Written Answers
Peace Negotiations
asked the Prime Minister whether before the House rises he will be able to make a statement as to the progress of the later Peace negotiations in Paris; whether he will also give some idea as to when the three outstanding treaties with Austria, Bulgaria, and Turkey will be concluded; and whether the Entente Powers will take into consideration the desirability of specifying a time-limit to wind up these protracted negotiations?
It is not possible to make a statement on this subject at present.
London Squares
asked the Prime Minister if, in view of the fact that a number of London squares are still closed to the public during August, he will introduce legislation making it obligatory upon all owners of squares to open their squares for the use and enjoyment of children during the month of August?
The open spaces in question are private property. It must be clear to the hon. and gallant Member that in any case it would be impracticable to secure legislation on this subject before the Recess.
Roumania (British Interests)
asked the Prime Minister whether this country is now represented in Roumania by an Ambassador ; if not, by whom it is represented both for diplomatic purposes and trade purposes; whether anything and, if so, what is being done at the present moment to replace Germany and Austria as suppliers and purveyors of a very considerable number of manufactured articles into Roumania; and whether any reports have been received as to France seeking to obtain a monopoly right to exploit Roumanian State lands for petroleum and the United States of America seeking to obtain a monopoly for the export of petroleum, all of which would be a serious prejudice to British interests?
I have been asked to reply. Great Britain is now represented in Roumania by Mr. Rattigan, Chargé d'Affaires. Mr. A. A. Adams, lately of H.M. Consular Service, has recently taken up his duties as Commercial Secretary to the British Legation in Bucharest, and Consular Officers are at present stationed in Roumania. The promotion of trade between this country and Roumania is the primary function of the Commercial Secretary and of the Consular Officers, working in conjunction with the Department of Oversea Trade in this country. The great difficulty in the way of the development of British trade with Roumania is the situation in that country, which at present makes payment for British exports in sterling almost impossible. A scheme which will help to tide over this difficulty in Roumania and other countries similarly situated, pending the re-establishment of exports from those countries, is now under consideration, and a further statement on this subject will be made as soon as possible. No Reports have been received to the effect indicated in the last part of the question.
Income Tax (Co-Operative Societies)
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been drawn to the purchase of a large farm in South Northumberland by a co operative society; whether the produce of this farm will now compete free of all Income Tax against the produce of individual farmers, who pay double Income Tax on their rent; and, if so, is there any intention of altering the law to place co-operative and individual enterprise of this kind on an equal footing?
The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. If my hon. Friend will refer to the provisions of Section 39, Sub-section (4), of the Income Tax Act, 1918, he will see that the exemption from Income Tax conferred upon co-operative societies within the scope of the Sub-section is confined to Schedules C and D of the Income Tax Acts, and does not afford relief from the tax chargeable in respect of the ownership or occupation of land.
Customs And Excise (Ex-Soldiebs)
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been called to the so called opening for ex-soldiers in the Customs and Excise, and that in Liverpool there are a number of ex-Service men who have been studying for months, in order to submit themselves to the examinations for these positions in the Customs and Excise, and that now all their applications are found to be ineffectual because they were not at school up to the age of seventeen years; whether he is aware that there was an interim scheme which did not require this condition and under which these men were eligible, but that this interim scheme has been dropped and a reconstruction scheme substituted, and that such reconstruction scheme states that, if a man has been in a Government office from the age of fifteen years and two months, he need not have been at school until seventeen ; and whether he can see his way to allow these men to present themselves for the examination which they have been led to believe they were eligible for, in order that injustice may not be done to ex-soldiers who have put in five months' hard study in order to qualify?
The interim scheme of appointment for posits as officers of Customs and Excise was a temporary measure adopted to give some immediate assistance to the Department pending the holding of a competitive selection under the Reconstruction Regulations. The scheme provided for a limited number of vacancies to be filled on z purely tempor- ary basis, the candidates so appointed being required to pass a qualifying examination six months after taking up duty, instead of before selection. Under this scheme seventy-two officers were selected out of 1,500 applicants; the scheme was then closed. The unsuccessful candidates, were informed that they might apply for appointment under the Reconstruction Scheme, and full instructions were sent to them in regard to the conditions of candidature under that scheme. These conditions included the requirement in regard to systematic and continuous education up to the age of seventeen, which was set out in the Regulations issued when the scheme was first announced, and I cannot accept responsibility for any action taken by candidates who started studying for the competition without examining the conditions prescribed. The Regulations have now been amended so as to provide that the requirement as to full time education up to the age of seventeen shall be waived where the candidate entered the Forces at an earlier age, if his full time education continued up to the time of his joining the Forces; but having regard to the fact that there are only about 200 vacancies for these posts and some 5,000,000 potential candidates, no further modification could be agreed to without making the heavy-task of the Selection Board impossible.
Probate Registry
asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether there is any suggestion for the transfer of the old wills, etc., from Somerset House? to the Record Office; and, in view of the quickness of service at Somerset House and the long delays at the Pubic Record Office, will he have this move, if contemplated, reconsidered in the interest of the public?
So far as I am aware, no suggestion has been made for moving the Probate Registry to the Public Record Office.
Food Supplies
Maize
asked the Food Controller whether the Royal Commission on Wheat Supply have cancelled sales of maize td farmers in this country in order that it may be sent to Ireland; and, if so, for what reason?
The Royal Commission on Wheat Supplies do not sell maize to farmers. Urgent circumstances recently made it necessary to divert a steamer with maize from Hull to an Irish port; another steamer was immediately instructed to load maize for Hull, and the trade have been advised of this.
Potato Crop, 1918
asked the Food Controller if he will state the quantities of unconsumed surplus potatoes of the 1918 crop claimed for by growers against the Ministry of Food as at 30th June, 1919, in England and Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, respectively; the respective cash amounts represented by such claims; the respective actual cash losses to the Ministry of Food by such claims; and the cost of administration of the control of the 1918potato crop in England and Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, respectively?
On the 30th June, 1919, the potato crop for 1918 had been entirely cleared in Ireland and Wales. The surplus in England on that date was 20,000 tons and in Scotland 51,000 tons; these potatoes have now been disposed of, with the exception of a small surplus. A proportion of the loss on the potato crop will fall to be borne by foreign Governments, and it is impossible to furnish a financial statement at present.
Salvage Services (Bonuses)
asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if he has any further information available as to the payment of bonuses to crews of dockyard tugs or the dockyard salvage party for services rendered to Government-owned and chartered vessels and vessels upon which liability was accepted, in consequence of which no claims for salvage were allowed?
