asked the Minister of Food whether twenty steamers with cargoes of meat and mutton are lying in various ports in the United Kingdom and cannot be discharged on account of lack of storage; whether the stocks of frozen meat in cold storage in the United Kingdom amount to 100,000 tons; whether the imports during the next two months are estimated at 57,000 tons in December and 60,000 tons in January; whether the present consumption is approximately 30,000 tons per month; whether the consumption in the United Kingdom since the beginning of the War has been 33 per cent. below the normal and still remains at 33 per cent., below the normal owing to high prices; whether there are 150,000 tons of meat and mutton lying in freezing works in Australia and New Zealand; can he state what action it is proposed to take to relieve the congestion in this country; whether the meat is to be allowed to lie in store until it is rotten, as was done in the case of bacon; will he state why prices are not reduced and the demand thus increased; whether the reason for keeping prices up is to enable the Department to make a profit to provide for the payment of subsidy to British farmers on home-killed meat; and whether he will give as full an explanation as possible of the present position and the policy of his Department with regard to meat?

At the present time there are eight steamers in course of discharge with storage provided for all their cargoes; there are four steamers berthed with cargoes for which there is not at present any storage accommodation; and there are seven other steamers not yet berthed. The stock of frozen meat in store is, approximately, as stated, and the arrivals during December and January will probably not be less than the figures stated in the question. The total consumption of meat at the present time varies between 90,000 and 110,000 tons per month, of which imported meat forms a varying proportion, but is not less than 30,000 tons per month at the present time, The consumption in the United Kingdom during the War has also shown different variations from the normal, and at the present time is about 30 per cent. below the pre-war standard. The quantity of meat in the stores in Australia and New Zealand cannot be stated with exactness on any given day, but it is expected to be about 120,000 tons on the 31st December. Frozen meat placed in properly equipped storage will not become rotten. The suggestion that bacon has become rotten in store is without foundation. Prices of imported mutton and lamb have been reduced and at the present time represent actual cost. The Food Controller is now in close consultation with the President of the Board of Trade and the President of the Board of Agriculture on the whole question of meat control, and proposes to make a full announcement on the subject at a very early date.

asked the Minister of Food if his attention has been called to a resolution of the Consumers' Council stating that the Consumers' Council, having observed the reply given by him in the House of Commons to the effect that he was conferring with the Board of Trade on the proposed immediate decontrol of meat, and after having received from the officials of the Ministry of Food the facts and figures bearing upon the present position and their calculations as to the future Home, Allied, and Foreign demand generally, is strongly of opinion that the effect of decontrol would at this juncture be fraught with the gravest danger to the consumers with regard to price, supply, and quality; and whether, in view of the effect of decontrol in other cases, he will, before any decision on this matter is taken, see that the views of the council are fully considered?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. On this, as on other matters, the fullest consideration will be given to the council's views before any decision is taken.

asked the Minister of Food if he will state the cost price of imported meat; and the corresponding wholesale and retail sale prices?

The only imported meat purchased by the Government at the present time is Australasian mutton and lamb. The cost of this meat to the Ministry of Food is 10½d. per lb., and it is sold at this price to the wholesaler. It is impossible to give an exactly parallel retail figure, as the meat is cut up and sold at varying prices, according to the different joints, but the average price is approximately 1s. 0½d. per lb.

asked the Minister of Food whether, as the monthly labour review of the United States Bureau of Labour statistics for September, 1918, in an investigation of rising food prices, give the price of hogs in Chicago at 15 cents per lb. in the late summer and fall of 1916 and the Departmental Committee on Food Prices state that the best American bacon was selling in retail shops in Liverpool at the same period at 1s. 2d. per lb. in sliced rashers and 11d. per lb. in the piece, so that the margin between live hog prices in America and retail bacon prices can be accurately stated as being from 4½d. to 5d. per lb., and as it has now risen to a figure of 18.5d. per lb., of imported bacon, or nearly four times as much, and as this rise has taken place independently of freights, which have only risen about ½d. per lb., he will state the main figures of increased cost which have produced this abnormal rise?

The Report of the Departmental Committee on Prices, 1916, only gives particulars of the retail prices of a certain variety of bacon in a particularly low-priced area; and it is not clear from the Report whether the prices quoted are for green or smoked bacon. It is not, therefore, possible to institute a comparison, as the hon. Member attempts to do, between these prices and the average of the highest retail prices of smoked bacon. I may say, however, that there has been a large increase in the margin between the price of live hogs in Chicago and the average retail price of bacon in this country to-day, as compared with 1916. The principal causes of this rise are: The large increase in manufacturing, storing, transport and insurance charges due to the general higher level of wages and living, the decreased purchasing power of the £1 sterling in America, the greater shrinkage and waste on a perishable article owing to delays in inland and ocean transport, and the increased margins necessary for processing and trade profits which are naturally much higher in pence per lb. on an article costing considerably more than in 1916. Moreover, the full advantage of the lower level of hog prices in America, will not be felt in this country until supplies cured from the winter run of hogs arrive and reach the retail shops early in the new year.

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that the present price of milk is giving rise to considerable agitation in Glasgow and elsewhere; and whether he will receive a deputation from the Glasgow and District Co-operative Consumers' Council on this question?

The Food Controller is aware of the position in Glasgow; but he does not consider, in all the circumstances, that any useful purpose would be served by his reception of the deputation in question.

asked the Minister of Food whether the Report of the Committee which is at present considering the question of the price of milk is expected shortly?

