asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the notice issued by the. Ministry of Food. L.S.P. 11, regarding the branding by Government graders on the thighs of stock belonging to farmers which are brought to market for sale and are not sold; by what right, and under what Act of Parliament, Government graders are entitled to make these brands upon the private property of farmers, thereby lowering the value of the beasts so branded; whether the notice intimates that cattle presented for sale will only be dealt with on the understanding that this course is agreed to by farmers; whether he is aware of the indignation aroused among farmers at this practice; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter, which is having a very serious effect in stock-feeding districts?

I have been asked to reply. The system of marking rejected stock was introduced to put a stop to the practice of immediately transferring stock from a market in which it has been rejected as immature to other markets, on the chance that it might be accepted by another grading committee. The mark in question is a scissor-mark, and, I am informed, does not in any way injure the hide. The fact that a beast is so marked does not preclude the owner from again offering it for sale for slaughter as soon as its condition warrants such a course. The Food Controller regards the marking of rejected stock as a reasonable condition attached to the purchase of fat stack by the Ministry of Food and, seeing that it is designed to prevent the slaughter of immature cattle, he is not at present prepared to discontinue it.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether sales by auction of livestock shown at some of the fat stock shows has been permitted; and whether it is proposed to extend this permission to all Christmas fat stock shows?

I have been asked to reply. I would refer time hon. and gallant Member to the answer already given on this subject to the hon. and gallant Member for the Richmond Division of Yorkshire on Thursday, 4th December.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he can arrange that farmers who wish to sell their fat stock on the dead-weight basis in their own local market or area should have the opportunity of doing so?

I -have been asked to reply. Farmers have at present, and will have so long as live stock control remains in force, the option of sale on the deadweight basis at the nearest Government authorised slaughterhouse. In view of the temporary nature of live stock control the Food Controller cannot hold out any hope of an extension of these facilities since this would involve the taking over of further slaughterhouses on behalf of the Government.

asked the Minister of Food if his attention has been called to the high prices which are being charged for food and refreshments in restaurants, and also on confectionery and fancy bread; and what action, if any, he intends to take to defend the public against such prices?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to him on the 10th December. The Profiteering Act applies to the sole in restaurants of foods which have been scheduled under the Act; and cakes and confectionery, whether sold in restaurants or otherwise, are included in the schedule.

asked the Minister of Food whether any steps are being taken to check the import of meat, timber, wheat, and other produce into this country in larger quantities than can be dealt with by the dock and harbour authorities; and whether such produce imported from the United States and Argentine is largely responsible for the adverse exchange against us in those countries?

The adjustment of imports in relation to dock and harbour facilities is kept under careful consideration by the various Departments of the Government concerned. As regards the second part of the question, any reduction in imports from the United States and the Argentine would undoubtedly tend to improve the exchange position of the United Kingdom. Both the situation at the docks and the effect upon foreign exchanges are factors which always receive the closest consideration in connection with the importation of foodstuffs.

asked the Minister of Food whether, as the result of his conference 'with the Milk Prices Investigation Committee, he can hold out any prospect of lower prices for milk than are fixed by the Winter Prices Order for the months of January, February, March, and April?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given yesterday to the hon. and gallant Member for the Tradeston Division of Glasgow.

asked the Minister of Food whether his advisers now realise that the present high price of milk is in part due to the operation of control, involving producers in doubt as to future prices, as it does; and whether, in that event, he can announce that control will cease as from 30th April next?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, it is not proposed to continue the control of milk prices after 30th April, 1920.

asked the Minister of Food whether he is now in a position to make any statement with regard to the Report of the Committee which has been inquiring into the price of milk?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given yesterday to the hon. and gallant Member for the Tradeston Division of Glasgow.

asked the Minister of Food whether his attention has been called to the waste through improper packing of currants, rice, and sugar recently imported; and what steps he proposes to take?

Waste caused through improper packing of currants purchased on Government account has been extremely small, and the purchases are effected on terms by which the Ministry is safeguarded against any loss so caused. As regards rice, the Food Controller is aware that some small quantities are arriving in an unsatisfactory condition; this is, however, not due to improper packing, but to unavoidable delays in shipment. The recent reports as to waste of sugar are now being investigated.

asked the Minister of Food whether his. attention has been called to the resolutions of the Consumers' Council, the Executive of the Labour party, and the Trade Union Congress, urging the continued control of meat; whether the Government have decided to de-control frozen meat in spite of these protests; and whether, in that case, he can say what means the Government propose to take in order to protect the consumer from exploitation at the hands of the meat trusts?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The steps which have been take towards removing control of imported meat have merely had the effect of permitting retailers and the public generally to obtain whatever quantities of this meat they may desire. The protection afforded to the consumer by the enforcement of maximum wholesale and retail prices has not been removed.

asked the Minister of Food whether he will state the present strength and the annual cost of the personnel concerned with the control of the fish distribution and the precise facts on which the necessity of control is based; whether individuals in the fish industry were asked to state the case against control before it was actually re-enforced; if so, who were they and what did they say; and whether he is aware that the Fishermen's Union is strongly opposed to the reimposition of control?

The present strength of the personnel concerned with the control of fish distribution amounts to thirteen, of whom nine are engaged entirely on this work; the annual cost of the latter amounts to £3,875 The reimposition of control was rendered necessary by the high prices which the public were required to pay for fish, in spite of the fact that increased supplies were being landed. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. Certain sections of the trade were in favour of reimposition of control and others were against it, but I do not consider that names should be given The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

asked the Minister of Food what owners, fishermen, and merchants were consulted on the schedule of fish prices which has been worked out; whether any other experts were consulted and, if so, who; whether he is aware that bad weather in winter inevitably adds to the expense of fishing, reduces the catch, and therefore sends up the market price above summer levels; and whether he will state the percentage by which this year's catch is increased over last year's and the percentage in the increase of the price paid at the ports?

