to facilitate the return of these people to their homes and businesses?

I am glad of this opportunity of dispelling the opinion, which is apparently somewhat widely held, that the Shipping Controller is responsible for civilian passenger traffic. The functions of the Ministry of Shipping extend solely to Government services, and the Department does not in any way control the private passenger arrangements of the lines. We have to secure that space is available for repatriation and other Government services, and the remainder of the space is at the disposal of the companies. During the period of the demobilisation of the Colonial Forces, and the repatriation of men who came from abroad to join the Imperial forces, the amount of passenger space left at the disposal of the lines has necessarily been very restricted, but Government demands are now diminishing, month by month, and the use of the passenger space, left free, is entirely a matter for the steamship lines.

asked the Minister of Labour whether arrangements can be made to give, where needed and desired, refresher courses in plumbing and other trades to men who have been demobilised in order to enable them to resume their occupations?

Arrangements for giving refresher courses to demobilised men are under consideration, and it is hoped to make an announcement on the subject at an early date.

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the dissatisfaction which exists at Farnworth, through the action of the manager of the Farnworth Labour Exchange; if he is aware that on 16th June the winding engines at the Great Lever Colliery broke down and the men had to play; that some of the men lived in Farnworth and some in Bolton; that the men signed on at the Labour Exchanges for out-of-work benefits; on Friday, 20th June, the manager of the Farnworth Exchange put up a notice that the Great Lever miners must sign on Saturday, 21st June, or they would not receive benefits for that day; that the Lancashire and Cheshire Miners' Federation held a demonstration at Blackpool on that day, and all arrangements had been made for the Great Lever miners to take part, which they did, and have been deprived of their benefit for that day, though the miners who lived in Bolton have been paid, but did not sign for 21st June; that the manager at Farnworth Exchange suspended the miners' benefits from Friday, 27th June, though the miners in the Bolton area wore paid up to 2nd July; that the manager of the Farnworth Exchange issued forms to the men to go and get work at the Colliers Green collieries, a distance of thirty miles away from their homes, and that they went and got work at these collieries but could not get lodgings, and had to come back home; and if he will make inquiries into this ease with a view to the men being paid, and also that when men are sent to work away from home he will see that proper living accommodation is provided?

I am making inquiries into the cases referred to by the hon. Member, and will let him know the result as soon as possible.

asked the Minister for Labour whether a disabled soldier at Tredegar has been refused the poet of manager of a local agency of the Unemployment Exchange, notwithstanding his compliance with all the requirements; whether the position has been given to an applicant already in possession of several lucrative businesses; and will he take steps to cancel the appointment so as to fulfil the nation's pledge to the soldier?

In view of the increased work falling upon the Tredegar office, in consequence of the arrangements for demobilisation and resettlement, it was proposed to appoint a full-time branch manager of the Ministry of Labour employment office at Tredegar, in lieu of the existing part-time officer, and the candidates for the post included a discharged soldier. The qualifications of this discharged soldier were not such as to fit him for the post, and after careful consideration of all the applicants, it was decided that, for the present, the appointment of the existing part-time branch manager, Who had held the post for two years, should be continued. No new appointment was therefore made.

asked the Minister of Labour what the Government intend doing in the case of discharged and disabled soldiers who, at the instigation of the Government, have learned a trade, but who now cannot obtain employment because they do not belong to a trades union and whose admittance to same is refused by the trade union officials?

Agreements made with representatives of employers and trade unions, and embodied in printed reports, provide for the admission of disabled ex-Service men to certain trades if they carry out the conditions laid down in the reports. The preliminary training in institutions and the placing of men in workshops for the completion of their training are supervised by local technical advisory committees, on which the trade unions concerned are represented. If the hon. Member knows cases where trade union officials have objected to the employment of men trained in accordance with the agreed conditions, I shall be glad if he will send me details. In a number of instances where training has not conformed to those conditions it may be necessary for the men to take a further course before they are qualified for normal employment, credit being given for the value of the training already received, as, assessed by the local technical advisory committee.

asked the Minister of Labour whether discharged soldiers have been prevented from obtaining employment owing to the action of local trades unions; and, if so, what is being done to enable such men to obtain employment?

I have dealt with the question of the absorption of disabled men who have been trained in accordance with trade agreements in my answer to the hon. and gallant Member for Winchester. With regard to ordinary ex-Service men, cases have occurred in which there has been trade union opposition to their employment. It is my practice, as such cases come to my notice, to inquire into them with a view to getting rid of the difficulty.

asked the Minister of Labour if he has considered the policy of publishing locally lists of manufacturers who have taken on partially-disabled soldiers with the object of stimulating others to follow their example; and whether he will give the numbers of disabled men who have actually been so taken on either by their previous employers or by others?

I hope shortly to be in a position to announce the details of a scheme for the employment of disabled ex-Service men in industry generally. In this connection I am in favour of publishing locally the names of employers who cooperate. With regard to the second part of the hon. Member's question, the number of men in receipt of disablement pensions was 770,000 on 1st July, 1919. The number registered as unemployed at Employment Exchanges in the United Kingdom on the 6th June, 1919, was 43,501. Of the remainder it is estimated that, roughly, 50 per cent. have returned to their previous employers; the balance (with the exception of those undergoing training) must be supposed to have found new employment.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has decided to strengthen the local advisory committees by the addition of soldier representatives, so that they will carry more conviction and have the value of expert assistance?