The Report of the Committee in question has already been received and issued to the Press.

asked the Minister of Food whether, in fixing the price of milk, due consideration was given to the consumer; whether heed is being given to the fact that the high price is causing many families with children to reduce their daily orders; that in many districts there is a surplus due to this fact, and that many adult families able to pay the higher price are getting the milk which has to be refused to the children; and that in districts where there is no surplus the children are probably suffering?

The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, the Food Controller is aware that consumption of milk is limited in certain districts by the present maximum price, and that in some districts surplus supplies exist which are being manufactured into milk products. I would remind the hon. and gallant Member that arrangements are already in existence for supplying milk at reduced prices or free of cost in certain cases to children under five years of age and expectant and nursing mothers; and I may say that the Food Controller is now in consultation with the Minister of Health on the question of extending these facilities.

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that candied peel is being sold at 2s. 6d. to 3s. per lb.; whether the pre-war price was 6d. per lb.; whether candied peel is a controlled article; and, if not, will he take steps to secure its sale at a reduced price?

The Food Controller is aware that the present and pre-war prices of candied peel are approximately as stated in the question. The increase in price is due, I understand, to increased cost of labour in the country of origin and in this country, and to the increased cost of sugar and of freight. I would remind the hon. Member that this foodstuff is scheduled under the Profiteering Act.

asked the Minister of Food whether the Royal Commission on the Sugar Supply was consulted before the Sugar Restrictions Order of 31st October was issued; and, if so, what views did they express?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I would, on this matter, refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 4th December to the hon. Member for Edgehill.

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that, although the new Fish Prices Order making many drastic changes came into force on Monday the 1st instant, all the information which the trade had was casual newspaper paragraphs appearing on the previous Saturday; and if he will give instructions that in future his Department will give reasonable notice and so protect not only the trade but also the public from unnecessary annoyance and inconvenience?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The Food Controller announced on 15th November his intention of reimposing maximum prices for fish as from the beginning of December; and the new schedule of prices was issued to the Local Food Authorities some, days before 1st December. I can assure the hon. and gallant Member that all steps will be taken for the protection of the trade and the public as suggested in the last part of the question.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that irritation is being caused amongst Irish horse breeders by the continuance of the restriction on the export abroad of horses; and whether, in view of the fact that we are not now at war, and that there is no foreign demand for horses which cannot be, met without unduly depleting the breeding stock, he will now withdraw all restriction on foreign export?

So far as Ireland is concerned there have been no restrictions for a considerable time past on the export from this country of horses fit to travel. The existing restrictions are applicable to horses from any part of the United Kingdom, and require the exporter to obtain a licence from the War Trade Department for horses going to foreign countries. In the case of Irish horses such licences have been freely granted.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if the Fair-Wages Resolution is still applicable to Government Departments; and, if so, is it the intention of the Admiralty to apply it to the Royal dockyards by differentiating between wages paid on new and repair work, as is done by private employers?

The Resolution referred to by my hon. Friend is still applicable. As regards the second part of the question, I would remind my hon. Friend that the question of wages of mechanics in His Majesty's dockyards has recently been the subject of arbitration on the application of the various societies, and that the claimants in putting their case both to the Admiralty and to the Court of Arbitration gave due prominence to the difference between the rates for repair work and for new work commonly obtaining for shipyard trades in commercial ports. The advance, 2s. a week, awarded by the Court of Arbitration applies equally to men on new work and on repair work, and leaves the rates equal, as they always have been in His Majesty's dockyards.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will make the necessary inquiry respecting 1915 and 1916 men still retained in Mesopotamia?

I am informed by the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Mesopotamia, that all men who enlisted voluntarily prior to 1st July, 1916, or who are over thirty-seven years of age, or entitled to wear three wound stripes, are already under orders to move to the base, prior to sailing, or have already left. Men who are eligible under current instructions will move to the base normally one month before due.

asked the Secretary of State for War when the Connaught Residential Club, Marble Arch, will be released from Army control, thereby providing housing accommodation for nearly 200 families, which is so urgently needed; and whether it is necessary to retain such a large building for the housing of the Women's Auxiliary Army Corps now that peace conditions are restored, and having regard to the promise to secure economy in all Departments?

The Connaught Club, Marble Arch, is utilised as a dispersal hostel for members of the Queen Mary's Army Auxiliary Corps returning from France for demobilisation, and will be fully occupied for this purpose up to the end of the month. The handing over of the equipment and stores will commence during the second week in January, and it is anticipated that the date for final evacuation will be the 1st February next.

asked the Secretary of State for War what obligation rests upon the British taxpayer for maintaining a. camp for Armenian refugees at Bakuba?

These refugees were compelled to flee their country, and came under British protection, as the direct result of their participation in operations against the Turks. Their repatriation will be carried out as soon as conditions permit. I understand that the great majority of the able-bodied are employed.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Army Council Instruction can be amended so that all Territorials serving on a prewar attestation, who became time-expired during the War, and who either voluntarily agreed to serve for the duration of the War or who were retained under the provisions of the Military Service Acts, whether granted commissions or otherwise, can be granted one month's furlough on full pay and allowances?

All Territorial soldiers, serving on a pre-war attestation, who became time-expired during the War, and who were retained under the provisions of the Military Service Acts, are granted one month's leave, provided the provisions of Army Council Instruction 633 of the 18th November, 1919, are fulfilled. It is regretted that this leave cannot be extended to officers, whether promoted from the ranks or soldiers discharged for the purpose of being appointed to a commission.

asked the Secretary of State for War what was the total number of military and civilians, not including the Military Secretary's Department, employed at the War Office Territorial Branch in August, 1914; November, 1918, and November, 1919, and the monthly cost for salaries and wages on each of these dates?