Representative owners, fishermen, merchants, and traders generally were consulted, but I do not consider that names should be given. The technical experts of the Ministry were also consulted. It is acknowledged that bad weather adds to the expense of fishing and sends up the market. price above summer levels. As regards the last part of the question, figures for Scotland are not yet available, but the figures for England show that the quantity of fish landed for the first eleven months of 1919 is rather more than 100 per cent. increase over the corresponding period of 1918. The average price paid at the ports shows a decrease and not an increase.

asked the Minister of Food whether it is the custom to measure the length of fish or to weigh fish at the fishing ports; whether these operations can be introduced without adding considerably to the cost of production; and whether distinction is made between fresh and less-fresh fish, such as North Sea and Iceland haddock and plaice?

The answer to the first part, of the question is in the negative. It is the case that these operations add slightly to the cost of production, but the Fish (Prices) Order, 1919, Clause 8, Subsection (6), specifically provides that a person may sell fish otherwise than by weight provided that the maximum price is not exceeded, and provided that he weighs such fish if so required by the, buyer. No distinction is made between North Sea and Icelandic haddock and plaice, but as prices are maximum, Icelandic fish do not in practice fetch the same price as North Sea fish.

asked the Minister of Food if he will favourably consider the request of the fishermen that the control of fish should be removed?

Having regard to the interests of the consumer, the Food Controller does not consider that he would be justified in removing, control of fish during the present winter.

asked the Minister of Food whether the services of the officials known as cattle graders have been dispensed with; and if not, when it is proposed to dispense with them?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As the work of the Grading Committees is an essential part of live stock control, their services cannot be dispensed with until it is possible to remove this form of control altogether.

asked the Minister of Food whether his attention has been called to the statements made by Sir T. M'Kenzie, High Commissioner for New Zealand, at Stafford, on 2nd December, namely, that beef is sold by New Zealand at 4½d. to 5d. per lb. for export and mutton 3¾d. to 6d. per lb.; and, if these facts are correct, what is the explanation of the high price charged for New Zealand meat in this country?

The Food Controller's attention has been drawn to the statement. referred to, but he is unable to express any opinion as to the accuracy of the figures quoted. All meat exported from New Zealand on Government account is purchased by the Board of Trade, and is transferred by that Department to the Ministry of Food at an average price of 10d. per lb. The Ministry of Food disposes of the meat to retailers at cost price with the addition of ½d. per lb. to cover transport and administrative charges. All questions with regard to the difference between the prices at which meat is purchased in New Zealand and those at which it is sold in this country should, accordingly, be addressed to the President of the Board of Trade.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is now in a position to make a statement as to an increase of the pensions of retired members of the Royal Irish Constabulary, having regard to the poverty of many of the pensioners under existing conditions?

I very much regret that I am not yet in a position to make any statement.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the firm of Short and Mason, scientific instrument manufacturers, Walthamstow, hold any contracts 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 of 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 will be taken by the Department under the Fair Wages Clause?

No orders have been placed with this firm since 1917; and nothing is known as to the dispute and strike at their works.

asked the Secretary of State for War. whether, under Army Order No. 325, of 1919, fixing the tradesman rate of pay in the Army at 5s. 6d. per day, this Order applies to military clerks in the Army Pay Corps, Army Service Corps, and Royal Artillery clerks, but does not apply to military clerks employed in record offices; whether many of these men are wounded men from oversea who joined under high categories; and whether he can grant the same rate of tradesmen's pay to the clerks in the record offices who are all carrying out responsible work?

The question is under consideration.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office why, under Army Order 324, 1919, the rank element in the assessment of retired pay to officers is only calculated after one year's service in that rank; and why the definite appointment to a certain rank does not carry with it the scale pension forthwith?

The regulation was drawn up after very careful consideration, and the condition of one year's service in the ranks was considered necessary and reasonable.

asked the Secretary of State for War on how many occasions during the last twelve months has the Army Council sanctioned the employment of counsel at courts-martial?

So far as I have been able to ascertain, there have been four cases in this country during the last twelve months in which counsel has been employed for the prosecution.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, having regard to the ready response to the appeal made by the late Lord Kitchener to ex-soldiers of all ranks to assist in the training of the New Armies, it is proposed to give any recognition, by way of distinctive badge or otherwise, to officers, non-commissioned officers and men who served in the military forces of the Crown at home during the period September, 1914, to September, 1918, but through no fault of their own, by reason of age, physical infirmity, or other cause, did not serve overseas?

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to my reply on 9th December to a question on this subject asked by the hon. and gallant Member for Bradford East.

asked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements, if any, have been made for leave for the troops who are now serving in France and on the Rhine at Christmastide?

All arrangements in connection with Christmas leave for the troops serving in France and Flanders and on the Rhine, are, subject to the exigencies of the Service, made by the General Officers Commanding under whom they are serving. Instructions have been issued that the leave of men from these Forces which would normally expire on the 24th, 25th, 26th and 27th December, is to be extended till the 28th, 29th, 30th and 31st December respectively.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private A. G. Mason, No. 89091, Middlesex Regiment, was demobilised on the 25th September last, and has not yet received a settlement of his accounts, although repeated applications 'have been made to the paymaster; and whether he will have the case inquired into?

My attention has not been previously called to this case, but I find that payments were made to this man on the 6th instant and (in settlement) on the 16th instant.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will state under what statutory enactment, Regulation, or other authority possession was taken by the Department of the land at Manston Park, near Margate, belonging to Mr. J. Proctor; for what purpose is possession still retained and whether it is proposed to occupy it permanently; if so, what is the reason for delaying negotiations for purchase; in the. event of the Department proposing to give up possession, will he state when this is likely to take place, and whether the premises will be put into the condition they were at the time when the Department took possession before restoration to the owner; and what proposals has he to make for compensating the owner for the occupation of the premises before and since the Armistice, or is it the desire of the Department that the occupier should be compelled to proceed with his claim before the War Losses Commission?

The answer to the first question is that this land was taken under the Defence of the Realm Regulations; to the second, that this is one of the stations which it is proposed shall be permanently retained for the use of the Royal Air Force; to the third, that the decision to retain this aerodrome has only recently been made and is subject to Treasury sanction, for which application will be made. In view of the above, the fourth question does not arise. The answer to the fifth and sixth questions is that the Air Ministry is not satisfied that the owner has sustained any loss, but that matter can be discussed in the course of the negotiations which mast take place when the Ministry is in a position to take final action.

asked the Secretary of State for War when it is proposed to grant a. complete discharge to demobilised men transferred to Z reserve; and whether a man in this reserve can be called up in consequence of any industrial crisis in this country?

