(by Private Notice) asked the Leader of the House whether he has any further information in regard to the mission of Sir Percy Cox?

This is a long reply, but I think that the House would wish me to read it.

An appreciation of the political situation has now been received from Sir Percy Cox, High Commissioner, Mesopotamia.

The energetic steps taken to suppress the rising have proved so successful that there is no further cause for serious anxiety. The arrival of Sir Percy Cox aroused general expectancy as to the steps which he proposed to take in the direction of giving effect to the intention of His Majesty's Government to form a national Government. Already for some time past a Committee of about 30 ex-deputies has been occupied in framing an electoral law for the creation of a representative Congress of all sections of the people of Mesopotamia. The draft of this law will be complete very shortly, but a considerable period must elapse before the elections can be completed and a decision reached on fundamental issues. Meanwhile, to meet the immediate requirements of the situation, the High Commissioner has adopted the following purely provisional measures:

The Naqib of Baghdad, whose public prestige and the respect in which he is generally held make him eminently suited for the position, has been invited to form a Council of State, with himself as President, for the conduct of the administration until such time as a National Assembly can meet and decide upon the future form of Government. This Council of State will be representative of all parts of the country, and will consist of 17 or 18 members. Of these members, eight (in addition to the Naqib himself) will hold portfolios for the administration of the existing Departments, with the advice of the present Secretaries and subject to the guidance and direction of a High Commissioner. The portfolios, which are to be assigned by the Naqib, are as follows:—Minister for the Interior, Minister for Finance, Minister for Justice, Minister for Pious Foundations (namely, something in the nature of our Charity Commission), Minister for Education, Minister for Defence, Minister for Public Works, and Minister for Commerce.

It is understood that the following gentlemen have been invited by the Naqib to accept office in the Provisional Government: Saiyid Talib Pasha (Basrah), Sassoon Effendi Haskail (who held office under the Ottoman Government before the War), Hassan Pachachi (a leading lawyer of Baghdad), Mustapha 'Alusi (Baghdad, formerly Qadhi of Mecca), Izzat Pasha (Kirkuk), Ja'afar Pasha (who held rank as Major-General in the army of Emir Feisal), Muhammad Fadhli (Mayor of Mosul), and 'Abdul Latif Pasha al Mandil (leading merchant of Basrah). The remaining members of the Council include a leading Christian of Baghdad and one of Mosul, a prominent Kurd of Sulaimaniyah, the head of a leading Shia' family of Baghdad, and two of the most influential Shaikhs among the settled Shia' tribes.

The distribution of portfolios will be reported later. The above steps were taken by the High Commissioner after visits to all three Vilayets (Basrah, Baghdad and Mosul), during which he interviewed all important Shaikhs and leaders of opinion both publicly in Durbar and privately in conversation with each important individual, to whom he explained the policy of His Majesty's Government and the objects of his own Mission.

May I ask if a Grand Council is going to be assembled in Ireland to administer the law in that country?

May I ask if my right hon. Friend is aware of the very large opinion that there should be a Debate on this question, and whether, in consequence of the very important statement which he has just made, he does not think that it is quite desirable that there should be a Debate? Would he give a day or half a day between now and Christmas having regard to the fact that the Secretary of State said that probably the Supplementary Estimate would not be introduced until next Session?

In any case, I will consider the suggestion, but I think, probably, it is desirable that we should first have a written communication from Sir Percy Cox. This has only come by telegraph.

asked the Secretary of State for War what was the expenditure in Mesopotamia from 1st April to 30th September last?

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply on 27th October to the hon. Mumber for Clitberoe.

Will the statement cover the whole of the period referred to?

I think it gives all the information we can give at the present time, but I think it would be desirable to have a calculation made of the not extra cost of the Mcsopotamian garrison, and I will endeavour to have that done.

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that we get that information before the Debate on the Supplementary Estimate taka place?

Certainly. I think that is very desirable. I did not know that any Debate was immediately in prospect.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say when the Supplementary Estimate will be laid on the Table?

As at present advised I do not think it will be necessary this Session. I think it will come on after Christmas. As far as I can see up to the present there is sufficient money available to carry on for the, time being. There are considerable economies in other branches of the service.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a desire on the part of a very large number of Members to discuss the question of Government expenditure in Mesopotamia, and if it cannot be raised on the Supplementary Estimate, will the right hon. Gentleman consult the Leader of the House as to when we can have an opportunity, which I gather the House generally desires, for a discussion?