The information is as follows:

	Number of staff.	Approximate monthly cost.
August, 1914	9	£370
November, 1918	164	£2,340
November, 1919	64	£1,590

During the War the administration of the Volunteer Force and of Cadet units was added to the duties of the Directorate, and the figures for November, 1918 and 1919, include the staff engaged on that work. The staff engaged on Territorial Force work numbers at present seventeen, and the monthly cost is £810.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that numbers of men who voluntarily came from overseas to give their services either as soldiers or as munition workers are now perturbed at the failure so far of the War Office to facilitate their return passages to the homes which they left; and whether these men will be provided with berths free of expense at as early a date as possible, in accordance with the promise that they would be accorded every facility and privilege to go to any part of the British Possessions?

Officers and other ranks and their families who are entitled to repatriation under the Government scheme are being repatriated as rapidly as the available facilities permit. The shipping situation, which is still far from normal, especially in the case of transport for India and the Far East, has caused some unavoidable delay. As regards the-repatriation of onmitions workers, I must refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to statements alleged to have been made by prisoners of war from Germany as to a prisoner-of-war camp in the Harz Mountains, Central Germany, in which it is said that there are still a number of members of the Allied Armies; and whether he can give a definite assurance that a thorough search has been made for any such camps throughout every part of Germany?

I would refer my hon. and learned Friend to the reply given on Wednesday last to questions on this subject asked by the hon. and gallant Members for East Lewisham and Moss Side. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

asked the. Financial Secretary to the War Office whether numerous farmers are under contracts with their landlords to place a guaranteed amount of manure on the ground for every ton of hay sold; and whether he is aware that in the case of commandeered hay there is no allowance to compensate the landlord and farmer for the loss of such manure; and what steps he will take to remedy this state of affairs?

I understand that a provision of the nature suggested is included in many farm agreements. The prices for hay and straw fixed by the Army Council Order of 20th August, 1918, were, however, considered to be fair to farmers to recoup them for any loss incurred by the sale of any hay or straw from their farms.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that in the case of hay which was commandeered in 1918 the interest allowed is in some cases only equal. to 5 per cent.; and whether, in view of the fact that the hay was commandeered at a price far below the market value, he will cause a reconsideration of such rate of interest?

The interest paid is at the rate of 15 per cent. per annum, and I am not aware of any cases of hay commandeered in 1918 where the interest allowed was only equal to 5 per cent. If my hon. and gallant Friend can give particulars of any such cases I will have inquiry made.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the British Government are in possession of photographs portraying atrocities committed by Bolshevists in Russia; whether these photographs will be laid upon the Table of the House for the inspection of Members; and whether the Government propose to take the necesary steps to give these photographs the widest possible publicity in order to bring home to the people of this country the horrors of a Bolshevist regime?

There is at the Foreign Office a number of photographs of the kind mentioned. Most of these photographs are wholly unsuited to purposes of general publicity, but they may be seen at the Foreign Office by any hon. Member who cares to inspect them.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now in a position to state why no gratuity has been granted to military masseuses who were employed throughout the War in military hospitals on their demobilisation, regard being had to the fact that substantial gratuities have been paid to Voluntary Aid Detachment nurses whose work was in many ways less exacting; and whether he will now take steps to remedy this state of affairs, which is felt most keenly by this branch of the military nursing service?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on the 24th November to the hon. and gallant Member for Yeovil.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Mr. P. Cook, late colour-sergeant, No. 2665, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, was discharged with pension in June, 1907, after serving twenty-three years with the Regular Army; whether at the outbreak of war he was foreman of the Army Clothing Department at Stirling, and on the testimony of his late commanding officer repeatedly desired to rejoin the Colours for service overseas, but was not allotted to do so on the ground that his services, which were described as invaluable, were required for the position he then occupied; whether he is aware that Mr. Cook made application for an increase of pension under Army Order 325 of 1919, which has been refused; and whether he will reconsider the matter or state the reasons why the claim has been refused?

I can only refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Canterbury on the 2nd instant.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in the event of an officer in His Majesty's Army being called upon to resign his commission through adverse reports, he is entitled to gratuity for the period served in the field; and, if not, whether he will state the reason for this, in view of the fact that many of these officers have clone good service in the War under active service conditions?

Under Army Order 406 of 1915, paragraph 2 (k), officers whose services are dispensed with for reasons which are not in the opinion of the Army Council satisfactory are debarred from the gratuity.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it is intended to revise the present scale of pensions for the Regular Army pensioners who are disabled and unfit to work, so that they receive an adequate sum to meet the increased cost of living?

If the disability is due to service the question is one for the Ministry of Pensions. In other cases, it has been decided to make no change.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether, since the Armistice, any contributions have been paid or are due to be paid to certain firms because of the absence of a break clause in their contracts; and, if so, whether he will state the, nature and total of such contributions?

To give an adequate reply to this question involves a detailed and exhaustive research, and I should be glad if my hon. Friend could postpone his question until Monday next.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the War Motors Association, through whom the Disposal Board sell motor lorries, cars, and cycles to ex-Service men, are doing so in infinitesimal numbers only; that there is dissatisfaction throughout the country at their failure to supply the demand; and if he will take steps to render sales through this association more efficient?

The Disposal Board does not sell motor vehicles through the War Motors Association. The association purchases vehicles from the Disposal Board for resale to ex-Service men. So far as supplies are available, the Board is willing to make similar arrangements with any other approved organisation acting in the interests of ex-Service men.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions what has been the expenditure on munitions during the current financial year; and what is the present monthly rate of expenditure on the production or purchase of munitions?