I dealt with this matter in Debate on Monday evening last in answer to my right hon. Friend the Member for West Fife.

asked the Secretary of State for War when Sergeant G. Gilmour, No. 19447, 2nd Garrison Battalion, Gordon Highlanders, will be sent home for demobilisation; and whether he is aware that this soldier left Mesopotamia on the 20th March, 1919, for the United Kingdom and was detained at Kirkee Camp, Poona, India, and is still in India?

I am informed that all men from Mesopotamia detained in India during the suspension of demobilisation have now left, excepting forty men who are in hospital undergoing treatment. These will proceed when medically fit to travel.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his Majesty's ship "Castalia" has arrived with troops from Bombay; if so, when and whether the troops have been landed; and when will they be demobilised?

The steamship "Castalia" arrived at Liverpool on the 3rd December last. The troops were landed and sent to dispersal stations, where they were demobilised. Two hundred and forty troops were left in Egypt suffering from influenza, but these are now on their way home.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many members of the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps are still employed in Boulogne, Wimereux, Calais, and the North of France generally; and what is the nature of the work performed by these ladies?

There are at present approximately 1,294 members of Queen Mary's Army Auxiliary Corps serving in France. They are engaged on clerical and domestic work. All personnel of the corps will be sent home for demobilisation before 3:1st December, except sixty members who are employed on work connected with Graves Registration.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has received a memorial from the male civilian staff at the Army Pay Office, Hounslow, pointing out that the net weeklywage paid, irrespective of age, experience, capabilities and qualifications, is £2.17s. 4d., whilst the soldier clerk in the Army Pay Corps receives £3 7s. 6d., or, if married, £3 17s. 6d.; that the female staff have recently been granted a bonus of 5s. per week retrospective to April last; that this bonus has not been granted to the male staff although they are employed on identical work; that, in the periodical reductions taking place, ex-Service men and elderly and middle-aged men have been dischargd whilst married women, with husbands living and earning wages, and under-age girls have been retained; and that, although these dismissals have taken place, the staff are continually receiving appeals to work overtime; and whether he will give the memorial his careful consideration?

I have received the memorial, and it is under consideration.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can make any statement as to the release of ground occupied by his Department at Wandsworth Common, Ruskin Park, Camberwell, and Blackheath; and whether, in view of the necessity of these open spaces for the use of the public, he can urge on their immediate release?

I am obtaining a report, and will write to my lion. Friend as soon as possible.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Report from the Military Mission in Berlin upon the story that there are still a number of Allied prisoners of war in Quedlimburg Camp has yet been received; and, if so, whether he will communicate its purport to the House?

No Report has yet been received.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the British Mission in Southern Russia have reported upon the breakdown of internal communication in that area; whether there are some 1,500 locomotives awaiting repair; whether the necessary workshops and repair plant previously used in France and elsewhere by the railway ordnance directorate could he dispatched to Southern Russia; and whether, until trading facilities are re-established in Southern Russia, there can be an adequate settlement of the existing situation?

The British Mission in South Russia has several times reported upon the chaotic state of internal communications in the area under General Denikin. Every effort has been made by the Mission to reorganise the railways, and with the same object technical railway materials to the value of £500,000 and commodities and clothing to a similar value are now being sent out by the War Office. With regard to the second part of the question, there is no definite in formation of a date later than the middle of September, when the number of locomotives awaiting repair was considerably in excess of 1,500. With regard to the third part of the question, the answer is in the negative. The bulk of the workshops and repair plant in France are now, I understand, in process of sale. As regards the last part of the question, the railway materials now being sent out are purely a relief measure, and I am afraid no radical improvement of the situation can be expected until trading facilities are re-established.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will dispose of all or part of the stocks of hay held at Grange Court and Culkerton, in Gloucestershire; and whether he is aware of the shortage of hay in the county of Gloucester?

It is regretted that it is not practicable to release the hay at Grange Court and Culkerton, as all hay at present held both there and elsewhere is required for Army purposes.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many German prisoners of war remain in this country other than aviators and the naval prisoners concerned in the Scapa Flow sinkings; whether the repatriation of these men is being proceeded with; when repatriation is expected to be completed; and how many British soldiers are still employed as guards for prisoners?

The numbers are: Officers, 1,373; other ranks (of whom some are invalids), 457. Their repatriation is being proceeded with as speedily as possible. An exact date cannot be given, owing to uncertainty as to the provision of transport. Twenty British officers and 863 other ranks are employed as staff and guards of all camps still open in this country.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will state for what reason the award of 10s. per week increase of salary as from 1st April last has not been granted to the civilian employés in the War Department Record Offices whose present rate of pay, 57s. 4d. per week, at current prices is not sufficient for the support of the men and their families; and whether he will consider their claim to the benefit of the award in connection with the heavy work still entailed upon the Records Department having regard to the importance of the speedy demobilisation of men now in progress?

The increase of 10s. referred to does not apply to clerks in Army Record Offices. The latter are on a fixed scale of pay and receive in addition the full clerical bonus under Award 84 of the Civil Service Arbitration Board. Instructions have just been issued authorising the application also of Award 101 of that Board.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the Almeric Paget Massage Corps was taken over by the War Office in 1916, thereby causing the members of this corps to come under all Rules and Regulations of military service; and whether it has now been decided to grant these members a war gratuity?

The Almeric Paget Massage Corps was recognised by the War Office in 1916 as the source of supply for the massage service; but this gave members of the corps no claim to any gratuity, as to which I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply on 24th November to the hon. Member for Yeovil.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the Post Office employés who joined the Post Office Rifles were granted full civil pay, plus Army pay and war bonuses as and when awarded to the men who remained in tie civil employment of the Post Office less 1s. per day; and whether on being demobilised they were given the war gratuity?

Postal servants who joined the 8th Battalion, City of London Regiment, were treated for civil pay on the same lines as Civil servants in general. They were eligible for the War gratuity.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether, in view of the fact that in a large number of cases the amount of war gratuity paid to ex-soldiers and to dependants of deceased soldiers is less than the scale to which they are entitled, he will state if the authorised scale is for the first year £5, for the second year £6, and for each subsequent year of service £6; and if it is possible when paying the gratuity to those entitled to it to submit a statement showing the period to which it relates, and the deductions, if any, for debit in respect of the soldier's general pay account?