The question is being carefully considered. When a final decision is reached, I will communicate with my hon. Friend.
Royal Dockyards (Additional Leave)
asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if, in view of the fact that the W.O. 782/19 states that the additional leave with pay is to apply to all grades of employés, including those who are entitled to an annual allowance of ordinary leave with pay, he will state whether the established men in His Majesty's dockyards are to be granted the six days' leave with pay, the same as other recognised Civil servants?
The Weekly Order referred to by my hon. Friend states that the grant of additional leave with pay applies to all grades of employés who are entitled to receive in 1919 an annual allowance of ordinary leave with pay. The grant of the additional leave will, therefore, be confined to such of the employés as are entitled to receive in 1919 an allowance of ordinary leave with pay in addition to the four public holidays. It is not proposed to extend the grant to those employés who are not so entitled.
Demobilisation
1914 Men
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Farrier-Sergeant J. Plews, No. 252478, 528th Company. Royal Army Service Corps, Highland Divisional Train, enlisted in 1914 and is now refused release on the grounds that the orders relating to the demobilisation of 1914 men do not apply to artificers; and whether he will give instructions for his immediate released
I am informed that the divisional train in which this non-commissioned officer is serving is due to arrive in England in the course of a few days, and orders have been issued that all the demobilisable men are to be released. If Sergeant Plews' length of service is as stated by my hon. and gallant Friend, he will be demobilised accordingly. There are no reservations to the orders for release of 1914 men.
Men In India
asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the detention in India of 1914 men in consequence of shortage of transport, he will consider the possibility of demobilising in India such of these men as may be desired to be released in that country?
It was laid down in the original demobilisation Regulations that applications from officers and soldiers serving abroad to be demobilised locally would be considered by the General Officer Commanding concerned, who in dealing with such applications takes cognisance of each applicant's financial standing or promise of employment. This procedure is being followed at the present time.
Compassionate Grounds
asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the widespread dissatisfaction caused by the continued refusal to allow the discharge, on compassionate grounds, of a soldier who is the only son and sole support of a widowed mother in delicate health and advanced in years; that there are a large number of these cases; and will he have the matter immediately reconsidered with a view to the concession being granted?
An extension of the Regulations governing releases on compassionate grounds is now under consideration. If it is found possible to extend these instructions, cases such as that instanced by my hon. Friend will be provided for in the. new Regulations.
Students
asked the Secretary of State for War whether the demobilisation of students will be accelerated so as to enable those whose careers have been interrupted to resume their scholastic and college courses in October next?
I regret that I cannot authorise the release of any of the men referred to by my hon. Friend unless they are eligible for demobilisation under current regulations.
Order Of Release
asked the Secretary of State for War if he will consider the demobilisation of men who have work to go to at once and may have joined up late rather than the demobilisation of other men who have no work to return to?
The release of all men is dependent upon whether or not they are eligible under the Regulations governing demobilisation, and I regret that I cannot authorise the release of others, to the prejudice of men of long service, and those who have been repeatedly wounded, or who are over the stipulated age.
Royal Army Medical Corps (Officers)
asked the Secretary of State for War (1) if he is aware that the contract under which a number of medical practitioners hold temporary commissions in the Royal Army Medical Corps will expire on the date on which the termination of the War is officially declared; and what arrangements have been made to enable those practitioners now serving in India and Mesopotamia to return to this country immediately on the termination of their contracts?(2) if he will state under what authority medical and other officers are being temporarily retained in India; and what steps are being taken to ensure the immediate release of those medical officers who were marked for early demobilisation by the Ministry of National Service prior to April of this year?
asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that Royal Army Medical Corps officers in India serving under yearly contracts are to be demobilised previously to those who volunteered for the duration of the War, he will consider the claim to compensation of officers of the latter category whose practices, which they have built up by their exertions and for which they paid substantial sums, have been virtually ruined and absorbed by the large number of medical officers demobilised from France and other theatres of war; and whether he will state how many temporary medical officers, exclusive of sick, have been sent home from India since the Armistice and how many remain in India?
Temporary medical officers are being retained in India under the terms of their contracts which render them liable for service for the duration of the present emergency. The only officers who are serving on yearly contracts are those who are not liable to the Military Service Act and cannot therefore be retained beyond the termination of their contracts. The contracts of temporary officers serving for the duration of the present emergency terminate on the statutory date for the end of the War, and everything possible will be done to enable them to be returned to the United Kingdom by that date. In the event of this being effected, the question of compensation does not arise. One hundred and forty-five temporary, special reserve, and territorial force officers (exclusive of sick), have been sent home since the Armistice, and 335 remain, including 100 officers temporarily detained while en route from Mesopotamia, on account of the situation prevailing in India. I would add that every available medical officer who is liable for further service is being placed under orders for India or Egypt in order no relieve those who have been asked for by the Ministry of National Service.
Royal Engineer Signallers
asked the Secretary of State for War what steps have been taken to release the men who have been serving for long periods with the Royal Engineers (Signals) in India and Egypt; whether it is now possible for the Southern telegraphists to handle in a reliable and expeditious manner the whole of the telegraph work which is necessary to the War Office military organisation; and whether he will give an assurance that the Royal Engineers' signallers shall be released on the same lines and under the same conditions as the men in all other units?
I am making inquiries and will write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.
Post Office Telegraphists
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can now state the result of his inquiries into the case of Sapper F. Charrett, No. 191475, L Signal Battalion, A.P.O. 3, Rouen; and whether he will give a definite assurance that age will be taken into account in considering the demobilisation of all Post Office telegraphists?
My inquiries are not yet complete, but I hope to be in a position to write to the hon. Member regarding this case in the course of the next few days.
War Office
Intelligence Department
asked the Secretary of State for War what is the present strength and cost of the Intelligence Department of the War Office?
The strength of the Intelligence Department of the War Office on the 1st August was as follows:
| Officers | … | … | … | 153 |
| Other ranks | … | … | … | 20 |
| Civilians— | ||||
| Men | … | … | 189 | |
| Women | … | … | 523 | |
| 717 | ||||
| The cost is £220,000 per annum. | ||||
Administrative Charges
asked the Secretary of State for War whether the administrative charges of the War Office in 1911 amounted to £443,000; and what is the estimate for this year?
The expenditure under the War Office Vote (Vote 12 of the Army Estimates) in 1911–12 was £432,000. The corresponding charges for the current year depend not only on numbers now in course of reduction, but very largely upon the rates of pay for officers and men, not yet settled. I cannot usefully give any estimate at present.