Nobody knows better than my right hon. Friend what are the resources at the disposal of the Opposition with regard to the discussion of any question they may desire to raise.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer stated, in answer to a question, that there would be a Supplementary Army Estimate before Christmas?

I am not aware of that. There must be a Supplementary Estimate for the Army before the expenditure of the year is disposed of by Parliament. Whether that will be before Christmas or when we re-assemble I cannot tell. My own feeling was that there would be no financial reason for bringing it on.

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise the very great desire in quarters of the House where we do not desire to move a vote of want of confidence in the Government to discuss the right hon. Gentleman's proceedings in Mesopotamia?

No doubt that de sire can be represented in quarters where an authoritative answer can be given. I have to come before the House when I require money, and I do not immediately require money.

asked the Secretary of State for War what has been the total expenditure on account of the garrisoning of Mesopotamia and the military operations carried out therein from the armistice with Turkey to the present date?

I regret that the form in which the accounts for Parliament have been kept does not enable me to give the figures asked for.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any British military representatives are with the forces of General Balahovitch or Permikin?

No, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether all units of the Territorial Force will be allowed to send representative officers and other ranks to the Armistice Day ceremonial parades, or on what basis the Territorial Force will be represented?

I regret that considerations of numbers and space in Westminster Abbey preclude the individual representation of every unit of the Regular Army and Territorial Force. Each regiment in the Army will, however, send three representatives on behalf of the regiment as a whole, and one of these representatives will be detailed from a Territorial battalion of the regiment concerned. In addition, the Honourable Artillery Company, the Yeomanry, and the County of London Regiment will supply small detachments to represent the non-affiliated units of the Territorial Force.

asked the Secretary of State for War who supplied the troops breaking out of barracks to perform recent and admitted cases of reprisals in Ireland with lists of the leading Sinn Feiners which enabled them to discriminate between houses of Sinn Feiners and those of innocent people; and whether it is the practice of the military intelligence service in Ireland to circulate its secret information to the rank and file of the forces stationed in that country?

With regard to the first part of the hon. Member's question, the identity of many leading rebels is common knowledge in most Irish towns, and is in many cases blatantly advertised by the individuals themselves. The answer to the second part is in the negative.

asked the Secretary of State for War what method is adopted at military dep6ts and barracks in Ireland for checking the issue of petrol, hand grenades, ammunition, and other Government stores; whether soldiers are able to obtain such articles for reprisals on Irish towns, as in the case of the recent raids on Bandon and Mallow, among others; whether soldiers are allowed to use motor lorries without permission for entering Irish towns at night; and what steps are being taken to prevent the use of Government vehicles and stores for reprisals in the future?

I am informed that most careful arrangements have been made for safeguarding petrol, ammunition and hand grenades, and for checking issue, and also to have them ready for instant use when required for the support of the police. Except on escort duty, soldiers are not allowed to use the lorries. There is only one case known, at Mallow, in which motor vehicles were taken without permission, and disciplinary action was taken in this case.

Will the right hon. Gentleman state how the troops at Bandon and elsewhere managed to get petrol if it is carefully checked, and what is done to see that the petrol and other stores are not taken in moments of excitement?

With regard to the second part of the question, I have nothing to add to what I have already said. As to the first part, I understand that inquiries are still proceeding.

With regard to Mallow, what disciplinary action has been taken by the Government with regard to the soldiers who took Government lorries without permission for a joy ride at night—

Shut up!

Golliwog!

I am endeavouring to give a serious answer to a question put in rather an offensive form. As far as I know, the inquiries which have taken place in Ireland by the Command has led to a decision to try several soldiers and non-commissioned officers by court-martial, and until those trials are completed it is not possible for me to make any further statement.

(by Private Notice) asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether there has been a renewal in the last two days of the policy of reprisals, Littleton, Thurles, Tralee, Bally-bunion, and Ballyduff; and whether he is now prepared to give a definite assurance that the Government will take immediate and adequate steps to break down this policy of frightfulness which is aggravating the already deplorable conditions in Ireland?