The amount of the War gratuity depends on the soldier's rank and on the length and circumstances of his war service. For full particulars I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the Royal Warrant of the 17th December, 1918. The general issue of the gratuity is now nearly completed, but any ex-soldier who is in doubt as to the correctness of the amount paid to him can obtain from his Paymaster full particulars of his account.

asked the Secretary of State for War if the question of pensions for ex-soldier clerks in the War Office is under consideration; and, if so, if he will retain such men as are about to be discharged owing to having reached the age limit until the matter is decided?

The eligibility of these ex-soldier clerks for pensions is still under consideration. I am not able to in Ike any promise that, pending a decision, they will be specially retained in employment after they have passed the normal age limit.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he has had an application for a pension from Mrs. Mowatt, widow of Private G. H. Mowatt, No. '2036, Royal Scots; whether he will state what decision has been given and the reasons which led him to give the decision; and whether he is prepared to forward a copy of the military medical omcer's report on Private G. H. Mowatt's heart trouble to his widow or have it placed in the Library of the House?

Private Mowatt was discharged from the Army in April, 1916, for gunshot wound in the right hand, and died three years later from pleurisy and pneumonia. During the period between his discharge and his death lie had worked regularly at his pre-war occupation. After careful consideration of the case, the medical advisers of the Ministry could find no connection between Private Mowatt's death and his military service, and it was therefore only possible to award a limited pension under Article 17 of the Royal Warrant. No evidence of heart trouble can be found in any of the documents in the possession of the Ministry. Mrs. Mowatt has been informed that she has a right of appeal to the Pension Appeal Tribunal if she is not satisfied with the Departmental decision.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether his Department receives, or has received, any and what difference in price per ton for phosphate rock, pyrites, or sulphate of ammonia, respectively, over the price per ton which his Department paid for it; and, if so, for what work done by his Department has this difference in price been received?

I regret to say that there is no profit on these transactions; the second part of the question does not therefore arise.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether he mill state the circumstances under which an increase of £150 a year was granted to the head of the Establishment Department since the Armistice an amount six times in excess of the annual increment of £25 he is entitled to in his permanent grade of £375 as a Civil Service clerk in the Board of Education, and what the maximum pay of the appointment is that this official is now said to be holding?

For the answer to the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer that I gave on the 15th December to the hon. and gallant Member for Bournemouth; the answer to the last part of the question is that., in accordance with the usual Treasury practice, no maximum rate has been fixed for the position, owing to the fact that it is of a temporary character only.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether 'he will state the respective salaries the four accountants, one engineer, and one metal expert were receiving in the Ministry on leaving the service, together with the daily allowances they are now receiving on being reemployed by the Ministry; whether, in the case of those who are lent by firms to whom the daily fees of from four to ten guineas a day are paid, these firms have one or more of their partners working in the Ministry; and, if so, whether it is in accordance with the fitness of things that these firms should be allowed to employ officials leaving the Ministry, and make a profit by lending them to the Ministry on such high rates of daily allowances?

Of the four accountants in question one, at the time he left the Ministry, was receiving a salary of £450, one of £235 per annum, and two of £1,000 per annum each. The allowances paid for the occasional services of these officers are six guineas, four guineas, five guineas, and ten guineas a day, respectively. The engineer, who oil his resignation was receiving pay at the rate of £2,500 per annum, was given ten guineas a day for three weeks' special service and the metal expert, who worked in the Ministry on a voluntary basis during the War is paid four guineas a day for occasional service. The firms have charged the Ministry the commercial rates ordinarily paid for such professional services. In one instance—that of the accountant—whose daily rate is ten guineas, I am informed that whilst he is employed in the Ministry the firm are precluded from employing the officer else where at a considerably higher rate. One of the hrms lending the services of an accountant has a partner who, during the War and up to the present time, has given gratuitous service both to the War Office and to the Ministry. The Ministry are indebted to the firm who have so generously placed the services of both these gentlemen at their disposal.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether a. voluntary worker, named Gill, in the Central Stores Department was given a salary of £800 a year since the Armistice; and, if not since the Armistice, from what date it Was given and under what circumstances?

The official referred to, who, since January, 1916, has served in the Ministry on a voluntary basis, was appointed on 12th June, 1917, to be Deputy Controller in the Department responsible-for the administration of the Stores and Inspection Bonds of the Ministry, receiving as from that date the salary of £800 per annum, sanctioned by the Treasury for the post. He was promoted to the office of Controller in April last, but left the service of the Ministry on 30th June to return to his commercial activities, where he is paid a salary greatly in excess of the one he received in the Government service.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether a clerk named Wishart, in the office of the Controller of Munitions Timber Supply, was paid a salary of 31s. 6d. a week paid weekly, and had his salary raised to £500 a year since the Armistice; if not, front what date it was raised; and whether with retrospective effect?

The official referred to, who had been rejected for military service, is a barrister by profession, accepted a post in the Ministery in 1916 at the salary of 31s. 6d. a week ordinarily paid to clerical assistants. He proved himself to be a man of exceptional capacity, and was given rapid promotion. In view of the increasing responsibilities of the work he undertook, his salary was increased by stages to £300 per annum, from which it was advanced with Treasury sanction to £500. This latter advance was made on 26th October, 1918, on his appointment to be Assistant Controller of Timber Supplies, and was not retrospective.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Munitions whether, in view of the. fact that the legal advisers to the Crown having advised that expenditure on jigs and tools and fixtures should not be regarded as capital expenditure and as such should not be admissible as production expenses, he will explain that notwithstanding this decision he informed the House that payments are being made to contractors on account of jigs and tools as establishment or overhead charges; and whether he will state the total amount paid to contractors on account of jigs and tools prior to the legal ruling given, and why such payments were ever made at all before seeking the legal opinion that was eventually taken and which proved to be adverse to such payments being made?