On the assumption that the hon. Member is referring to representatives of discharged men, the reply is that action on the lines indicated by the hon. Member was taken within a few months of the establishment of the committees. Representatives of the various associations of discharged and demobilised men are now serving on approximately 80 per cent. of these committees, and, in addition, these associations are strongly represented on the sub-committees specially concerned with the interests of discharged men. I am now dealing with those cases where these men are not at present represented.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if he will take steps to stop the Army Forage Department exporting hay from the United Kingdom as soon as practicable; also that all stocks held by the Army Forage Department over and above what they require for home consumption up to November next be handed over for civilian use?

I have been asked to answer this question. The export of hay from the United Kingdom to the forces overseas will cease as soon as practicable, but it is not possible to assign a date for this at present. With regard to the latter part of the question, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for Yeovil (Lieut.-Colonel A. Herbert) on the 2nd July, to the effect that the suggestion is not feasible, as hay is required for the forces overseas, in addition to such local stocks as are available in the countries concerned.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture the days and hours that Kew Gardens are open to the public free and for payment; what is the charge to the public; whether, in view of the small number using the gardens on paying days, he will increase the number of hours of free admission; if the gardens are open on Sunday and during what hours and on what conditions; and if any restrictions are placed upon photographers, and what they are?

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, are open to the public on every day in the year except Christmas Day. The hours during which the gardens are open are:

• From 15th May to 15th October, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., or one hour before sunset, whichever is earlier.
• From 16th October to 14th May, noon to 8 p.m., or one hour before sunset, whichever is earlier.
• Sundays and Good Friday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., or one hour before sunset, whichever is earlier.
• The expression "one hour before sunset" applies only to the period of official summer time. During the remaining period of the year the gardens are closed at 8 p.m. or sunset, whichever is earlier. The charges for admission are:
• On Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sunday and Good Friday, 1d.
• On Tuesdays and Fridays, except Good Friday (students' days), 6d.
• There are no free days. [The proposal to have free days was negatived by the-Treasury on financial grounds.]

A charge of 3d. is made for the admission of photographic apparatus. The restrictions placed on photographers will be found in paragraphs 2, 6, 7, and 8 of a printed leaflet, a copy of which has been sent to my hon. Friend.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that returned soldiers who have applied through the Kent County Council for land, each in his own parish, in the Romney Marsh, Kent, have been outbid by farmers who, not having had to join the forces, have improved their financial position, and who conse- quently have been able to buy up all the cottages and more land than they could cultivate or find sufficient labour for; can he state why civilian fathers and brothers of ex-Service men are unable to obtain small holdings from their parish councils as in pre-war days; whether at the present time small holders who live in a farmer's cottage are obliged to work for the farmer or to run the risk of being turned out of their cottage; and whether action can be taken to help all Romney Marsh smallholders by the purchase of a large farm and cottages in some central place like St. Mary's, where instruction and loan of Implements could be given?

The Board are aware that in many cases county councils are finding difficulties in purchasing land at auction, owing to the high prices that are being paid by tenant farmers and others. Civilians can still apply to county councils for small holdings as in pre-war days, but the councils are required to' give a preference to applications from ex-Service men. With regard to the third part of the question, the operation of the Increase of Rent and Mortgage Interest (War Restrictions) Acts should have removed any apprehension on the part of tenants of cottages as to the risk of eviction. With regard to the last part of the question, the Board have been informed by the Kant County Council that they are considering the question of the acquisition of a considerable acreage in the Romney Marsh district for the provision of small holdings.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that arrangements are being made for the deportation of Miss May Kathleen Ydlibi and her father from their internment in France to Turkey; whether he is aware that Miss May Kathleen Ydlibi is a British subject and should presumably be repatriated to Great Britain; whether he can see his way to approach the French authorities to allow the family solicitors, Messrs. Enever and Aarons, to proceed to France in order to settle the domestic arrangements of this family and to have access to these persons; and whether, in communicating with the French authorities, he will request their retention in that country until their business affairs have been settled?

Further investigations are being made into the case of Miss Ydlibi, and I regret that until they have been carried out I am unable to reply in detail. I hope, however, to be able to make a further statement before very long.

asked the Attorney-General whether he is aware that in the case of a domiciled Irishman who holds shares in a registered English company it is necessary to have the probate of his will resealed in England at considerable cost, although all duties payable to the Crown on his property have been already paid in Ireland; and whether he proposes to take steps to enable the grant of probate by the Irish Court to be acted on in England?

Grants of representation made in one part of the United Kingdom are operative only in respect of assets in that part. To avoid the necessity of a fresh grant being obtained in another part of the United Kingdom in which the deceased also possessed assets, provision was made by 20 and 21 Viet., c. 79, sec. 95 (as to Ireland), and by 21 and 22 Viet., c. 56, sec. 12 (as to Scotland), that grants made in those countries could be resealed in England and thereafter be of like force and effect and have the same operation in England as if they had been originally granted by the Court in England. I should be surprised to find that the "resealing" which is required involves "considerable cost," nor am I satisfied that Irish probates should be rendered effective in England without some sort of confirmation by the English Court.