It is a matter of some complexity to differentiate between new commitments in the period referred to and items accruing from former years, and I should be glad if the hon. Member would postpone his question until Thursday next.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether the Government, directly or in- directly, controls the supply and the price of sulphate of ammonia, basic slag, and superphospnate; will he state the average price per ton paid for each of these fertilisers by the Government from the 1st April to the 30th September last, the average price at which they were sold during the like period to the merchant or factor, and the price the merchant or factor was authorised to charge the consumer; did the Government make any and what profit during the above period by dealing in the above fertilisers; and will he give the average profit per ton?

The Ministry of Munitions does not control the supply of the fertilisers referred to; the prices at which they could be sold up to 31st May last were fixed by the Fertilisers Prices Order, 1918, to which I would refer my hon. and learned Friend. The Ministry has never had any trading transactions in super-phosphates or basic slag; but at the date of the Armistice it had small stocks of sulphate of ammonia, which have since been sold.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether there is any arrangement or understanding with the trade that the cloth sold by his Department shall only be offered for sale to the trade; and, if not, why he does not invite tenders for single pieces of cloth?

There is no such arrangement as that referred to in the first part of the question. I cannot undertake to invite tenders for single pieces of cloth, as to do so would involve a considerable increase of staff and delay in placing the material upon the market.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions (1) whether a police force is still being maintained at His Majesty's Factory, Gretna; and, if so, whether he will state the strength of the force and the proportion, if any, of women belonging to it;(2) whether the cost of the police force at His Majesty's Factory, Gretna, is a charge upon his Department; and if he can state the cost per month of the force now employed there?

A police force is still maintained at His Majesty's Factory, Gretna. Its present strength is 180, to be reduced to 140 by the end of December. No women police are now employed. The cost of the force is £2,155 a month, which is borne upon the Votes of the Ministry of Munitions. The force is engaged in guarding an area of approximately 100 square miles, which contains plant, machinery and stores of a value of £5,000,000, and many thousands of tons of explosives.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether the firm of Short and Mason, scientific instrument manufacturers, Walthamstow, held any contract with his Department; if so, whether he is aware that this firm broke off negotiations with the Amalgamated Instrument Makers' Society on questions of hours and employment and wages, and discharged several members of the union who had been in the service of the firm for many years; that the main body of the employés have been out on strike for ten weeks and the firm still refuse to negotiate; and whether any action can be taken by the Department under the Fair-Wages Clause?

The Ministry of Munitions hold no contracts with this firm, and are not, therefore, in a position to take any action suggested in the question.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions if he can state the present position of the inquiry into the practicability of a pension scheme for Woolwich Arsenal employés; and whether there is any prospect of the early establishment of such a scheme?

The Departmental Committee appointed to investigate this matter have recently submitted an Interim Report, which is at present under consideration. As regards the second part of the question, I regret that I am not at present in a position to make any statement.

asked the Minister of Health if plans of houses are passed by the local council they may be assumed to be of approved type; and will the grant of £150 he given to any private builder for every house completed within twelve months?

I propose to circulate a White Paper setting out generally the conditions on which the Grants for building houses will be made.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether it is proposed to introduce further housing legislation for Scotland before Christmas; and, if so, when?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the Housing (Additional Powers) Bill which was introduced on the 4th instant and which applies to Scotland.

asked the Minister of health whether evidence can be produced to show that the panel service has improved the health of the nation?

The working of medical benefit under the Insurance Act had been scarcely eighteen months in existence when war broke out, and the disturbing effects of war conditions which have prevailed over the greater part of the period during which it has been in operation make it impossible to produce concrete evidence which would measure the improvement in the health of the nation due to the insurance medical service.

asked the Minister of Health whether he can indicate what amount of money is required to give the whole community an efficient medical service?

If my hon. Friend means a complete system of medical services of the different kinds needed for the varied requirements of the whole community, I cannot at the present moment hazard an estimate of the cost.

asked the Minister of Health what was the mortality rate due to phthisis during the year before the Insurance Act was passed, the year before the War, and last year?

The mortality rate for pulmonary tuberculosis for England and Wales in the years in question was as follows:

Year.	Death-rate.
1910	1.015
1913	1.004
*1918	1.343
*The figure for 1918 is based upon figures of the civilian deaths and civilian population only; arid regard must be had to various considerations before drawing any inference from it as compared with the figures given for 1913 and 1910.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if the Government intend to limit the profits of coal agents throughout the country, in view of the proposed limitation of producers' pronts to 1s. 2d. per ton?

The profits of merchants, factors and other coal agents are limited by the operation of the Wholesale Coal Prices Order, 1917, the Retail Coal Prices Order, 1917, and the Household Fuel and Lighting Order, 1919.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will extend the time of opening of the Patent Office Library to the hours during which the library was open before the War, and so meet the convenience of those who find it difficult to attend during the present restricted hours?

I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for the combined English universities on the 27th November last. Since that answer was given the Patent Office Library has been opened for three additional hours every evening, namely, from 5 to 8 p.m.

asked the President of the Board of Trade, whether his attention has been drawn to the attacks now being made on the administration of the Profiteering Act and the criticisms both from supporters and opponents of the Government; whether numerous protests have been received from members of the central committee alleging that the Regulations have not been carried out and that, through the action of the chairman, the committee have been robbed of the powers conferred upon them by Article 2 in the Schedule to the Regulations; whether, through refusal to call a meeting of the central committee or the complaints committee, members are lodging their protests at tribunal meetings; whether condemnatory resolutions have been received from the profiteering committee of the Shoreditch Borough Council, the National Federation of Discharged Soldiers and Sailors, the Scottish Trade Union Congress, and other bodies; whether the chairman is now seeking to deprive the complaints committee of the power to appoint tribunals and concentrate this power in his own hands; whether on the 14th November the machinery of the preliminary investigation committee of the central body broke down and only four members attended out of eleven; and whether, under these circumstances, he will ask the chairman to resign and will call a meeting of the central committee to arrange procedure on a more satisfactory footing?