The hon. Gentleman is under a misapprehension as to the pre-misses on which this question is based, inasmuch as the Law Officers of the Crown advised in the contrary sense to that suggested.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether he has applied to the accounting officer to the Ministry, otherwise known as the Controller of Departmental Finance, who is located at the Hotel Metropole, for particulars of the claim of £30,000 on a contract that was made in June, 1918, cancelled in November of the same year, in which no rate was specified and no deliveries made; why, after the claim was passed by the Ministry, payment was stopped by the Treasury on a certain discovery being made by a Ministry official; and whether this officer, as a reward for his discovery and for the saving of such a large sum of money, has been brought under demobilisation?

The Controller of Departmental Finance referred to has been again consulted, but I can only repeat the assurance given to the hon. Member on 24th November that if definite particulars of the contract are given, I will cause inquiries to be made.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether the original papers connected with the case reported by an accounts officer to the head of his Department as to the evidence of boxes being sold to a. contractor for 6d. each and being bought back by the Ministry at 5s. 6d. each were asked for and furnished to a Departmental Committee of Inquiry appointed by the Minister several months ago; if so, why no explanation has yet been made as to why no action was taken on the Report; and whether the official who failed to do so has since been honoured, on the recommendation of the Ministry, by a knighthood?

A similar question was put to me by the hon. Member for the Western Isles on 24th November. I then said that I should be very grateful to be furnished with any information on the subject. I regret that I am unable to take the matter further until the information is supplied.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether the offer of a West End firm of estate agents and auctioneers to provide their own staff and prepare an account from Ministry records of all the boxes supplied to Ministry contractors and to dispose of them at contractors' works on terms to be discussed was actually considered; if so, by whom, the reason for its non-acceptance, and why no reply was ever sent to the firm; whether, while rejecting this offer made, a Ministry Controller held two auction sales of boxes at Immingham and another place, which turned out a failure, boxes being sold for as little as 1d. each, when further sales were discontinued; whether he is aware that the Ministry was warned by one of its officials that the method of disposing of boxes adopted by a Controller, and doing so by employing a large staff of inspectors and sub-inspectors all in England to dispose of boxes, would be an impossible and equally unprofitable thing to attempt; whether, in view of the fact now admitted that the receipts from the sale of boxes recovered from contractors did not cover the cost of recovery, he will ascertain who the official is that is responsible for the loss entailed by his method of disposal in the face of the warning given and the offer made by a firm who were already disposing of large stocks of surplus stores for another Government Department; and whether this Controller can be made personally liable for the loss?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the hon. Member for the Western Isles on 1st December.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether he can state the date or dates of the construction agreements entered into by the Ministry with the Partington Steel and Iron Company; what is the amount the Ministry agreed to advance to the company, and on what conditions as to repayment; how much of this sum had been advanced at the date of the Armistice; and how much is yet to be advanced by the terms of the agreement?

The Minister of Munitions entered into an agreement with the Partington Steel and Iron Company, Limited, in connection with the extensions of the company's steel and iron works On the 7th May, 1917, the terms of which have been modified during the current year. The amount to be advanced to the company by the Ministry under the agreement is limited to £1,625,623. Of this advance 40 per cent. of the approved cost of the extensions was to be a contribution, but such contribution was limited to £700,000, and the balance of the advance was to be a loan at interest repayable over a period of fifteen years. The amount advanced to the date of the Armistice was £661,946. There is still to be advanced under the terms of the agreement the sum of £349,625.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions (1) whether he can state the number of persons in Woolwich affected by the withdrawal of the unemployment donation; how many since such withdrawal have obtained employment; what steps it is proposed to take to assist the remainder during unemployment;(2) whether he can state the number of women in Woolwich who are affected by the withdrawal of the unemployment donation; how many of these have received training; whether they are entitled to insurance pay; whether any have applied for relief from the Poor Law guardians; whether any have obtained employment; and what steps it is proposed to take to assist the remainder during unemployment?

I have been asked to reply to these questions. '1'he number of men drawing donation at Woolwich as civilians at the date of cessation of civil donation was about 1,100. About 680 of these began to draw unemployment benefit as soon as donation ceased. It is not known how many of the remainder obtained employment, but practically all of them discontinued their application at the Exchange for work, as is evidenced by the fact that there was a reduction of about 420 on the live register at the Exchange. There has since been an increase of about 150 in the number of teen claiming unemployment benefit; on 12th December this number stood at 1.010 (including 180 who were already drawing benefit before donation ceased). The number of women drawing donation as civilians at the date of cessation of civilian donation was about 640; and so far as is known none of these have received training. Only about twenty of them appear to have transferred immediately to unemployment benefit; but a further number subsequently claimed benefit, as appears from the fact that the number on benefit increased by 440 between 21st November and 12th December. Information is not available as to the number who obtained employment, but the number of women on the live register at the Exchange decreased by 360 between 21st November and 12th December. It is not known whether any of the women concerned applied for Poor Law relief. The committee of the National Relief Fund is considering the question of giving relief in cases of exceptional distress due to unemployment arising out of the War, and an announcement on this matter may be expected to be made shortly.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has received information regarding the recent serious disturbances in Trinidad; and whether he will make a statement thereon?

No further Report has been received from the Governor, and I am accordingly unable to add anything to the statement I made on Monday.

asked the President of the Board of Education whether the Board of Education recommended no further increases in the pay of naval schoolmasters in July, 1919, in the face of the recommendations of the Jerram-Halsey Committee, who were well acquainted with the schoolmasters' conditions of service and work; and whether, in the case of schoolmasters who succeed in obtaining their discharge from His Majesty's Navy, their full periods of service in the Navy will be taken into account in fixing their commencing salaries in schools recognised by the Board of Education ashore?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part of the question, the Board does not fix the commencing salaries of teachers employed by local education authorities and governing bodies, though it prescribes minimum salaries in public elementary schools.

asked the Home Secretary whether lie intends to revise the salary of the newly appointed chief inspector of mines; and, if so, what will be the amount of salary?

I am in communication with the Treasury in this matter, and am unable at present to make any statement.

asked the Home Secretary if, in the nomination of candidates for the inspectorate in the Mining Department, he will arrange that Scottish students will have their fair share, so as to do away with the present anomaly of Scotsmen having only about one-twelfth of the appointments instead of one-sixth, which is the just proportion fur Scotland?