Surplus Government Stores
asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state why of the 5,109,625 yards of tartan held by the War Office none has been declared surplus?
This is dependent on various important points of policy, decisions on which are expected to be reached shortly, as stated in my reply on Tuesday last.
asked the Secretary of State for War why there is in stock 318½ tons of unserviceable cotton material; why it is unserviceable; and what was the total cost to the War Office of this quantity?
The stock in question consisted of accumulations of unserviceable and worn-out clothing and stores such as old cotton drawers and shirts, cotton, corduroy garments, etc.
asked the Secretary of State for War the total quantity of khaki cloth (yards) in various colours, and the total number of suits of the same material, held in stock by the War Office?
I would refer ray hon. Friend to the statement which I circulated in answer to his question on Tuesday last, where he will find the figures he requires. What is popularly known as khaki cloth— more correctly described as Service dress material—comprises serge and tartan, used for service dress jackets and trousers respectively, and whipcord and other materials used for breeches or pantaloons. The colour of all these materials is khaki.
Medical Officers
asked the Secretary of State for War the number of new medical officers which have been obtained by the War Office upon the consolidated rates of pay offered at the commencement of July of this year?
The number of new medical officers obtained is twenty-seven.
Soldiers' Uniforms (Stage Plays)
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will take steps to enforce the prohibition of any person wearing any exact uniform in the course of a stage play performed in a place duly licensed or authorised for the public performance of stage-plays, or in the course of a music-hall or circus performance; and whether he will communicate with the licensing authorities?
I am not aware of any express prohibition to the effect referred to by my lion, and gallant Friend, apart from the general provision in the Defence of the Realm Regulations forbidding the unauthorised wearing of uniforms. The Uniforms Act, 1894, specially provides that this enactment shall not prevent any persons from wearing any uniform or dress in the course of a stage play, performed in a place duly licensed or authorised for the public performance of stage plays, or in the course of a music-hall or circus performance."
Cadet Corps
asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the fact that every Cadet Corps has to pay for uniform, arms, and instruction, and also messing, during training in camp ; and what steps he is prepared to take to remedy this, and so encourage the enthusiasm of the youth of the country?
The whole question of Cadet Corps is under consideration.
Derby Scheme Recruits (Foreign Service)
asked the Secretary of State for War why Private W. Creese, No. 46540, 2/7th Royal Warwickshire Regiment, has been ordered to join his regiment in going to the East; whether this man, as a Derby recruit, who attested in 1915 and was called up in 1916, is covered by the 16th July, 1919, letter of the Secretary of State for War, which states that no Derby man shall be sent further from home than the Army of the Rhine; and, as this man is now on leave at 16, Hanham Road, Kingswood, Bristol, will he see that he is notified accordingly?
I am making inquiries, and will let my hon. Friend know the result as soon as possible.
Army And Royal Air Forces (Statistics)
asked the Secretary of State for War the total number of men who have served in the Army and Royal Air Forces from the commencement of the War till November, 1918, and the total number discharged from these Services to the end of July, 1919; the total number discharged invalided to the same date; the total number receiving pensions who were discharged not invalided; and the total number discharged not invalided who have applied for pensions but whose pensions have not yet been awarded?
The figures asked for in the first three parts of my hon. and gallant Friend's question are as follows:
| Number of men who have served in the Army and Royal Air Force from the commencement of the War till November, 1918 | 5,756,252 |
| Number discharged or demobilised to the end of July, 1919 | 3,719,950 |
| Number discharged invalided to the end of July, 1919 | 722,903 |
March, 1918. As regards the last two parts of the question, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions.
Russia (Military Operations)
asked the Secretary of State for War what is the estimated cost of our operations in Russia, and also the estimated cost of munitions of war, food, or money sent in support of Russian military operations since the date of the Armistice to 1st July, 1919?
The rough estimate which my right hon. Friend promised was published this morning as Command Paper 307.
asked the Prime Minister when he will publish the estimate of the cost of the wars in Russia?
The estimate which I promised was published this morning as Command Paper 307.
Foreign Press (Daily Review)
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the great value that the daily review of the foreign Press has been during the War and at the present time; and whether he can ensure its continuance with all possible economies and, if necessary, with some arrangement with the Foreign Office?
I would refer to the statement made by my right hon. Friend in the Debate on Tuesday evening, to the effect that directions have been given which will ensure the extinction, without leaving a trace behind, of this admirable Department, which has done most excellent work, and which is an organism the lack of which and the loss of which we shall live to regret, but which we simply cannot afford to keep going at present.
Army Commanders (Pay And Cash Allowances)
asked the Secretary of State for War (l) what has been the total amount of pay and allowances paid to each of the Army commanders who received special Grants from Parliament during the five years 1914–15, 1915–16, 1916–17, 1917–18, and 1918–19;(2) what were the total emoluments, including allowances, paid during each of the years, 1914–15, 1915–16, 1916–17, 1917–18, and 1918–19 to each of the field-marshals and generals who have been, voted special Grants by Parliament?
The total amount of pay and cash allowances drawn by the general officers referred to between 5th August, 1914, and 31st July, 1919 (except where earlier dates are shown), is as follows:
| Field-Marshal Sir Douglas Haig | £26,200 |
| Field-Marshal Viscount French (up to 8th May, 1918) | £19,800 |
| Field-Marshal Sir E. H. H. Allenby | £19,100 |
| Field-Marshal Sir H. C. O. Plumer (up to 31st May, 1919) | £18,700 |
| Field-Marshal Sir H. H. Wilson | £14,900 |
| General Sir H. S. Rawlinson | £17,600 |
| General Sir J. Byng | £15,100 |
| General Sir H. S. Horne. | £15,300 |
| General Sir W. Robertson | £18,400 |
| General Sir W. R. Birdwood | £15,600 |
Army Schoolmasters
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will expedite the final sanction of the scheme for improvement in status, etc., of the Army schoolmasters and so remove the anomalies now existing by which highly qualified professional men are under the jurisdiction of individuals who have neither practical, professional, nor academical qualifications, but who take the credit for the work actually done by the Army schoolmasters?
As I have already stated, a scheme is under consideration, but it is not possible to say at present at what date it will come into operation.
Signal Units (Post Office Servants)
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Officer Commanding General Headquarters, Great Britain, Signal Company has informed all the men under his command that they can volunteer for further service without permission from the Postmaster-General, and that their civil pay will not be affected; and whether his statement is in accordance with the published Civil Service Regulations?A question in similar terms stood upon the Order Paper in the name of Mr. R. RICHARDSON.