I only received notice of this question at noon, and have been quite unable to get reports from the five different places mentioned by the hon. Member. I can assure the hon. Member that there is no Government policy of reprisals. What are called reprisals are frequently legitimate acts of self-protection by police and soldiers in searching houses, shops, and other premises for criminals, ammunition, and explosives. The five places mentioned in the hon. Member's question are towns in Tipperary and Kerry; there have been four policemen murdered and ten wounded with the last few days, and a thorough search for the assassins is proceeding in these counties.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the "Times" newspaper has made a definite charge against the Government that they are the originators of this policy of reprisals, and if that is a false statement is he prepared to prosecute the "Times"?

I am not aware of the statement myself; but in law a misstatement is not necessarily a ground for action. Anybody can accuse the Cabinet of any crime and be free from legal action.

Does the right hon. Gentleman seriously assert that the making of a misstatement in a newspaper is not an offence, while he himself is prosecuting the "Freeman's Journal" in Ireland for this offence?

Is it not a fact that these statements, which have been made repeatedly by the newspapers and in public; have not yet been denied by the Government?

I have denied them at different times myself, and I deny them now.

I press for an answer to my question. If it is an offence for which Irish newspapers are brought before courts-martial in Ireland to make statements which are not true, and if this statement be untrue, why is "The Times" not prosecuted, and other newspapers in this country ns well as Irish newspapers?

Is it not the fact that if a newspaper in this country were prosecuted for making an untrue statement it could plead the custom of the trade and get off?

If there is no policy of reprisals, has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been drawn to the speech of the Prime Minister at Carnarvon and of the Secretary of State for War at Dundee condoning excesses committed by troops and police in Ireland?

What would you do if you were an Irish policeman doing your duty? I would if I were one of them.

Why do you not be one of them?

Why do not you?

I must ask the hon. Member not to interrupt the proceedings.

I am sorry, but may I call your attention to the other hon. Member? I suppose I have some rights as this House as well as the Bolshies.

You ought to be put into Madame Tussaud's.

All right, Sitting Bull.

I beg to ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House on a definite matter of urgent public importance, namely, the continuance of the burning of creameries, the firing of towns, and the destruction of life by the forces of the Crown, and, in view of the aggravation of the appalling conditions in Ireland which these outrages have created, the immediate necessity for such strong and vigorous action on the part of the Government as will put an end to this disastrous policy of frightfulness.

I am afraid that I can not accept the hon. Member's Motion. With regard to the continuance of the burning of creameries, there has been no evidence whatever since the last Debate. With regard to the firing of towns, the only evidence is founded on newspaper reports. The hon. Members asked questions to-day and the Chief Secretary for Ireland said that he was not in a position either to accept or deny the reports. I think, therefore, the hon. Member ought to wait until he receives some information. The same remark applies to the destruction of life by the forces of the Crown. I do not think there has been any further evidence to-day, but, if the hon. Member to-morrow has any evidence, or if the Department has any information upon any of these matters, I shall be quite prepared to consider a further proposal.

Thank you. I shall move the question to-morrow, in case the conditions which you lay down are fulfilled.

asked the Home Secretary what charge to public funds was involved by reason of the public funeral granted by the authorities to the Lord Mayor of Cork, a brigadier-general in the Irish republican army, who committed suicide by starvation in Brixton prison prior to the expiration of his sentence of imprisonment; how many police were employed in connection with the said funeral; what was the cost of the special steamer which was used convey the lord mayor's body from Holyhead to Cork; under what Vote will this expenditure come before the House; and what is the estimated loss to the business community by reason of all traffic being suspended in a large portion of Central London and the City for nearly an hour?

No public funeral was given by the authorities. The funeral was arranged by the prisoner's friends, and its cost will fall on them. It is not desirable to give the number of police employed along the route to maintain order and regulate the traffic. I understand the cost of the steamer has not yet been ascertained, nor has it been determined by the Treasury on what Vote the charge will fall. It is, of course, impossible to estimate the loss, if any, caused by the, suspension of traffic, but the police did their utmost to minimise the obstruction, and I understand that the delay was not serious.

Is the hon. Baronet aware that there is a strong body of opinion in this country which cordially supported the Government in their last action in paying respect to a brave and possibly misguided man?