As regards the first part of the question, I am unable to add anything to the previous answers I have given on this subject, and I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Members for Henley and the Moss-side Division on the 24th November. I have no knowledge of any breakdown in the machinery of the Central Committee on 14th November, and I see no reason for taking the action suggested in the last part of the question.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any statistics are available, and for what period, of goods imported into the United Kingdom at an import price less than their foreign value as defined in the Imports and Exports Regulation Bill?

One of the chief difficulties in cleating with the important problem of dumping is that we have at present no machinery for discovering either the cost of production or foreign value of imported goods and therefore cannot have any statistics of the nature specified by the hon. and gallant Member. If he will look at Part II. of the Bill to which he refers, he will see how complicated the necessary machinery is. It is for that reason that in the Bill power is only asked to set that machinery in motion when there is good ground for supposing that dumping is in progress or in contemplation, and then only in respect of the article or articles which it is believed are being dumped.

asked the Minister of Transport whether the rate for the carriage of horseflesh for human consumption from Swindon to London is 7s. per cwt. as against 2s. 10d. for beef and mutton; and, if so, if he will explain why this difference is made?

:I am informed that the full parcel scale rate of 7s. a hundredweight has been applied to consignments of horseflesh from Swindon to London, in accordance with the standard scale of rates. If the firm concerned wish to claim the meat rate of 2s. 10d. a hundred-weight, station to station at owner's risk, their proper course is to apply to the railway company.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has carefully con- sidered the suggestions and recommendations of chambers of commerce and others for the development of canal traffic and especially the Report of the Royal Commission on Canals, 1909; how soon will he be able to formulate and announce his policy on inland navigation; and what steps he proposes to take in that connection?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Many factors, including the increase in costs of all works, have to be taken into consideration, and, in particular, it is necessary carefully to consider the effect of any increase in railway rates on canal traffic. The Department is engaged on the necessary inquiries, but I fear I cannot name a date on which a complete policy can be formulated.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has had any correspondence with the Consett Iron Company, county Durham, with regard to the very serious loss of time and wages at those works owing to the deficiency of the railway Company's wagons; and, if so, what action he has taken in the matter?

I have received several communications from the Consett Iron Company during the last month regarding the shortage of railway wagons, and I have not failed to make representations in the matter to the Ministry of Transport as the Department primarily concerned. I am informed that the situation has received and is receiving the careful attention of that Ministry.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Uskside national works are unable to get steel plates and sections owing to the lack of transport facilities in connection with deliveries from the Consett Iron Company, Limited; whether the methods of work at terminals are being reorganised with the view of lessening the delays of wagons; and will he state the number of goods wagons now being manufactured by order of the Government for use on the railways, and the estimated number required to satisfy the present deficiency of such wagons?

The question of improving the methods of working at terminals is constantly engaging the attention of railway companies, and traders can lessen the delays to wagons by loading and unloading them promptly. I hope to deal with the other parts of the question in a statement which I propose to make next Thursday.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the agreement of 7th May granting the 48-hour week to boatmen employed by canal carriers has not been applied to men employed by the uncontrolled firms, and that the firms remain uncontrolled owing to the fact that they refuse to produce the information required by the Government; and, in view' of the possibility of a dispute, what steps does he intend taking to remedy the anomalous position?

I am not responsible for the wages or conditions of service of men employed by canal carriers not under control, and I am not aware that firms remain uncontrolled owing to the fact that they refuse to produce information. I cannot recommend that financial assistance should be afforded to uncontrolled canal carriers out of national funds.

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the time which is still taken in clearing goods from the ports; and if he will investigate the reasons for the non-delivery from Hull to the purchasers, Messrs. Thomas Sudden and Son, Limited, of Brighouse, of three consignments of maize, oats, and China beans, the first of which was bought on 31st July and the other two in the middle of September?

I have no knowledge of this or other individual consignments, and with the staff of the Ministry at its present dimensions I would find it quite impossible to take up such matters, but, in view of the dates quoted, if my hon. Friend will advise those for whom he speaks to forward him the full correspondence with the railway companies concerned, after which I shall be glad to go into the matter departmentally with my hon. Friend.

asked the Minister of Transport whether the weight of packages of perishable food sent by passenger train can now be conveniently increased to the pre-war weight?

This question has been considered, but it is not thought desirable at present to alter the existing restriction upon weight of packages which may be sent by passenger train.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will recommend to the Railway Executive Committee that reduced rates be charged to teams of elementary school boys travelling by rail to take part in the English Schools' Football Association Shield competition?

I regret that I cannot see my way to recommend the exceptional issue of tickets at reduced rates in favour of boys travelling to the football competition mentioned.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will grant free passes on the railways to men at the Enham Village Centre for disabled soldiers to proceed to their homes for Christmas?

I regret that I should not feel justified in throwing an additional charge upon public funds as a result of such a concession, or in treating the men at this particular centre exceptionally.

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that a conference was held on 1st December at Swansea representing all the metal, chemical, and other industries in South Wales and Monmouthshire, together with representatives of chambers of commerce, with shipping industries as well as trade unions engaged in the Welsh plate and sheet trade; if he is aware that the conference asked the Prime Minister to receive a deputation in order that he may be personally made aware of the chaotic conditions of railway transport and of the danger which threatens the future of this great industrial area; whether he has received a copy of the resolution passed at the conference in question; and whether a deputation will be received about the matter?