As notified in Army Council Instruction No. 242 of 1919, dated 7th April last, Post Office Civil servants serving with signal units may volunteer for further service without obtaining the permission of the head of their Department. Any question relating to their civil pay or the Civil Service Regulations applicable to them should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General.
Nottinghamshire Volunteers (Boots)
asked the Secretary of State for War what is the percentage of volunteers in the five units covering the county of Nottinghamshire who have accepted the offer of their second-hand boots at 25s. per paid?
This information is not available in the War Office, but it is being obtained, and I will write to my hon. Friend in due course.
Troops' Water Supply, Mundesley
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the application of the Mundesley Parish Council for remuneration in respect of water supplied to troops during the four years ending November, 1918, which was approved and recommended by the local military authorities on 6th November, 1918, has yet been dealt with; and whether the personal attention which he stated on 21st March and 19th July, 1919, he was giving to this matter has yet approached any decision?
My hon. and gallant Friend has, no doubt, received my letter of the 1st August telling him what has been approved.
Royal Army Service Corps (Women Motor Drivers)
asked the Financial Secretary to the Wax Office how many women are being trained as Royal Army Service Corps motor drivers; and what is their training allowance and their pay when trained?
There are at present 184 women under training. They receive 25s. a week less the cost of food and accommodation whilst undergoing training. When fully trained their pay is 38s. to 41s. a week, less deductions for any accommodation, etc., which may be provided.
asked the Secretary of State for War whether the War Office is sending over 1,000 girl motor drivers to France; and, if so, why this is being done?
These women motor-drivers are being sent to France to meet a temporary emergency. The maximum number required is estimated to be 1,000, but only 500 are required at present. They are being sent to enable the undertakings regarding the release of demobilisable men to be kept. They will be employed mainly in driving ambulances. Their services will be dispensed with as soon as this is rendered possible by the reduction of the force in France and the increase in the number of Regular personnel of the Royal Army Service Corps (Mechanical Transport) available.
Woolwich Arsenal (Compensation Claim)
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to the case of Miss Frances Frost, of Tollesbury, Essex, who, whilst acting as examiner of explosives at Woolwich, was injured by an accident from explosion in the course of her employment so long ago as January, 1917; whether, at the request of the Woolwich authorities, her claim was entered twenty months ago and is not yet settled; and whether, in view of the inability of the claimant to resume employment, the settlement of compensation on fair terms will be made without further delay?
I have been asked to reply to this question. Miss Frost was injured through the upsetting of a bottle of acid on the 30th January, 1907. She has received weekly compensation under the Government scheme for various periods of total incapacity for work between January, 1917, and the present time, and for the remainder of the period, I understand, she has been employed by the Department, with average earnings exceeding her pre-injury average earnings. She was discharged on the 26th July, 1919, on reduction of establishment, and the question as to the payment of any further compensation to her is at present before the Treasury for decision under the scheme.
Chilwell Storage Depot
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office what is the strength of the staff at the Chilwell Storage Depot; and how many officers, and of what rank, are attached to this depot?
The strength of the staff at present employed at Chilwel is 2,223. There are fifteen officers, and their ranks arc as follows:
| Lieut.-Colonels | … | … | 2 |
| Majors | … | … | 2 |
| Captains | … | … | 4 |
| Lieutenants | … | … | 7 |
Naval And Military Pensions And Grants
Applications (Delay)
asked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that there is considerable feeling in the Eastwood district, Notts, owing to the delay in dealing with the applications sent in; and whether he will consider the advisability of increasing the number of the committee and the appointment of a full-time secretary to serve the parishes of Eastwood, Greasley, Brinsley, Kimberley, and Watnall?
I will have inquiry made into this matter, and will inform the hon. Member of the result.
Deceased Soldier's Mother
asked the Pensions Minister whether Private Alistair M'Donal, No. 121102, Lothian and Border Horse, was discharged on 1st May, 1918, with a pension of 19s. 3d. per week; whether, while drawing his pension, he was admitted to Seaford Hospital, but was sent home incurable, and died on 26th October, 1918; if he is aware that this man was the support of his widowed mother, who drew 19s. per week while he was serving, and that she has received no pension and all letters to the Ministry remain unacknowledged ; and whether anything is to be done for her?
I cannot admit the facts stated in the question, but I regret to find that there has been inexcusable delay. Immediate steps are now being taken to award a pension to Mrs. M'Donal, and a telegram has been sent to her local committee authorising them to make her advances in the meantime.
Cases Under Inquiry
asked the Secretary of State for War why Sergeant Steward, late No. 37453, Royal Field Artillery, has not been paid amounts due to him as a rough rider, in view of the fact that he was appointed rough rider in October, 1914, and continued so until his discharge on 23rd March, 1918?
I am having inquiries made, and will inform my hon. Friend of the result.
Service Pensions
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Sergeant Alexander M'Donald, No. 4107, 1st Highland Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, was discharged from the Army on 29th September, 1902, after having completed 12 years' service, joined the Territorial Force in 1908, was mobilised at the outbreak of war, and was discharged on account of disability on 2nd August, 1916, and has been refused a service pension; and whether he will take steps to have a pension awarded to M'Donald?
The records of this man's service have been carefully examined. Some parts of it do not count as qualifying service for service pension, with the result that he is not entitled.
Proficiency Pay
asked the Secretary of State for War whether Thomas M'Convey, 106, White Street, Govan, who enlisted on 10th October, 1899, 1st Battalion Scots Guards No. 3,043, F Company, and was discharged 17th October, 1911, has male application for first-class proficiency pay; whether he is aware that to every statement he has sent containing above particulars he receives a form asking him to state particulars; and whether he is prepared to state what further particulars are required or when an investigation into the claims of this man will be commenced?
The Paymaster reports that he informed the man last month that he is entitled only to Class II. Proficiency Pay. A further answer is being sent to him to-day from the War Office.
Soldier's Allowance (Private T Parkinson)
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will inquire into the delay in transferring the allowance in respect of Private T. Parkinson, No. 42917, 177 P.O.W. Company, Army Pay Office, to his sister, Margaret Parkinson, as this matter has been delayed for several?
Inquiries are being made, and I will write to the hon. Member as soon as I am in a position to do so.
Officers' Pensions (Commutation)
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that the Army Order 316, of 1014, which partially stopped commutation of officers' pensions, has not been revolted; whether he proposes issuing a new Army Order to the effect that the commutation of officers' pensions has been re-opened, and stating the conditions, so that officers about to retire may know what are the official regulations now current which govern commutation of pensions?