(by Private Notice) asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether it is a fact that following the wounding of a policeman at Dungannon Town a number of armed and disguised men invaded the town and discharged grenades, rifles and revolvers; whether any business premises were wrecked; whether the Ulster Volunteers were communicated with and turned out and, with the assistance of a large crowd who congregated quickly, began to make reprisals, bombs being thrown into many large trading establishments, while other sections of the crowd, with petrol supplies, carried on the work of destruction; and what steps have been taken to protect inoffensive citizens from these disgraceful attacks?

I only received this question at noon to-day. I have communicated with Dungannon, and asked for an immediate report on the allegations made by the hon. Member, but must point out with all respect that it is quite impossible to give a specific answer to a long series of charges of this kind within a few hours after they are made. I may state generally that it is true that a policeman was wounded in Dungannon on Sunday night. It is the first unhappy event of that kind that has occurred in Dungannon, and I am told, not officially, but from other sources, that the whole countryside is up searching for the assassin or attempted assassin.

Is it not the duty of the right hon. Gentleman as Minister responsible for order in Ireland, to have information regarding incidents of this character that have occurred almost two days ago? May I ask whether he reads the. "Morning Post," as he ought as a Member of the Government, and if so, whether he has not read of these things in that newspaper, and whether he proposes to prosecute the "Morning Post"?

I endeavour to read as many papers as I can in order to inform myself. Let me point out to the hon. Member, if I may, in answer to his supplementary question, that when an unhappy event of this kind occurs, every policeman and every police officer and every soldier and every military officer is at once on day and night duty in trying to ferret out those who are responsible for the assassination or attempted assassination, and it is very difficult to get immediately a detailed report of the incident. It is very easy for a pressman on the spot to telegraph any information he may have, or the events which he may see, direct to his newspaper. I can only answer through the proper channels—the men who are responsible.

May I ask whether the same passionate activities which the right hon. Gentleman describes as being displayed by the military and police in trying to find out who wounded this policeman are also being manifested in trying to bring to justice the malefactors who burn the homes of decent and inoffensive citizens?

May I ask the Chief Secretary if it is not a fact that the parish priest of Dungannon himself has stated that the attack upon the policeman was the attack of a man trying to murder the policeman, and that well-disposed people af all shades of opinion in the district are horrified at the attempted outrage in Dungannon?

In view of the testimony from the hon. Member who has just addressed a question to the House, which is in accordance with the testimony of the right hon. Gentleman himself, that this attack on the policeman was condemned by the parish priest and by the general community, is not that an additional reason for protecting the lives and property of these innocent people who condemned the offence.

T can assure the hon. Member that every effort is made to protect the lives and property of the innocent and inoffensive people, but who are innocent and inoffensive——

Disgraceful!

—is a matter of which I have, no official knowledge.

Disgraceful!

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he has the power, as Secretary of State for Air or as Secretary of State for War, to deduct debts alleged to be due by soldiers from their war gratuities?

asked the Secretary of State for War if any deduction may be made from the amount due to a soldier or airman on discharge as war gratuity on account of any debt incurred during service in the field?

The war gratuity of soldiers is not attachable for debt other than one arising from deficiencies in articles of equipment specified on the dispersal certificate. In the case of airmen, deductions are made in very exceptional uses. The Royal Warrant provides that the war gratuity granted to an airman may be held liable to meet any public claim that may be outstanding against him, any Service debt that may be due from him, and any Service claim that the Air Council may direct him to pay. In ordinary cases, however, this liability is not enforced.

Why is a difference made between airmen and ordinary soldiers?

I should like to investigate that point.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that nearly one applicant in every three who appeals to the Ministry of Pensions Tribunal is successful in his appeal; and if he will take such steps as may be necessary to avoid putting so many persons to the trouble of appealing?

The proportion of appellants successfully appealing to the tribunal is approximately as stated, but it is necessary to bear in mind that the proportion of appeals to rejected claims is less than 15 per cent. Thus the successful appeals represent less than 5 per cent, of the adverse decisions given by the Ministry, and this fact may, I think, be regarded as a testimony to the care with which all claims are considered in the first place. No claim is rejected by the Ministry without the most careful consideration of all the relevant facts of the case; and my right hon. Friend does not consider that any further steps in the direction suggested can reasonably be expected of him.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether officers of the Royal Flying Corps were paid 5s. a day field allowance whilst they were prisoners of war, but offices of the Royal Naval Air Service were not paid this allowance under the same conditions; and whether any steps are now being taken to remedy this inequality of treatment?