In nominating candidates to compete for mines inspectorships, I act on the recommendations of the Board for tinning exammations, to whom all applications are referred, and who judge each case solely on its merits. I am not prepared to approve any discrimination on behalf of Scotsmen, who are as a rule well able to obtain their fair share of appointments without any special provision being made in their favour.

asked the Home Secretary if lie intends to appoint a deputy-chief inspector of mines in place of the late deputy-inspector of mines, who has been promoted; and if, in view of the fact that for over two years the work was satisfactorily done by one official,- he will, in the interests of economy, allow the appointment to lapse?

The answer to the first question is in the affirmative, and to the second in the negative. The new chief inspector, Mr. Walker, was able to carry on successfully as acting-chief inspector during the last three years without a deputy; but only by working long overtime and at a sacrifice of health which he could not now be asked to continue; nor would it be possible for a single officer, however capable, to deal unaided with the accumulation of questions which were left in abeyance during the war but which Cannot now be further suspended.

asked the Home Secretary whether he has any information regarding the introduction into the Chamber by the French Government of a Bill dealing with aliens; and if he can state whether such Bill contains provisions for the expulsion or exclusion from French territory of German and other former enemy aliens?

I understand that a Bill dealing with aliens was introduced into-the French Chamber of Deputies by the French Government in June of this year and has been referred to a Committee. From a copy of the Bill which has been received at the Home Office, it appears that it contains no special provisions for the general deportation or exclusion from French territory of former enemy aliens. It does, however, reserve power to the Minister of the Interior to prohibit aliens from entering or remaining in districts to be prescribed by the authorities, and the object of this provision, according to the Memorandum prefixed to the Bill, is to enable access to the devastated regions to be forbidden, where necessary, to certain aliens whose nationality might render their presence there provocative of disturbance.

asked the Home Secretary if it is imperative in coal mines using electricity, with unarmoured cables, in which inflammable gas has never been found, that the provisions of Regulation 137 of the electrical rules should be carried out; and, if so, will he consider the advisability of granting exemption, under the special. circumstances, to such mines, keeping in view the fact that to insist on the requirements of the Regulation some mines may have to close down?

Regulation 137 is of general application and is not confined to mines where gas is found. The armouring of cables is necessary to guard against electric shock and other dangers, as well as against the risk of explosion, and it is, I am advised, a most important requirement in the interests of safety. Any application for exemption on the grounds specified in the Regulation will be carefully considered, but no exemption could be granted on the ground merely that no inflammable gas had been found.

asked the Home Secretary whether men of the Metropolitan Police Force are employed at race meetings held inside or outside the Metropolitan Police area; if so, is any charge made for their attendance, and what is the charge; and do constables, who are sent to race meetings, receive any extra pay or allowances?

Metropolitan Police are employed at certain race meetings both inside and outside the Metropolitan Police district. They are charged for at rates which vary according to rank, from £3 4s. 8d. a day for superintendents to £1 4s. 8d. a day for constables. They receive no extra pay, but receive the following subsistence allowances: Superintendents, 10s.; inspectors, 8s.; sergeants and constables, 6s.

asked the Home Secretary whether Baron Louis Anton von Horst was given permission to come to London from the Isle of Man in July, 1918, and, if so, under what conditions and at whose instance; whether that, permission was withdrawn in the early part of August, 1918; and, if so, for what reasons?

No such permission was given.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the Assistant Commissionner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, special branch, informed the solicitors of Miss Lillian Scott Troy, an American citizen, that the detention of Louis Anton von Horst had nothing to do with Miss Troy, and that her presence or otherwise in this country had no bearing on the question of his continued detention in an internment camp in this country; and whether he will state the reason or reasons for this statement?

I am informed that the Assistant Commissioner of Police wrote a letter to certain solicitors to the effect stated. His reason for so doing was to correct a misconception which appeared in a letter which they had addressed to him.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to some recent inquests held in London, when it was proved that anæsthetics had been administered in hospitals by unqualified persons; and whether he proposes to introduce legislation to prevent this practice in the future?

Yes, Sir, I am aware of the matter referred to, and the subject is receiving my attention in relation to the recommendations of the Departmental Committee on Coroners. I cannot at present make any statement in reply to the second paragraph' of the question.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that in respect of houses over the statutory limits fixed by the Increase of Rents and Mortgage Interest Acts there exists a widespread practice for landlords under a threat of notice to quit and ejectment proceedings to exact from the tenants large and wholly unjustifiable increase of rent, in some eases repeated at short intervals, so as to shift the burden of Income Tax and other charges upon the tenants, who are thus compelled to pay excessive sums for lack of alternative accommodation; and whether, in view of these circumstances, he will consider tin, desirability of amending the Increase of Rent and Mortgage Interest Acts so as to extend the provision to premises of higher rentals with retrospective effect?

I may refer my hon. Friend to the reply given by the Prime Minister on the 15th instant to a similar question of the hon. and gallant Member for Southport. The Government will be glad to receive particulars of cases in which tenants are subjected to such action as is indicated.

asked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry whether any and, if so, how many Belgians and other foreigners are living in the Government houses at Rafborough, near Farnborough, Hampshire; and whether these houses can be allotted to discharged soldiers instead?

I have been asked to answer this question. Only one alien, a Belgian, is living at Rafborough. He is a married man with two children, and is, moreover, a highly-skilled engine fitter employed at the Royal Aircraft Establishment, and as such is entitled to a Louse in Rafborough.

asked the Attorney-General whether the alternative accommodation which a landlord has to find for a tenant before dispossessing him under the Increase -of Rent and Mortgage Interest Acts, 1915–19, and the Courts (Emergency Powers) Acts, 1914–16, means accommodation not less favourable to the tenant than he enjoyed previously; and, if it can be interpreted otherwise, whether he will introduce any amending legislation to make this clear?