A new Army Order, on the lines suggested, is about to be issued.
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether officers who retired before the amended Regulations of 1919 became operative will, if they so desire, be allowed to commute down to £80 a year or half their pension, seeing that £80 was the limit laid down in the Royal Warrant for Pay, 1914, Article 514, as one of the conditions governing commutation of pension?
The limit of £80 has been raised to £100 after careful con- sideration, and I am not prepared to make any change. There is no vested right in the matter, as the Royal Warrant states clearly that commutations are subject to such conditions as may from time to time be laid down by the Army Council.
Civil Liabilities (Business Grant)
asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to the case of F. Crozier, of Heybridge Basin, Maldon, Essex, a demobilised soldier, who has claimed from the military service, civil loss of a business in which he was engaged before joining the Army, and assistance to re-establish his business; whether the Department has recognised the justice of this claim by making him a grant at the rate of £10 per annum for three months, payable in monthly instalments, accompanied by the statement that an appeal for extension would be entertained only if proper accounts as to the transactions in his business have been kept for the period covered by the grant; and whether, in view of the inadequacy of a grant at the rate of 5s. per week to a demobilised soldier in re-establishing his business, he will have inquiries made into this case with a view to assisting the man with a proper lump sum to purchase the necessary tools to re-establish his business, destroyed in consequence of the War?
I have been asked to answer this question. I am making inquiries, and will communicate the result to the hon. Member as soon as possible.
Army Of Occupation Bonus
asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether officers who were serving under the Colonial Office in British East Africa and British Central Africa, and who were retained for the machinery of demobilisation, are entitled to the Army of Occupation bonus; if so, what Department is responsible for payment; and, if not, whether steps will be taken to secure that officers so retained shall not be in a worse financial position than officers under the War Office?
Officers of the King's Royal Rifles and the local Protectorate forces in Eastern Africa serve on special consolidated rates of pay with special bonus. Such officers are not eligible for the Army of Occupation bonus while drawing consolidated rates of pay; but the question ofgranting to them this bonus for any period for which they have been placed on British Army rates of pay from Colonial funds subsequent to the 31st of January last is already under consideration between the War Office and the Colonial Office. The question of effecting an improvement in the consolidated rates of pay and the special bonus for officers of the King's African. Rifles will be taken up when the proposed permanent increases in the British Army rates are notified.
India
Bombay High Court (Passive Resistees)
asked the Secretary of State for India whether notices have been issued by the Bombay High Court, under Section 10 of Letters Patent, against pleaders and barristers who took the pledge as passive resisters to disbar them; whether this is contrary to the declaration of His Majesty's Government that no steps would be taken to punish passive resisters; and, if so, will they indicate to the High Court that their action is undesirable?
My hon. and gallant Friend drew my attention to this on Monday. I am in communication with the Viceroy and the Government of Bombay.
Indian Army (Widows' And Dependants' Pensions)
asked the Secretary of State for India whether the present scale of pensions of the widows and dependants of officers of the Indian Army is now under consideration by the India Office or will it be submitted for the consideration of the Army in India Committee?
As I informed the hon. -and gallant Member on the 23rd of last month, I am waiting for the Royal Warrant with regard to the revised rates for British service pensions before communicating with the Government of India. All improvements in pensions of widows, children, and other dependants of British service officers that from time to time -since the outbreak of the War have been promulgated by Royal Warrant have been extended to British officers of the Indian Army; and I know of no reason why this practice should not continue to be followed. It is not proposed to refer the subject to the Committee on the Army in India
British Troops, Rawal Pindi
asked the Secretary of State for India whether all but the very low-class cafés and places of amusement in Rawal Pindi are out of bounds to the British troops stationed there; and, if so, will he take any action in the matter?
I have no information, but will inquire.
Woodstock School (Stationery)
asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that at Woodstock the boys school is sufficiently provided with the. necessary books, but the girls have in many cases to purchase for themselves; whether it has been a common practice for pupils to have to purchase school books; if so, can he state the reason; and whether there is any prospect of full provision in elementary schools of all necessary books?
I understand that no children at Woodstock have had to purchase printed books for school use, but that some of the girls have supplemented the stationery supplied for their use at school by exercise books which they have purchased themselves. During the War the strictest economy in stationery has been necessary, but I hope that from now onwards local education authorities will be able to make more liberal provision.
Swimming (School Instruction)
asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that the majority of persons in these islands are ignorant of any knowledge in the art of swimming; and whether, seeing the increasing number of cases of accidental drowning that so frequently occur, due solely to the inability of the victims to avail themselves of the first essential of any preservation in or on the water, he can see his way to make swimming lessons compulsory in all schools where facilities can be obtained?
The Board have always refrained From prescribing particular subjects, and I do not see my way to adopt the hon. Member's suggestion. Local education authorities and school governing bodies are fully alive to the desirability of providing instruction in swimming and have made considerable progress with such provision, which will no doubt be facilitated by Section 17 of the Education Act, 1918.
Ireland
Illicit Stills
asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he can give a Return showing the number of illicit stills seized
| — | Quantity of illicit spirits seized. | No. of illicit stills seized, | No. of prosecutions. | No. of convictions. | No. of dismissal. | No. of persons committed to prison, | Amount of lines imposed. |
| Gals. | £ | ||||||
| Quarter ended 31 Mar., 1919 | 34 | 38 | 33 | 31 | 2 | 1 | 198 |
| Quarter ended 30 June, 1919 | 126 | 65 | 95 | 85 | 10 | 8 | 933 |
| Totals | 160 | 103 | 128 | 116 | 12 | 6 | 1,131 |
Outrages Against Magistrates And Police
asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he can give a list of the number of criminal outrages
| Number of outrages against police. | Number killed | Number injured. | Number of dwelling raided for arms, & e. | Number brought to justice. |
| 11 | — | 12 | 7 | 9 |
in Ireland during the last six months, the quantity of potheen or illicit spirit captured, the number of prosecutions for such offences, the total amount of fines imposed in prosecutions, and the amounts to which the penalties were mitigated; and whether he will consider the advisability of having all cases of this kind heard exclusively by stipendiary magistrates in future?
The Return is as follows:attempted against magistrates and police in Ireland from the period 1st January to 9th August, 1919; whether he can state the counties in which these offences were committed and the number of public servants who were killed or injured as a result; whether he can give a Return, similarly by counties, of the number of police barracks upon which attacks were made and the number of other dwellings upon which raids were made or attempted for the purpose of procuring arms or explosives; and how many persons have been brought to justice for all these offences?