Issues of field allowance, lodging allowance, and fuel and light allowance were made to officers of the Royal Flying Corps who were prisoners of war at varying rates, according to their rank in the service. These amounted, in the case of lieutenants and second-lieutenants, to about. 5s. a day. As from 1st April, 1918, when the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service were amalgamated, the same allowances as had been previously issued to the Royal Flying Corps were authorised for all officers of the Royal Air Force who were prisoners of war. Any question relating to the allowances payable to officers of the Royal Naval Air Service before the 1st April, 1913, should be addressed to the Admiralty.

(by Private Notice.) asked the Secretary of State for Air what steps he proposes to take in regard to the resolutions passed by the Air Conference?

The proceedings of the Air Conference are to be published as a Command Paper.

Can we have an assurance that the right hon. Gentleman will bring the very important resolution relating to Egypt before the Cabinet at the earliest possible moment, so that it may be fully considered before the conclusion of the negotiations?

I have already done so.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that experience of its working makes the farmers increasingly dissatisfied with the Daylight Saving Act; and, if the Act cannot be abolished, will he consider curtailing its operation so that it shall only be in force from May to August?

I am aware that there is some dissatisfaction among agriculturists regarding this measure. The question of the effect of the system on agriculture has been repeatedly considered, and the Government have not seen their way to shorten the period as suggested; but the whole subject will come under the consideration of Parliament when the Government introduce their Bill to make the system permanent.

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that before any further extension of the Daylight Saving Act is made representatives of the agricultural industry will be consulted?

The Daylight Saving Act has been extended by the Emergency Laws Continuation Bill for a year after the Peace. Before any further extension is made, of course the House will have to be consulted.

I was referring rather to extensions, such as that made on the occasion of the miners' strike.

asked the Home Secretary whether any instructions have been issued as to the calling of women jurors; whether any fixed percentage of men jurors is recommended; whether a prisoner can demand to be tried by a jury of his or her own sex; and whether the right to challenge can be exercised in regard to sex alone?

Rules have been made under the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act with regard to the service of women on juries by the Rule Committee of the Supreme Court on the 12th July last, and by the Rule Committee established under the Indictments Act on the 15th of the same month. They provide that on every panel of jurors men and women shall be ass nearly as possible in the =same proportion as in the list from which the panel is drawn. A prisoner is not entitled to be tried by a jury of his or her own sex, but it is within the discretion of a court, on application made to it, to order that a jury shall be composed wholly of men or wholly of women. The right of challenge remains as it was before the Act. It is for the court in each case to determine how it may be exercised.

asked the Home Secretary whether he can ensure that police officers employed in controlling traffic, in main thoroughfares in London have in all cases full instructions as to where motor vehicles waiting in such thoroughfares should be parked while waiting; and can arrangements be made for motor vehicles to be under police supervision while so parked?

The police do their best to direct drivers to suitable places for waiting, but they cannot, of course, guarantee that there is room in any particular place. Police supervision is given to waiting motor vehicles, so far as possible, but they cannot accept responsibility for vehicles left unattended.

Seeing that the in structions with regard to the parking of motor vehicles in London are altered almost every week, cannot we have some definite publication showing where motor vehicles may be parked when waiting in important thoroughfares?

I am afraid I cannot agree with my Noble Friend that the regulations arc, altered weekly. I do not think that anything more can be done. The police have to use common-sense, and do the best they can for the convenience of the public.

Will the hon. Gentleman provide better accommodation at the police courts for Members of the House against whom proceedings are taken under the Act?

I think the ordinary accommodation is quite good enough.

asked the Home Secretary whether any special instructions have recently been issued to the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in respect to the control of the speed of motor vehicle traffic; and whether it is intended to carry out any experiments with the automatic electric light control system in the Metropolitan Police area such as is used at night in towns in certain foreign countries?