I am aware of resolution passed at the meeting at Swansea on the 1st December, and am in communication with the Welsh Plate and Sheet Manufacturers' Association, and the General Managers of the Companies concerned, on the subject.

asked the Minister of Transport if he will give any available information on the following specific points, in each case comparing the present position with pre-war conditions, namely, the number and total carrying capacity of available trucks, the rate of addition to rolling stock per annum, the average possible and actual loads per truck, the average weekly total of tonnage carried and revenue received; the average number of days occupied per truck per load, and the average number of trucks per day on which demurrage charges and sidings rents are chargeable?

I propose to deal with the whole question of Wagon Supply in a statement to be made on Thursday next, when I hope to be in a position to supply the hon. Member with the information that he requires.

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether the claims of clerks employed by the canal companies have been the subject of consideration by the Canal Control Committee; whether recommendations have been made to the. Minister of Transport; if so, with what result;(2) whether the Board of Trade has submitted the recommendations of the Canal Control Committee with regard to clerks employed on canals by canal companies; whether the Department has sanctioned the proposals; and whether he is aware that the delay is causing unrest among the men and that a continued delay is likely to lead to withholding of service?

I have been asked to answer these questions. The matter referred to has recently been under consideration and it, has been decided that the clerical staff of the Controlled Canal Companies shall be paid a war bonus on terms similar to those applied in the case of the clerical staff of Controlled Railway Companies.

asked the Postmaster-General how many supervising officers in the London postal service are over sixty years of age; if any have been granted extension during the past six months; whether it is intended, in future, to retire all officers over sixty years of age; and whether any vacancies will be filled up forthwith?

There are thirty-seven supervising officers in the London postal service who have already attained the age of sixty. Extension of service in these cases was authorised during the last six months. It is not the practice to enforce retirement at the age of sixty in the case of officers whose efficiency, health, and conduct are satisfactory. Vacancies on the supervising classes will be filled as they occur.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the Assistant Postmaster-General in the Government of the United States of North America, has stated that by use of aeroplanes to carry mails between New York, Chicago, and Washington at two cents a letter, a saving will be affected of over $1,500,000 in 1920 over all other methods of transit; and, in view of this statement, will he reconsider the airmail fee of 2s. 8½d. between England and France with a view to popularising this service and placing it on a commercial footing?

The sum of $1,500,000 referred to by the hon. Member is the estimated value of the travelling post offices and other railway rolling stock and the time of post office sorters which will be rendered unnecessary by the provision of the additional aeroplanes recently ordered by the United States Post Office for its air mail services. Payment for the conveyance of mails by rail in the United States is made on a basis different from that in force in this country; but I do not gather that the sum indicated is a net saving consequent on the use of aeroplanes for the conveyance of mails. The air mail service between London and Paris is experimental, and the arrangements are of a temporary character and will be reviewed after six months' working. I hope that when permanent arrangements for the service are made it will be possible to reduce the amount of the special fee.

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that the delay in obtaining telephonic communica- tion between London and Liverpool usually amounts to about three-quarters of an hour, and occasionally to an hour and a half or more; and if he can explain the causes of this delay and hold out any hopes of an improvement in this service?

I am aware of the delay referred to. Additional circuits are being provided between London and Liverpool, and I hope it will be possible to bring three of them into use this week.

asked the Postmaster-General if a large number of officials in the Post Office are being retired who have not reached the age of sixty-five, although still fully competent to discharge their duties; if, under the Treasury Regulations, sixty-five is the recognised age for compulsory retirement; if the adoption of this policy involves an immediate heavy charge for retiring allowances and pensions without ony corresponding advantage; and if he will give instructions for sixty-five years to be adhered to as the age for retirement unless strong reasons exist to the contrary?

It is the case that certain Post Office officials are being retired before reaching the age of sixty-five. This age is not the recognised age for compulsory retirement, but the maximum age allowed by the Order in Council. Any officer may be called upon to retire on reaching the age of sixty; and, generally speaking, it is found to be in the interests of the service to require men to retire within a year or two after reaching this age. My right hon. Friend is not prepared to adopt sixty-five as the normal retiring age.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller whether he will lay upon the Table a full Report setting forth the daily routine of instruction at the Gravesend school for sea training, including a statement of the subjects taught; whether any regular provision has been made throughout for the teaching of swimming; and if so, what swimming test was required of the youths so taught before they went to sea; what proportion of the pupils at the school were trained as stokers, where were they trained, and what other instruction did they receive; whether youths so trained signed an agreement to serve in the British Mercantile Marine for two years; whether any record is kept to show how many voyages such youths have made and how many of them are now actually unemployed; what provision is made for the certainty of employment of boys educated at the school; and whether any provision is made for the recreation of the youths under training, or any supervision exercised over them when on shore and not under instruction?

I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of the First Annual Report of the Organisation Committee of the Sea School, which fully describes the work of the institution.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping. Controller what sums were expended from the public funds on the Gravesend School for Sea Training during the first year of its working from September, 1918, to September, 1919, and during the present financial year, and under what heading in the Estimates such Votes are to be found; what sums were received from the shipowners towards the expenses of the school from September, 1918, to September, 1919, and during the present financial year; whether the gross cost per boy amounted to £6 10s. per month or to a larger figure, and whether that sum included any uniform for the period of training or any outfit when the youth was sent to sea; whether there is included in the total cost of working for the first financial year any payment to the Seamen's Home at Gravesend for rent or the cost of any alterations to the home, and any payment for the use of the "Stork" or the cost of the dismantling and re-rigging of that vessel; and, if so, what sums were so expended and under what headings in the Estimates are they to be found; what is the total amount of salaries paid to the staff of the school; and what was the largest number of pupils under training at any one time?