The question of alternative accommodation arises under Section 5 (2) of the Increase of Rent and Mortgage Interest.(Restrictions) Act, 1919. No such question arisen under the earlier Acts or under the Courts (Emergency Powers) Acts. In cases to which Section 5 (2) of the Act of 1919 applies the Court has to consider all the circumstances, especially the alternative accommodation available for the tenant. It is not necessary that the landlord should find the accommodation, and the phrase does not necessarily mean accommodation not less favourable to the tenant than ho enjoyed previously, though, of course, the nature of the accommodation available, and the fact, if fact it be, that it is less favourable to the tenant, are matters to be taken into consideration in deciding whether it is reasonable to make an order for recovery of possession. The Section deals with the case of a landlord who has purchased the, house since the 30th September, 1917, and who requires it for his own occupation or that of a person in his employ. No amending legislation appears to be necessary.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that the registration officer for the East Riding of Yorkshire, whose duty it is to prepare the burgess roll for the borough of Beverley, on the 12th April, 1918, called the attention of the Local Government Board to certain difficulties which would arise and additional expense which would have to be incurred unless an order were made altering the boundaries of certain electoral units in the borough Beverley, and that the Local Government Board then declined to make the order suggested, but that in a letter, dated the 30th May, 1919, addressed to the registration officer, the Board stated that they had given further consideration to the matter, and were then prepared to entertain an application for the issue of the order suggested by the registration officer in his letter of 12th April, 1918; whether he is aware that the extra cost, except the cost of printing, which had necessarily been incurred as regards the burgess roll for the borough of Beverley in connection with the preparation of the first and second registers, in consequence of the refusal of the Local Government Board to make the order suggested in April, 1918, has been disallowed by the Treasury; and whether, in the circumstances, he will cause representation to be made to the Treasury that such disallowance should be quashed and that the county council should be paid the amount claimed by them?

I am aware of the correspondence which is referred to in the question, and I understand that the Treasury have disallowed certain items in the claim for repayment of expenses in connection with the first register in respect of additional cost incurred by reason of a separate register of local government electors for the borough having been prepared. I am not at present aware of any necessity for the preparation of this separate register, and upon the information before me I see no ground on which I could take such action as is suggested.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the great scarcity of coal in the urban district of Enfield, as a result of which large numbers of the poorer inhabitants are unable to get any supplies; and whether he will have immediate inquiries made into the matter with a view to an improvement?

I am aware of the scarcity of coal in Enfield. This has been due mainly to the inability of the Great Eastern Railway Company to transport sufficient coal to keep the merchants and dealers supplied. Every effort is being made to relieve the situation.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the seriousness of the position with regard to the supplies of household coal for the East End; and if he will say what steps are being taken by his Department to remedy the position?

The present shortage of house coal supplies for the East End of London is mainly due to the inadequate transport facilities available. Arrangements have been made to bring in emergency supplies.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is able to state the result of the investigations of the accountants regarding the cost of coal?

The investigation is not yet complete.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the expenses incurred by local authorities in Scotland in connection with coal control, which began in the end of September, 1918, have not yet been adjusted for the six mouths ending 31st March, 1919; whether he is aware that no payment of expenses subsequent to 31st March, 1919, has yet been made; and what is the explanation of the delay?

The payment in respect of expenses incurred by local authorities in Scotland in connection with the administration of the Household Fuel and Lighting (Scotland) Order, 1918, for the period ended 31st March, 1919, were made in accordance with a provisional scale of Grants. This scale has been under revision, having regard to the actual expenses incurred in the first six months, and the decision of the Treasury as to the adjustments which will be made will be communicated to local authorities during the present week. The necessary payments will be made as soon as. possible.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, inasmuch as profiteering is the direct result, of the scarcity of all articles of common use and consumption by the public caused by the War, and the pro- blem of dealing with the excessive profits charged is a national one, he can defray the whole of the expenses of local committees under the Profiteering Act, i919, out of the national Exchequer as in the case of local tribunals under the Military Service Acts and the Food Control Committees, etc.?

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Plaistow on the 1st December.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a Committee under the Profiteering Act has been set up in Belfast; whether, of the twenty-five seats on the Committee, fifteen have been allocated to members of the city corporation, one for each of the wards; whether in filling the remaining ten seats two more seats were assigned to members of the corporation; whether on the invitation of the Lord Mayor names of representatives of the consumers were to be sent forward; whether in the ease of the Belfast Co-operative Society, which trades with a fourth of the citizens, their nominees were rejected though strongly recommended by the Lord Mayor; and whether, in view of this injustice to a large section of the community, he will take steps to have it remedied?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the remainder of the question, I would remind the hon. Member that the power of appointing the local committees has been delegated to the local authorities, and it is for the local authority appointing a committee to decide, subject to the Board of Trade Regulations for local committees, what societies or associations shall be given representation on the committee.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the import of toys from Germany and the Netherlands, the latter having been manufactured in Germany, which amounted together in October to £18,865 and in November to £51,881; and whether, in view of this considerable and rapidly increasing import from Germany, which is very materially helped by the low rate of the German exchange, he will again consider the advisability of taking steps to protect the recently developed British toy-making industry?

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply which I gave on Monday to a question by my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Southport.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any restrictions on the import of matches into this country are still in force?

No, Sir.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make a statement in regard to any possible reduction in the present retail price of knitting wool?

There is no shortage in the immediate or prospective supplies of wool in this country, but the demand has largely been concentrated on the finer varieties and this helps to maintain the present high level of prices. Further, the transport of wool is subject to considerable delays, owing to congestion at the ports, and shortage of railway wagons. When transport conditions improve it is hoped that the greater freedom of supplies will have a favourable effect upon retail prices.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has yet considered the Report of the Committee on Industrial Alcohol received last June; and whether it is the intention of the Government to carry out the recommendations contained in the Report?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. The recommendations of the Report of the Inter-departmental Committee have been under consideration by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, and I am taking preliminary steps, in consultation with the Director of Fuel Re- search, to enable the Department to deal with the alcohol question in an effective manner.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Great Western Railway Company have issued instructions to their agents to furnish no particulars as to the movements of traders' wagons, and that traders are in consequence prevented from tracing wagons which have been lost on the railway system; and whether this attitude on the part of the railway management concerned has his sanction?

No new instructions to the effect named have been issued, and in view of the great amount of clerical work which would be involved, I regret that it is net possible for the present to alter the instructions which have been in force during the War. But the companies will, I am sure, give any information which is reasonably possible as regards wagons which are long overdue.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is now in a position to state the result of his inquiries into the reopening of the railway line between Sutton-in-Ashfield town station and the junction that was closed owing to the War?

I am not yet in a position to reply to this question, as my inquiries with the railway company are not complete.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will give representation to the distributive traders on the tribunal of reference to be set up under the scheme for the joint control of railways, in view of the vital interest that such traders have in railway transport?