No special instructions of the nature indicated have recently been issued to the Commissioner. If the second part of the question refers to what is known in America as the traffic towers, the Commissioner of Police does not propose, at any rate at present, to experiment with these in London.

asked the Home Secretary how many controls were in operation in the Metropolitan Police Area for timing of motor vehicles exceeding the speed limit between a.m. and p.m; how many controls for the detection of cases of driving to the common danger was instituted; how many police officers were employed in each case; how many cases of exceeding the speed limit were reported; how many cases of dangerous driving either by control or officers on point duties were reported; and in what areas most of these offences were reported?

During the week-end a.m. 30th October to p.m. 1st November two controls were operated to detect infringements of the speed limit; six officers were employed, and seven cases of excessive speed were reported for prosecution. Five controls were in operation to detect cases of dangerous driving, and four officers were employed. Four cases of dangerous driving were reported by officers on control duties and eight by officers employed on traffic or fixed point duties. The greatest number of cases was reported in the inner area.

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the difference of opinion as to who were responsible for the trouble which arose in Whitehall on the 18th October in connection with the demonstration of unemployed, he proposes to institute an Inquiry into the whole of the circumstances?

My right hon. Friend has gone fully into the circumstances, and is satisfied that the outbreak was caused by a disorderly crowd which had gathered in the vicinity of the procession but did not form part of it, and that the police were in no way to blame.

Is the hon. Baronet aware that there are a considerable number of people outside—responsible people —who question that decision, and does he not think, in view of the fact that this is the second incident of the kind within the last few months, that it is wise to investigate the cause of such disturbances, in order that steps may be taken to avoid such scenes as happened recently?

I do not think that any further investigation is called for. A very full report was made on the subject, and my right hon. Friend was quite satisfied that the police did their duty; and, as I have stated, the disorders arose, not from those who were taking part in the procession, but from a totally different let of people altogether.

May I ask upon what evidence the report concerning this question was based?

The evidence of the officers who furnished the report. My right hon. Friend is entirely responsible for the attitude and action of those officers, and he assumed complete responsibility for it in this case as in all others.

In order to know the true cause, is it not necessary to know both sides of the situation, and are there not people who hold quite a different opinion from the finding of the Home Office?

I am afraid that there will always be two opinions upon every thing. We have to go by the reports of the responsible officers, and I do not think that there is any chance of the case being re-opened.

Will it be arranged in future that the officers in charge of the various districts of the Metropolitan Police will be left in charge of their own contingents, and not someone who is a stranger to the people who have to control the crowd, seeing that men who know the people are able to deal with them better?

I do not think that that point arises. There was nothing abnormal in the treatment of the crowd on this occasion.

Is it not a fact that the charge has been made against the police authorities that it was owing to the change of control that the trouble occurred?

There was a charge that the police had ordered the procession to move on, but that charge has been disproved. The order for the procession to move on was given by the representative of the organisers of the Workers' Union, who was in charge of the procession.

Can the hon. Baronet give an assurance that, as far as possible, due warning will be given to a large crowd or collection of people, possibly including women, before mounted police are employed?

Everything possible was done, but when a situation such as this arises the police have to do the best they can.

Would it not be better for the hon. Gentleman to copy the Chief Secretary for Ireland and deny everything?

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that the cost of the Education Act per annum per scholar in the parish of Hounam in 1918–19 was £8 and in 1920–21 it is £18 1s. in the parish of Yarrow it was £4 and now £16; in Garngunnock £6, now £37 17s. 6d.; in Drymen £7, now £68; in Killearn £2 6s. Id., now £31 13s. 4d.; Strathblane £4 2s., now £40 19s.; Baldernoek £5 19s., now £31 4s. 3d.; Fenwick £1, now £16; in Largs £3 10s. 10d., now £22 7s. 10d; in Arrochar £5, now £24 3s., and that practically all the other rural parishes in Scotland are similarly afflicted; was he aware when he introduced the Act that it would have such an effect upon the rates; if he was aware, was any public indication given to the ratepayers that such increases were to be inflicted upon them so as to enable them to defend themselves; and, if such rates are continued, does he think that rural ratepayers will be able to have any children to send to school?