The following statement gives the information asked for as regards the Dublin Metropolitan Police District:other than police was injured. Six of the police were seriously injured by revolver shots.The following statement gives the information asked for as regards the several counties in Ireland:
| Counties. etc. | Outrages against magistrates and police. | Attacks on police barracks and other dwellings for arms or explosives. | Number of persons brought to justice. | ||||||
| On magistrate | Number killed | Number injured | On police | Number killed | Number injured | Police barracks | Other dwelling | ||
| Antrim | 1 | — | |||||||
| Armagh | 1 | 1 | 6 | 4 arrests—on bail. | |||||
| Belfast City | — | ||||||||
| Cavau | 1 | 4 | 6 arrests—I sent for trial, 5 discharged. | ||||||
| Donegal | 3 | — | |||||||
| Down | 1 | 3 | 1 | — | |||||
| Fermanagh | — | ||||||||
| Londonderry | 1 | 1 | 2 arrests, bailed to Qr. Sessions. | ||||||
| Monaghan | 2 | 2 | 1 arrest, bailed to Assizes. | ||||||
| Tyrone | — | ||||||||
| Carlow | — | ||||||||
| Dublin | 1 | 2 | 2 | 10 arrests, 4 sent to Penal Ser., 6 bound to peace. | |||||
| Kildare | — | ||||||||
| Kilkenny | — | ||||||||
| King's | — | ||||||||
| Longford | 1 | 2 arrests on remand. | |||||||
| Louth | 3 | 1 | 1 | 3 arrests, bailed to Assizes. | |||||
| Meath | — | ||||||||
| Queen's | — | ||||||||
| Weattneath | 1 | — | |||||||
| Wexford | 2 | — | |||||||
| Wicklow | 1 | 1 | — | ||||||
| Galway E. Biding | — | ||||||||
| Galway W. Biding | 1 | 1 | — | ||||||
| Leitrim | 1 | — | |||||||
| Mayo | 1 | 1 | — | ||||||
| Roscommon | 1 | 1 | — | ||||||
| Sligo | — | ||||||||
| Clare | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 7 arrested, handed over to Military. | ||||
| Cork E. Riding | 4 | 2 | l | 12 | 1 arrested, discharged. | ||||
| Cork W. Riding | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 arrested, 2 convicted, 1 acquitted. | |||||
| Kerry | 1 | 2 | 2 | — | |||||
| Limerick | 3 | 3 | 4 | 5 arrested, discharged. | |||||
| Tipperary N. Riding | 2 | 1 | 1 | — | |||||
| Tipperary S. Riding | 1 | 2 | 2 | — | |||||
| Waterford | 2 | — | |||||||
| Total | 3 | 1 | — | 33 | 6 | 24 | 4 | 46 | 44 arrests. |
| 6 convictions. | |||||||||
| 12 discharged. | |||||||||
| 13 for trial. | |||||||||
| 6 bound to the peace. | |||||||||
| 7 handed over to military. | |||||||||
National Belief Fund (Juvenile Unemployment Centres)
asked the President of the Board of Education how many local education authorities have replied to Circular No. 1,117 saying they desire the maintenance offered by the National Relief Fund, and how many have replied that they do not desire to take any action under the Circular; and can he form any estimate of the number of scholars likely to receive maintenance under the scheme?
Juvenile unemployment centres were established in the areas of sixty-eight local education authorities in England and Wales. The number of those who, up to 12th August, 1919, expressed the desire to avail themselves of the provisions of Circular 1,117, relating to maintenance allowances offered by the National Relief Fund, is five. The number who have replied that they do not desire to take any action under the Circular is twenty-two. It is impossible at present to estimate the number of scholars likely to receive maintenance under the scheme.
Housing
Empty Houses (Country Districts)
asked the Minister of Health whether he is proposing to take over empty houses in country districts, as in the case of towns, to provide extra housing accommodation during the coming winter?
It is contemplated that schemes submitted under Section 12 of the new Housing Act for the acquisition of houses with a view to providing extra accommodation, will be carried out through the medium of or in conjunction with local authorities. The powers conferred by this Section apply to local authorities in rural as well as in urban districts, and my right hon. Friend will be ready to consider any proposals submitted by a rural district council for the exercise of their powers under this Section.
Ministry Of Health ("Housing" Journal)
asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there are recognised technical journals in existence of long standing and reputation, such as the "Architect," the "Builder," and others, that deal with all points raised in his Departmental weekly journal called "Housing," and reach a far larger circle of readers, and whether, for the sake of Governmental economy, he will withdraw the publication of "Housing" accordingly as a subsidised, expensive, and unnecessary rival to the building trade journals that have been always willing to support all reasonable Government housing schemes to the fullest extent and to afford information in every detail required by those interested in the building trade?
I am, of course, aware of the value of the technical journals to which the hon. Member refers, and I have made it quite clear in the first number of "Housing," that it is not intended to compete with these journals. The object of "Housing" is to provide a regular means of direct communication between the Department and local authorities and the Ministry's staff up and down the country on the many points which constantly arise in the administration of the Government housing programme, and I am satisfied that this function could not be so efficiently discharged in any other way. As the hon. Member knows, the expenditure on the housing programme will unavoidably be large. There will be much room for effecting economies by the widest dissemination of information and of the experience of the Ministry and of particular local authorities, and I regard the issue of a journal as an essential part of the organisation.
Electors' Registers
asked the Minister of Health whether, seeing that the expenditure in the Western Union alone necessitated by the production of the registers of electors is estimated at a yearly £160,000, he will, in the interests of economy of public funds, consider the possibility of altering the procedure in this connection without any detrimental effect upon the registers?
I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the replies given to questions on the subject of the cost of producing the registers of electors which were put by the hon. and gallant Member for Torquay (Colonel Burn) on the 14th July and by the hon. Members for Eastbourne (Mr. Rupert Gwynne) and Mon-mouth (Mr. Forestier-Walker) on the 15th and 17th July, of which I am sending him copies. As has been previously stated, the matter is receiving consideration, and it is hoped to make arrangements which will materially reduce the cost of the registers.
Payment Of Rates, Culcheth
asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that great hardship is caused to the small farmers, and especially the cottagers of Culcheth, near Warrington, by the action of the overseers in demanding payment of the rates in one sum; whether arrangements can be made for half-yearly payments; and whether he is aware that the assistant overseer of Culcheth is a full-time collector for Hindley Urban District Council, and, therefore, without time to apply himself to the work at Culcheth, which could very well be attended to by a discharged disabled soldier?