The sum expended from public funds on the Gravesend Sea School between September, 1918, and September, 1919, was, approximately, £14,000. Figures are not available for the period after September, 1919, but it is estimated that the total expenditure is about £3,500 per quarter. If the reference to the present financial year is intended to be the Government financial year, approximately £7,000 of the expenditure already incurred will fall within 1919–1920 Estimates, and I would refer the hon. Member to the speech that I made on the Estimates on 19th May last. The heading in the Estimates under winch the expenditure is provided for is Sub-head G (Hire and Expenses of Requisitioned and Other Vessels)—Other Payments. Up to September, 1919, no contribution will be made by shipowners towards the expenditure, but at the present time half the actual cost is being borne by shipowners. The cost of working for the first year does not include a payment to the Seamen's Home at Gravesend for rent, as this mutter is still awaiting reference to the Defence of the Realm Losses Commission by the owners of the home, During the first twelve months the cost per boy amounted to 23s. 4d. per week or approximately £5 per month, instead of £6 19s. per month as mentioned in the question. The inclusion of the rent will add approximately another ls. to the weekly cost per boy. This sum does rid include the cost of uniform or outfit, both of which are repaid by the youth out of his advance note on first engagement, or subsequently. No payment was made for time use of the "Stork,"but the figures quoted include the cost of removal to and from Gravesend (£450). The cost of tile dismanting and rerigging of the vessel, including the requisite attention to moorings, was just under £400. The total amount paid in salaries for the first year's W or k was £3,000 and the maximum number of pupils under training at any one time 220, the present number under training being 180.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware. that many local authorities in England are refraining from carrying Out road repairs and other necessary public works on the ground of economy; and whether the out-of-work donation could be more usefully spent if it were handed over to local authorities for the purpose of providing employment for persons in receipt of the donation on public works of an urgent and necessary nature?

I would refer ray hon. Friend to the reply given to a question on the same subject asked by the hon. Member for Pontypool on 19th November last.

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the depression in the linen trade of Belfast, by which thousands of workers are working halftime, and in view of the fact that the depression is due to the shortage of raw material through time Government's blockade policy in Russia, he will consider a scheme for augmenting the reduced incomes of the workers in this industry who rendered signal service to our Air. Force throughout the War in the manufacture of aeroplane cloth, and who, though anxi find it hard to exist on their present reduced earnings?

I cannot hold out any hope that the Government will able to extend the payment of out-of work donation, but I understand that arrangements are being made for payments to work-people on short time in the linen trade out of funds provided by the trade itself.

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to a mass meeting held in Bristol on 30th November, at which resolution was passed expressing regret at his action ism withdrawing the unemployment donation before work had been found, and expressing regret that such action was taken without the local unemployment committee being consulted on the matter; Whether he is aware that in on the 21st November there were, according to the official lists, 6,681 persons unemployed; that this number included carpenters, bricklayers, masons, painters, painters, general labourers, and builders' labourers; that approximately 1,000 of the number were men skilled or usually employed in the allied building trades, and therefore specially suitable for such work as could be organised by the Government or public bodies; whether, in view of the housing scheme, he will consider the position of taking national action to utilise the services of men connected with the building trades who are at present unemployed; whether he is aware that the figures quoted for Manchester, Newcastle, and Bristol are typical of other industrial centres; and whether, in view of the seriousness of the position, he can now state what measures are to be adopted to provide immediate employment or to maintain those who, through lack of national organised effort, are unable to find employment for themselves?

I have not received a copy of this resolution. On 21st November there were 6,931 persons drawing donation at the Bristol Employment Exchanges. Of these, 4,901 were ex-members of His Majesty's Forces, and therefore not affected by the stoppage of civilian donation. Of the balance of 2,033 civilians, it is estimated that over one-half are entitled to unemployment benefit under the Unemployment Insurance Acts, so that the total number for whom State donation or benefit is not provided is under 1,000. An analysis of the figures in other centres leads to similar results. The general question of the relief of distress is being investigated, but I do not think the figures quoted justify a demand for extraordinary measures. As regards the provision of employment by the State, the policy of the Government has been stated on many occasions and remains unaltered. With regard to the housing scheme in particular, the Government are taking various steps, as the right hon. Member is aware, with a view to stimulating and assisting private enterprise, and they are not aware of any other steps that could be taken which would be likely to be more beneficial in absorbing workpeople who are unemployed.

asked the Minister of Labour whether a discharged soldier who obtained employment before he had exhausted his title to unemployment donation and who is now out of work as a result of the moulders dispute is entitled to the remainder of his unemployment donation as a discharged soldier?

Yes, Sir; provided he is not disqualified for donation under the rules relating to trade disputes. The effect of this rule was explained in an answer given to the hon. Member for Chippenham on the 23rd October last.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has received from the national executive for Ireland of the Comrades of the Great War a resolution demanding that the women of Ireland who volunteered their services in the suppression of the common enemy should be eligible for the out-of-work donation as is the case in Great Britain; and, if so, does he propose to remedy this inequity between women of Ireland and those of Great Britain?

I have been asked to reply to this question. I understand that the women referred to are the immobile members of the Women's Service Corps, who were treated for purposes of the out-of-work donation as civilians both in Great Britain and in Ireland, and in consequence were subject to the general limitation of the scope of civilian donation in Ireland. Inasmuch as civilian donation has now entirely ceased in all parts of the United Kingdom, there is no longer any disparity of treatment in the case of these women as between Great Britain and Ireland.

asked the Minister of Labour how many employers, including Government industrial establishments and local authorities, have been added to the King's National Roll of Honour during the month of November?