As to the first and second parts of the question, while I have not verified the actual figures quoted, it is a matter of common knowledge that there has been a marked rise in the education rate in many rural parishes in Scotland. As to the third and fourth parts, in so far as this rise is duo to the same causes as have produced a rise in the cost of the other necessaries of life, I think that its full extent was not and could not have been foreseen. On the other hand, in so far as it is the result of the Act, I was, of course, aware that the enlargement of education areas, which involved an equalisation of contribution from the constituent parts of each, was bound to result in a gain to some parishes and a loss to others. I have no reason to suppose that, in the many discussions that took place regarding the Act, both inside and outside of the House, this obvious consideration was absent from the minds of those who interested themselves in the matter. The last part of the question is, I apprehend, intended to be humorous rather than serious.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this enormous increase of rates in this and other parishes will make it almost impossible for those who have large families of children to raise those families—that it takes them all their time to keep in touch with the butcher and the baker and to feed them? Is he not aware that in the country districts of Scotland there will be no satisfaction till his entire Act is repealed, and is he willing to apply the principle of local veto to this Education Act?

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers that, may I ask whether he is aware that this opposition to education of the people is more imaginary than real, and limited mainly to questions in this House?

It is difficult to answer all the questions which have been put to me, but I am rather inclined to agree, if I may say so, with my right hon. Friend opposite (Mr. Thomas). With regard to what, my hon. and learned Friend (Mr. Macquisten) has said about local veto, I understand that he has just come back from a campaign against that principle, and I am, therefore, rather surprised that he should seek to apply the principle to education. I think the form of this question suggests that this matter can be much better discussed in another way than by question and answer. I hope to have an opportunity of meeting my Scottish colleagues next week to discuss this question, and I hope that my hon. and learned Friend will be there.

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the objection in Scotland is absolutely overwhelming in every district; that, when I mentioned it at any meeting recently in Scotland, it was greeted with a storm of derision and hatred there; and that nothing has moved the feelings of the Scottish people more deeply than that this Act has been imposed upon them?

Is the right hon. Gentleman of opinion that the audiences that the hon. and learned Member would meet would be the best judges?

I do not know what audiences my hon. and learned Friend would meet, but I claim to be as well acquainted with the feeling in Scotland as he is, and I think that his interpretation of that feeling has been grossly exaggerated.

Does the right hon. Gentleman remember that, on the occasion of the discussion of the Scottish Estimates, when an hon. Member wished to raise this question he had no opportunity of so doing; and has the right hon. Gentleman any intention of abating this oppression, which is obvious to every visitor to Scotland?

The incident to which my hon. Friend refers was one which I could not possibly have prevented. The discussion on the Scottish Estimates was limited through no fault of mine. With regard to the remedy for the problem which undoubtedly exists, that is to be discussed among the Scottish Members at the earliest possible moment, with a view to finding a remedy.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are some thing like 300 or 400 parishes—

Sir Alexander Sprot.

asked the Secretary for Scotland if he is now prepared with some form of relief for parishes where the substitution of the county for the parish as the rating unit for education is causing hardships?

I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that I am giving this matter my most anxious consideration, and that I will welcome any specific suggestion for a solution of the problem which may come from him or from any other responsible person.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, so long ago as December last, he gave me an assurance, and gave the same assurance to a deputation, that the Department have under their consideration the possibility of devising some suitable form of relief for parishes where the substitution of the county for the parish as the rating unit for education may have caused hardship?

The Department is undoubtedly engaged in considering that matter now, but the solution of the difficulty is not nearly so easy as my hon. and gallant Friend seems to think. As I have said, if he has any suggestion to make I shall be most happy to consider it

Is it not from the right hon. Gentleman that the suggestion ought to come, and not from me?

I shall certainly be ready to make proposals when I have the honour of meeting my Scottish colleagues, but I am far from regarding myself as the only fount of wisdom in this matter, and I hope my hon. and gallant Friend will assist me.

asked the Secretary for Scotland when the Bill dealing with Fiars Prices in Scotland will be presented?

My hon. and gallant Friend probably refers to the Bill to deal with Teinds and Stipends. The Bill has now been drafted, and I hope it may be possible to introduce it at an early date.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that if this Bill is not passed this Session a totally new situation will arise, and the whole of the agreement that has been arrived at between the parties concerned, after considerable time and difficulty, will be lost?

As I was a party to the consultation between the interests concerned, I am well aware of the urgency of the matter, and I hope, therefore, it may be possible to pass the Bill.