My right hon. Friend has no knowledge of the circumstances to which the hon. Member calls attention, but he has asked the overseer for information and will communicate with the hon. Member when particulars are received.
Hay
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is now in a position to make any statement as to the Government policy in respect to the hay crop for 1919?
I regret that I am not yet in a position to make an announcement on this matter beyond that made yesterday to the hon. and gallant Member for Faversham (Major Wheler).
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether the Government still controls the stock of hay in this country; if so, for what purpose; and whether he is aware that horse keepers are finding the greatest difficulty in buying sufficient hay for their immediate needs, while the accumulation of a winter stock of hay is impossible at any price?
I have been asked to reply to this question. The whole of the 1918 hay crop was taken possession of by the Government under Orders made by the Army Council in the summer of last year. Farmers were allowed to retain part of their crop for their own purposes, and the remainder was purchased by the Government in order to supply the requirements (1) of the Army and (2) of civilian horses, principally in the towns. The balance of the hay, which has not yet been consumed, still remains at the disposal of the Government for these purposes. I am aware of the scarcity of hay at the present time, and of the fact that the balance of the1918 crop still available for civilian consumption is unequally distributed between different parts of the country. In these circumstances, the control of this hay retained by the Government serves the purpose of facilitating an equitable distribution of the very scanty supplies.
Jamaica Geape Feuit
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that Jamaica grape fruit is being sold in London of which the wrappers bear full instructions in German; and whether shipping space is being allotted to any German firm, or firm with German connection, for the importation of grape fruit into this country when it is with the utmost difficulty that the produce of British firms can be shipped, or whether German firms are already permitted to supply wrappers in the territory of the British Empire when the making of such wrappers would be giving employment to British people?
My attention had not previously been called to the fact alleged, but there is now no reason why, if the fruit is produced in and exported from Jamaica, it should not be admitted under the general licence for Colonial produce. Under this general licence no inquiry would be made into the nationality of the firm exporting from the Colony. I cannot say what policy has been adopted throughout the British Empire in regard to the importation of German goods, but a general licence has been issued in the United Kingdom allowing the resumption of trade with Germany subject to certain import and export prohibitions. I am informed that the Colonies not possessing responsible government and the Protectorates have been instructed to issue similar general licences, and, as there are no import prohibitions in Jamaica, there is nothing to prevent the importation of German goods (including wrappers) into that Colony. The wrappers may, of course, be taken from old stock.
Leather (Prices)
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the high and increasing price of leather; whether he is aware that harness makers are now required to pay 4s. 4d. to 5s. 2d. per lb. for the leather which before the War was sold at 1s. 8d. to 1s. 11d., while the tanners are paying only Id. per lb. more for hides; whether there is still any control over the prices of leather; and whether he will inquire into a general charge of profiteering in the leather trade?
I am fully aware of the continual rise in the price of leather, but am not prepared to accept the hon. Member's figures as to the price of hides, which I am advised has risen by from 7d. to 9d. a pound above the pre-war price of 7d. to 8d. As the hon. Gentleman will be aware, a Bill to prevent profiteering is now before the House, and in these circumstances I cannot promise to take action in respect of a particular trade until a decision has been reached as to the policy to be adopted to prevent profiteering generally.
Wireless Telegraphy (High-Frequency Machines)
asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the efficient service rendered throughout the War by the German station at Nauen which is still conducting a commercial service; is he aware that high-frequency machines have been employed and are employed by this station; whether the United States Government, recognising the value of high-frequency machines, are contemplating their employment in preference to the Poulsen system so far in use; and whether the French Government, finding that Poulsen arcs are unsuitable for commercial stations, are adopting high-frequency machines in their place?
I am aware that the German wireless station at Nauen has worked during the War with a certain degree of efficiency. I believe various types of apparatus have been used at this station, including high-frequency machines; but if, as I am advised, as good results can be achieved without the use of German apparatus, 1 should not propose to employ such apparatus at the stations which the Post Office is about to erect. According to my information, the United States Government have one station equipped with an Alexander son high-frequency machine. Other American stations are equipped with the arc system, and are regarded as satisfactory. A large station is being erected for the French Government equipped with the Poulsen arc, and they are understood to be installing at other stations a high-frequency ma-chine side by side with the arc system, but it has not yet been used in actual working.
Baking Trade (Night Work)
asked the Minister of Labour whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce legislation to deal with the question of night work in the baking trade; and, if so, when?
Yes, Sir. A Bill is being prepared to give effect to the recommendations of the Committee of Inquiry into night baking. It will be introduced as soon as Parliamentary business permit, and if there be undue delay in its introduction, this fact will be taken into account in fixing the period of grace before the Act becomes operative, which was recommended by the Committee.
Repatriated British Civilians (Compensation)
asked the Minister of Labour if the Government contemplates a scheme to provide compensation for those British civilians who, being in Germany in August, 1914, were made prisoners by the Germans and were only released on the termination of hostilities, especially when they can prove that such imprisonment has caused them grievous financial loss?
I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to Clause 2 of Annex I. to the Reparation Clauses in the Treaty of Peace, from which it appears that "injuries to life or health as a consequence of imprisonment, deportation or internment "may be made the subject of a claim for compensation against the German Government. It does not, however, appear that any provision is made for the presentation of claims on account of internment unaccompanied by injury to life or health.
National Shipyards
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller if he can now indicate the future policy of his Department with regard to the shipbuilding yards at Portbury, Beachley, and Chepstow?
My hon. and gallant Friend is unable to add anything to the full statement which he made in this House on 19th May last on this subject.
British Shipping
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller the number and gross tonnage of all British vessels sold to foreign owners in each of the years 1915, 1916, 1917, 1918, and 1919, and the number and gross tonnage of such vessels sold by the British Government authorities to foreign owners during each of such years; the names and the gross tonnages of British vessels still retained by the Shipping Controller, and the numbers and gross tonnage of vessels now under construction for or contracted to be built for the Shipping Controller; the numbers and gross tonnage of vessels now under construction for foreigners in the United Kingdom or contracted to be built in the United Kingdom for foreigners, and the number of licences granted by the British Government for the construction of vessels in the United Kingdom for foreigners; and the several orders made or directions given by the Shipping Controller under Regulation 39bbb since the date of the Armistice in respect of ships setting out the name of vessels, tonnages, ports, cargoes carried, and rates of freight, and the position of each vessel when such orders or directions were made or given; and whether, in respect of vessels now owned by the British Government or building or contracted to be built for them, such vessels will be sold by auction or private treaty to British buyers only?