Two thousand five hundred and eight names have been added to tile King's National Roll during the month of November. This total includes 101 local authorities. Government industrial establishments are not being dealt with individually, but as a whole. The information received up to the present indicates that well over 5 per cent. of the total number of employés in Government industrial Departments are disabled ex-Service men.

asked the Minister of Labour how many disabled but employable ex-Service men are at present out of employment?

The number of disabled ex-Service men registered as applicants for work at the Employment Exchanges and still unemployed on 28th November was, approximately, 44,500.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the demand for labour in the furnishing trades in Newcastle-on-Tyne is greatly in excess of the supply; that the Disablement Committee of the Newcastle-on-Tyne War Pensions had before them at their last meeting a statement showing that there were numerous vacancies in that area alone which could not be filled; that a resolution was passed by the committee recommending that, in view of the great demand for skilled workmen in the housing and furnishing trades, steps should at once be taken in order that training should be commenced forthwith in these trades; and if he proposes to take any action to give effect to this and similar resolutions in other parts of the country?

My attention has not hitherto been drawn to the resolution in question, but I am well aware of the demand for skilled labour in the furnishing and building trades, not only in the Newcastle district, but elsewhere. Every endeavour is being made to extend the training of disabled ex-Service men in those trades. As regards the Newcastle district, the Birtley Government Instructional Factory will provide 210 training places in building and eighty in furniture-making, and the Walker Instructional Factory 120 places in building and eighty in the furniture trades. Bricklaying classes have already started at Birtley and the remaining places at both factories will be made available with the least possibly delay.

asked the Minister of Labour how many ex-officers of His Majesty's Forces who applied for grants for training to the Appointments Board between 1st July or previously and 31st August had not on 2nd December received the decision of the grants committee?

The number is 1,735, so far as training in offices and works. This represents about 10 per cent. of the applications received up to the 31st August and not definitely cancelled by the applicants. I am not in a position to give similar figures for applications which have been passed on to the Educational nd Agricultural Departments.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has received a copy of a resolution passed at a mass meeting of unemployed in Manchester, the hardships being suffered there having caused the unemployed to send a deputation to the Lord Mayor, who has expressed the view that the unemployment pay should not have been stopped with such a large number out of work, and that the Government should give to local authorities immediate facilities to proceed with various works to reduce unemployment; and whether he can announce any action on the resolution and on the statements of the Lord Mayor?

I have not received a copy of this resolution, but inquiry is being made.

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the case of a. Mall who lost Ms employment at the beginning of the War, as the work on which he was engaged had to close down; whether he is aware that in March, 1915, he entered the service of the Post Office and remained until November last, when he was discharged to make room for a young unmarried soldier who was working at his trade as a gardener; that this discharged man had two sons in the Army, one of whom was killed, and has now seven children to support; that he is unable to obtain employment and is not receiving any financial assistance; whether he is aware that this case is typical of many now that the unemployment donation has been stopped; and whether, in view of the present situation. special efforts will be made to find such men employment?

I am making inquiry into this case, and will communicate further with the right hon. Member in a few days' time.

asked the Minister of Labour if he will state the increase or decrease in the number of unemployed in the first week following the suspension of the unemployment donation to those who are not ex-Service men?

The total number of persons registered as applicants for work at the Employment Exchanges on the 28th November was 575,141, a decrease of 16,798 compared with the 21st November,

asked the Secretary for Scotland what arrangements are being made to ascertain the population of the different wards in burghs for the purpose of the Scottish Temperance Act.; and what census or other available figures local authorities are to proceed upon for the duo carrying out of the requirements of Section 15 of the Act regarding the arrangement of contiguous wards of under 4,000 population as one area?

My right hon. Friend has been in consultation with the Registrar-General's Department in Scotland and is now in communication with the local authorities concerned with a view to the determination of the questions referred to by my hon. and learned Friend in the burghs where such questions arise.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, if the Government is prepared to give any financial assistance to the English to return to their own country from Austria; and will a free train be run, and if so, on what date?

British subjects in Austria had the opportunity of returning to this country during the end of 1918 and the early months of this year and were strongly advised to do so by the Spanish Embassy in Vienna. A number of special trains were run and many persons returned. Travelling expenses and a subsistence allowance during the journey were sanctioned for all those who availed themselves of this opportunity of returning before 31st March last. Since 31st March last no special trains have been run, nor, so far as this Department is aware, are any in contemplation.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any action has been taken by the Government, either on its own behalf or in connection with an Allied or Associated Power, to prevent or hinder the granting of credits to German-Austria, or to any other part of the late Austria-Hungarian empire; whether food-stuffs are at present detained in Trieste for lack of credits; and whether, in view of the fact that the population of Vienna is starving and that a formal promise has been given at the conclusion of the Treaty to look after Austria's needs in fuel and food, he will give an undertaking that no difficulties will be placed in the way of any persons able and willing to place credits at the disposal of the Central European peoples?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part of the question, I am informed that the difficulties which had arisen about making available for Austria terrain supplies of grain lying at Trieste are row in process of being overcome, and that a considerable proportion of those supplies has been despatched to Austria, by rail. As regards the last part of the question, his Majesty's Government have no intention of putting obstacles in the way of persons who wish to give credits to central European countries.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether, in view of the historic interest attaching to the antiaircraft gun which stood in Hyde Park and assisted to protect London from the attacks of German aircraft, arrangements can be made for this nun to be re-erected in Hyde Park on the sauce site with a suitable inscription?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. It is proposed to place in the War gallery of the Lendon Museum, Lancaster House, an anti-aircraft gun which formed part of the London Anti Aircraft Defences.