This Session?

I hope so.

asked the Secretary for Scotland how many cases in which farms had been scheduled for the purposes of setting up small holdings the notices have been withdrawn; what area is involved in these notices; and for what reason they have been withdrawn?

The Board of Agriculture have withdrawn notices issued by them under Sub-section (9) of Section 9 of the Land Settlement (Scotland) Act, 1919, in respect of 25 farms, embracing an area of approximately 27,000 acres. In the majority of these cases, this course was rendered necessary because, owing to the rise in prices generally, commitments in respect of other approved schemes had so increased as to render it inexpedient to proceed with the schemes to which the notices in question referred.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether instructions have been issued to the Small Holdings Commissioners prohibiting them from in specting ground for new schemes of small holdings, and directing that no new schemes entailing settlement of land by Whitsunday, 1921, are to be considered; and, if so, on what grounds these instructions have been issued?

The policy of the Board is to concentrate on the completion of schemes in hand to the exclusion of new proposals which would occupy the time of the staff and which involve additional expenditure. Instructions in this sense have, I understand, been issued to the Small Holdings Commissioners. These, however, may be varied by the Director of Land Settlement at any time as occasion requires and permits.

As this is likely to delay the settlement of ex-soldiers on the land, does the right hon. Gentleman not think that some sort of a statement might be made as a guidance to these ex-soldiers, so that they may know whether they are likely to get the land for which they have applied?

I am well aware of the critical nature of the situation, and I may tell my hon. and gallant Friend that the whole subject is now under survey by a Cabinet Committee.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he can state the number of present applicants for small holdings in North Uist and South Uist, respectively; and what progress has been made in meeting these claims?

These applications in North Uist number 147 for new holdings and 223 for enlargements of existing holdings, and in South Uist 204 for new hold- ings and 257 for enlargements. The Board of Agriculture for Scotland are not at present proceeding with any scheme in North Uist, but at Askernish, in South Uist, 11 new holdings and 7 enlargements will, it is hoped, be settled at the closing term of Martinmas.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a large number of these applicants are ex-service men who have been waiting since the Armistice, expecting small holdings to be granted to them, and is he aware of the present discontent and of the possible results during the winter if the small holdings are not granted?

I am well aware that a number, if not most, of the applicants are ex-service men. The Government is most anxious to meet their demands. This is a subject which is being discussed by a Cabinet Committee now.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say that the applications in North Uist are not finally abandoned, and that they will come within the ambit of this inquiry?

I should be very sorry to say that they have been finally abandoned.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether there is any difficulty in obtaining the necessary wood, iron, and plumbing materials for the construction of the 16,000 houses in Scotland for which plans and tenders have been approved by the Scottish Board of Health?

I am advised that no difficulty is at present experienced in obtaining the necessary supplies of wood and iron required for the 16,000 houses referred to in the question. As regards plumbing material, the only existing scarcity is in respect of cast-iron rainwater conductors. This is being reduced by the use of galvanised steel.

asked the Secretary for Scotland the present amount of cement which can be obtained weekly for house construction in Scotland; and how many houses this weekly supply would enable to be constructed in a year?

I am advised that the present amount of cement obtainable weekly for house construction in Scotland varies from 300 to 400 tons. This amount is sufficient to enable approximately 2,300 houses to be constructed in a year.

May I ask whether it is adequate for the construction of the houses which have been authorised during the year?

I am not sure that I can give an accurate answer to a question like that, but I should like to see more cement.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the shortage of houses in Scotland, as compared with the number required to be erected, is 10,000, and that the amount of cement available meets but a very small portion of that demand; and is he also aware that, if cement were more plentiful, and cement blocks could be substituted for bricks or stone, houses could be erected in Scotland very much more quickly?

My hon. Friend is an authority on that subject, I know, and I shall be very happy to confer with him upon it. In the meantime, the whole matter is engaging the attention of the Minister of Health and myself.

Does not this show that it is not entirely shortage of labour which is preventing the erection of houses in Scotland?

I never said that that was the sole cause, but I think it is a very material cause.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, if the "Pussyfoot" movement be successful in Scotland, there will be a large number of houses vacant?

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether the Department of Building Materials Supply in Scotland is entirely under the control of the Scottish Board of Health and no other Government office?