A statement is being prepared giving the particulars desired with regard to vessels sold to foreigners, vessels owned by or under construction for the Shipping Controller, and vessels under construction for foreigners, so far as the information is available, and will be circulated in the OFFICIAL REPORT as soon as possible. All voyages of British steamers over 500 tons gross outside the coasting trade have been controlled by the Ministry since the Armistice by means of a licensing system combined with direction. Much of the information desired by the hon. Member is not recorded by the Department as being unnecessary to the administration of the system, and the extraction of the remainder would involve an amount of labour out of all proportion to its value when obtained. The Shipping Controller is not prepared to undertake that vessels owned or built for the Government will in no case be sold to foreign buyers.
Harvest Operations (Labour)
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether an adequate supply of labour for the harvest is now assured; and whether he has received any representations from any parts of the country indicating that additional men are still needed?
Owing to the comparative lightness of the crops the supply of labour for the harvest appears, in most districts, to be adequate, or nearly adequate, in quantity, though a deficiency of skilled men is general. Representations have been received from some districts that an insufficiency of labour still exists. The Board have been in communication with the War Office, and it is hoped that some help may be afforded by soldiers on furlough.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that there is unrest in parts of Lincolnshire because of Irishmen being brought over for the harvest operations, and that such unrest is based upon the fact that some of the labourers that would ordinarily be employed for harvest are detained in the Army of Occupation in Ireland; and whether he will, as a means of removing this unrest, approach the War Office with a view to the demobilisation of these soldiers, and so enable them to resume their normal occupation?
I am not aware that unrest exists in Lincolnshire from the cause referred to. The Board have urged the War Office to release as soon as possible all men eligible for demobilisation, as well as to provide all practicable facilities for enabling soldiers to assist in the harvest. It is understood that steps are being taken to do this so far as the requirements of the Army permit.
Canadian Stoee Cattle (Importation)
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if, seeing that the Board now admit that the importation of Canadian store cattle can no longer be prohibited on the ground that these cattle are especially dangerous to the health of our herds at home, but admit that the prohibition is continued as a protection to the cattle-rearing section of the agricultural community, he will say whether it is the policy of the Government to give protection to every section of the agricultural community; and, seeing that this prohibition or protection is maintained only under the Diseases of Animals Act of 1896, if he will say whether general protection is to be introduced by such means?
I am fully aware of the circumstances, but am not in a position to make any statement at present.
Poland (Anti-Jewish Excesses)
asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the soldiers of General Haller's army participated in anti-Jewish excesses on 26th June in Warsaw, in which the beards of several Jews were torn out, and that they have also assaulted and injured Jews in other towns besides Czerstochau, concerning which he informed the House on 5thJune; and whether, as all representations to the Polish Government to suppress the anti-Jewish outrages have hitherto failed, he will consider the advisability of His Majesty's Government withholding any further support, either in the form of money, equipment, or munitions, from any part of the Polish Army until the latter ceases to commit violence against citizens of Poland of a different race and religion?
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. While I am not prepared to accept the suggestion contained in the last part of the question that representations addressed to the Polish Government have had no effect, I may remind the hon. Member that His Majesty's Government are dispatching a Commission to Poland with the particular object of investigating the position of Jews in that country. It is not in contemplation, therefore, to take action in the sense suggested. I may add that recent reports show that the Polish authorities have been punishing anti-Jewish excesses by executions and imprisonments of offenders.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can now announce the names of the members of the proposed Commission for investigating the anti-Jewish outrages in Poland; whether this Commission will include a Jewish representative; and when they will start on their journey?
The answer to the first part of the question asked by the hon. and gallant Member is that invitations have been issued to two gentlemen, but one of them has not yet replied; to the second, that it is hoped to secure the services of a representative who will be acceptable to the Jewish community. I can at present give no definite date for the departure of the Mission, but everything possible is being done to accelerate the necessary arrangements being made.
Trans-Caucasia
asked the Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the British forces in Trans-Caucasia, or part of them, are to be withdrawn; if so, whether any arrangements have been, or can be, made to prevent bloodshed among the different races inhabiting that region; whether he has information that the Kurds, Tartars, and Georgians are attacking, or preparing to attack, the Armenian Republic of Erivan; and, if so, whether the Armenians, having been our friends in the late War, will be rendered any assistance or left to their fate?
The British forces are being entirely evacuated from Trans-Caucasia immediately. At the same time a political mission under the charge of a gentleman specially qualified for the post is on its way to Trans-Caucasia, and will, it is hoped, be in a position to exercise a restraining influence on the local Governments of the various Republics, both as regards their relations with each other and with the Russian Volunteer Army to the north. As I indicated, in my reply to the hon. Member for Morpeth (Mr. Cairns) on Tuesday, His Majesty's Government regard the position of the Armenians in the Caucasus as extremely unsatisfactory and they earnestly trust that it may be possible to appoint a mandatory Power in the near future. In the meantime, the Peace Conference in Paris have appointed an Allied High Commissioner for Armenia.
Armenia
asked the Under secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Italian Government has with drawn its promise to send troops to Armenia to prevent massacre after the withdrawal of the British troops; whether the Government of the United States of America has accepted a mandate for that region; and, if not, what steps have been taken to bridge the interval between the withdrawal of our troops and the establishment of some other settled government in the country?
The Italian Government at one time contemplated sending troops to the Caucasus, not specifically : to prevent an Armenian massacre after the withdrawal of the British troops, but to assume military charge of the areas between the Black and Caspian Seas. They have since desisted from that intention. The American Government have not accepted a mandate for Armenia, nor can they do so without the consent of Congress, which has not as yet been given. The British occupation of the Caucasus, undertaken for the purpose of expelling the enemy, has indirectly had a great effect in tranquillising the country. But if it were to be continued until settled government has been established in those regions, it would be impossible to place a limit to its duration. His Majesty's Government are taking every available step to prevent the revival of racial conflict and to secure a stable order upon the departure of the British forces.
Aliens (Naturalisation)
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether alien enemies who have been interned during the War and who have now been released are entitled to make application for naturalisation in this country, if they have lived here for the qualifying period before the War and are able to secure the necessary householders for sponsors, or has any Regulation or Order been made that these people are not to be given British naturalisation papers?
My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I must refer the hon. Member to the provisions of the British Nationality and Status of Aliens Act, 1918, which, with certain exceptions, prohibit until the end of a period of ten years after the end of the War the naturalisation of any subject of a country with which this country was at war in August of last year.