I am afraid I cannot add anything to the answer I gave on Monday last to the hon. Member for Pontefract.

asked the Minister of Transport if he can state the reason for the delay in delivery of 550 tons of cement ordered by the borough engineer of Smethwick six weeks ago from Messrs. Nelson, Crescent Wharf, Birmingham; whether he is aware that this cement is required for work of public importance which would give employment to a large number of workmen; and, in view of the fact that there are about 5,000 unemployed in the town, whether he will take immediate steps to expedite delivery?

This case had not previously been brought to my notice. I am having inquiries made.

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that. a large quantity of timber has been lying about at or near Challow Station, Berkshire; that little or none has been sent away for at least six months in spite of frequent representations having been made to the Great Western Railway Company on the subject; and that consequently, owing to the congestion at the station, it has not been possible to receive any further timber there for transport for over six months; and will he take steps to have this matter remedied immediately?

I am not aware of the state of affairs indicated, but am having inquiries made, the resu1t of which I will communicate to the hon. and gallant Member.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller whether his attention has been called to the first annual report of the organisation committee of the Gravesend Sea School and to the statement that swimming was one of the subjects of instruction during the period under review; whether he will state what provision was made for the teaching of swimming; what tests were passed by the pupils; and how many pupils, if any, were drafted into the Mercantile Marine without passing the tests?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The only means of teaching swimming so far available is the open-air swimming baths at Gravesend, which necessitates the limiting of the instruction to the summer months. As the Gravesend School, during its short life, has been open mostly during the winter months, a com- paratively small number of boys have been able to take swimming instruction. Out of 1,000 boys shipped, 360 have qualified as swimmers to the satisfaction of the swimming instructor.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that at Invergowrie, near Dundee, there are ten workmen's houses let to business people from Dundee for holiday purposes which are only occupied for a few weeks in the summer each year; whether he is aware that there is a grave housing shortage in the district; and whether he will ask for powers, if they do not already exist, to prevent the letting for holiday purposes of working-class dwellings in Scottish villages so long as the present housing shortage lasts?

I am informed that the position at Invergowrie is substantially as stated in the first and second parts of the question, and that the local authority are preparing a scheme for the erection of ten houses. As regards the general question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the powers vested in local authorities under Sections 11 and 29 of the Housing and Town Planning (Scotland) Act, 1919.

asked the Secretary for Scotland if he will state the extent of the land acquired in Scotland for the settlement of discharged soldiers and sailors; the number of men actually in possession at Martinmas last; and the total acreage of land converted into small holdings in Scotland since the beginning of 1915?

Twenty-six thousand six hundred and fourteen acres have been acquired by gifts or under the Small Holdings Colonies Acts. In addition, 90,173 acres have been purchased under the Congested Districts Act, mainly for ex-Service men, and 58,771 acres have been made available under the Landholders Acts since the outbreak of war, much of which will be allotted to ex-Service men. In addition to the ninety-two ex-Service men who were settled prior to Martinmas, as stated in my reply to a question on the 10th ultimo by the hon. and gallant Member for Central Aberdeen, agreements have been made for entry to 163 new holdings and for forty-four enlargements. It is not yet known precisely how many men have availed themselves of their right to take actual occupation. In reply to the third part of the question, the total acreage is 91,284 acres.

asked the Secretary for Scotland when the Board of Agriculture got entry into the farms of Midlocharwood, Dumfriesshire, and Aratella, Ross-shire, which were acquired under the Small Holdings Colonies Acts; and how many ex-Service men have been settled on them to date?

The Board obtained entry to Midlocharwood at Whitsunday, 1918. It is used principally as a training centre for ex-Service men, of whom seven are in residence. In addition, one holding has been formed and is occupied by an ex-Service man. The Board entered the farm of Aratella at Martinmas, 1918. One-third of it is used as a central farm. Agreements have been made with fourteen ex-Service men for entry to holdings on the remainder of the farm as from Martinmas last.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether it is the policy of the Government to encourage the restoration of the acreage under hops to the pre-wr standard; whether he is aware that the present uncertainty as to the Government's intentions makes it impossible for farmers to plant a crop that takes several years before yielding any return; and whether he can give an assurance that the control of hops will be continued for not less than five years; in order to affor the necessary minimum of security to farmers for increasing the hop acreage?

Under the provisions of the imports and Exports Regulation Bill it is proposed to authorise the prohibition of the importation of hops except under licence for a period of four years, in order to allow the growers of hops an opportunity of reinstating the crop and of bringing into bearing again the area which was compulsorily reduced during the War. The control of dealings in hops which is exercised by the Hop Controller depends upon the powers enjoyed by the Food Controller. Under the provisions of the War Emergency Laws (Continuance) Bill now before the House, it is proposed that this power shall be continued for a period of one year after the termination of the War.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture how many cases of rabies there have been in London during the past three months; and whether he can now see his way to withdraw the present muzzling Order?

I am glad to be able to say that no cases of rabies have occurred during the past three months in the area controlled by the London, Middlesex, and District. (Muzzling and Control of Dogs) Order. The Board hope that if no further case of rabies is confirmed in the London district before the 31st January next it may be possible to withdraw the existing restrictions, or at least to reduce them. I may mention that the area to which the restrictions apply was considerably reduced on the 20th October last, and that certain concessions are now made to persons wishing to take their dogs out of the London district.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether the Government have considered the advisability of extending the scheme of land reclamation from the Wash, thereby providing large areas of valuable land and giving work for thousands of men in substitution for any unemployment dole or charity; and will the Government consider the advisability of asking the cooperation of the respective local councils within whose areas the land to be reclaimed is situate for their advice and assistance in the direction of the work?

The Board have carefully examined their reclamation scheme on the Wash in the light of the need for national economy, and have somewhat reduced its scope. They cannot contemplate any extensions at the present time, but if and when any new scheme seems desirable they will consider the views of the local authority in the area affected.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the British Mission which was detained by Arabs on its way to visit the Iman Yahy at Sanna has yet been released; and, if not, whether he can give any information concerning it?

The Mission are reported to have arrived safely at Hodeidah on the 13th December, and to have left the same day for Aden. No further details are available.