asked the Secretary of State for India whether the 32,000 men proposed for the Indian Auxiliary Force were voluntarily recruited by the 31st March last; if not, what steps he proposes to take in the matter, and what was the maximum strength attained by the Indian Defence Force during the War under the Compulsory Service Act?

I have not yet received the figures up to the 31st March last, but have asked for them.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether any pre-War battalions of infantry have been disbanded in India, and, if so, which; and whether orders have lately been issued for the future disbandment of the 1st battalion of the 44th Merwara infantry or any other pre-War Indian regiment?

No pre-War battalions of infantry in India have yet been disbanded. Orders have been issued for the disbandment of the 44th Merwara infantry. So far, this is the only pre-War battalion of which I have received information that it is to be disbanded, but it is evident that if certain new units, such as Burmese, Kumaonis, etc., are to be retained, an equivalent number of old units must disappear. As I have already stated, the number of Indian infantry battalions which it is proposed to maintain after the War is the same as the number maintained before the War.

asked the Secretary of State for India how many applications have been received by the Government of India from officers in India for permission to retire on proportionate pensions, under the recommendation made in Clause 36 of the Report of the Joint Select Committee on the Government of India Bill; and what orders have been issued thereon?

Up to the 1st April last, one such application had been received by the Government of India. They informed the applicant that they could not support his request, as it was evident that his desire to retire was of long standing, and based mainly on reasons quite unconnected with those discussed by the Joint Select Committee.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he can now give an account of the reported rioting at Malegaon, and of the cause which led up to it?

A further report has just been received from the Government of Bombay. I will circulate this in the OFFICIAL REPORT, and communicate it to the Press.

"The Bombay Government report that a disturbance was threatened on 25th April owing to the prosecution of several Momins (Mohammedan weavers) for carrying arms at mass meetings, and their refusal to pay fines on conviction, and consequent imprisonment. The Mamlatdar, a resident magistrate, and the city sub-inspector of police (the latter with three or four armed constables) proceeded to the town. The mob attacked the city sub-inspector of police, whose men fired some rounds in the air. The mob did not disperse, and the police took refuge in the house of Mr. Pophale, a merchant, adjoining a temple. Failing to apprehend the sub-inspector of police, the mob brought fuel and kerosene and fired several houses and also the temple. The merchant and his family are said to have escaped, also one or two constables, but the sub-inspector of police, who attempted to escape in woman's garb, was caught, beaten to death, and thrown in the fire It is reported to be practically certain that one or two constables were also killed. The Mamlatdar and resident magistrate were stoned, but escaped. The mob then cut the telegraph wire, stopped the mail tongas from running, and drove the armed police out of the town. Several of these were beaten, and some are said to have been killed. The mob enforced a hartal and are reported to have looted shops of loyal persons. Prompt arrival of troops and police had a good effect, and order has now been restored, but the attitude of the town is reported to be sullen and obstinate. A force of 200 police is now in the town together with a detachment of troops."

asked the Secretrya of State for War whether he can give the House an approximate figure as to the amount which it is hoped to save in the cost of the Army List during the current year; whether he can state the number of advertisement contracts which have already been made for insertion in future issues; and what is the total sum it is calculated they will bring in?

It is estimated that a saving of approximately £3,900 will be effected in the cost of the Army List during the current year. No advertisement contracts have yet been made, but it is hoped that the form of contract will be finally approved very shortly. It is impossible at present to estimate what revenue will eventually be obtained from the advertisements.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that I suggested this in November last, and made it my business to see Messrs. W. H. Smith & Sons, the great advertising firm, and they said they thought it such an excellent medium that they would themselves advertise in it?

As the hon. Gentleman has made such an admirable appointment, I will see if the suggestion can be carried out.

asked the Secretary of State for War what opportunity will be afforded to the soldiers of the Territorial Army to wear their medals, in view of the decision that khaki is to be worn on ceremonial occasions, and medals will not in future be worn with khaki?

Soldiers of the Territorial Army may wear their medals when service dress uniform is worn as review order on ceremonial occasions. The same Regulation applies to soldiers of the Regular Army.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the officers now employed at the War Office who are retired on pension or half-pay are in receipt of that pension or half-pay in addition to the pay of their rank or office?

The retired officers who are employed at the War-Office as retired officer clerks retain their retired pay, in addition to the pay of their posts. There are no half-pay officers regularly employed at the War Office.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that recruits for Lancer and Hussar regiments enlist at the age of 18 and that the limit of height is 5 feet 8 inches; whether recruits grow after the age of 18 years; and, seeing that it is proposed to turn the 5th Royal Irish Lancers, the 19th and 20th Hussars, and the 21st Lancers into tank regiments, and in view of the fact that from the experience gained in the late War it has been found advisable to have small men in tanks owing to the fact that the taller men get injured when going over rough ground when in tanks, will he reconsider his decision of converting these cavalry regiments into tank regiments, and con- sider the question of each cavalry regiment having light tanks and the shorter men being trained to tank duties, and also consider the question of reducing the number of horses in these regiments according to requirements?

The limit of height for recruits of lancer and hussar regiments is as stated, but the age for enlistment is 18½ years. If the suggestion of maintaining the identity of the cavalry regiments to be disbanded by identifying them with Tank Corps units is carried out, only men who are suitable in every respect and who volunteer for service in the Tank Corps would be taken for the purpose. The experience gained during the recent War with regard to the suitability of certain types of personnel for duty with the Tank Corps has not been lost sight of by the War Office. I am afraid that the question of arming cavalry regiments with light tanks cannot be usefully considered until such a weapon is more fully developed than is the case at present.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether there is an Army Order in existence which disallows pay for lance rank for soldiers now mobilised; whether this inflicts a great hardship on lance-corporals and lance-sergeants who are deprived of pay according to their rank; and whether the War Office can see their way to grant this concession?

Under the terms of the Pay Warrant (Articles 973 and 974), the number of paid lance-corporals and paid lance-sergeants is limited by the establishments, and lance appointments in excess of the establishments are unpaid. No Army Order has been issued laying down special rules on the subject for soldiers of the Defence Force or Army Reservists recalled in the present emergency, and I regret that no exception to the general rule can be made in their case.

If officers who rejoin retain their rank and their Army pay is it not, in all fairness due to the noncommissioned officer, to let him retain his rank and pay on mobilisation?

It is clearly laid down in the Orders for mobilisation, that the men who held lance appointments previously when they go to the Reserve and are called up again they come in at the bottom of the list and they have to wait until there is a vacancy on the establishment.

Does the same rule apply to officers?

Officers who have left without pensions get only the ordinary pay of their rank.

Is it not a fact that no officer in the Defence Force receives the pay of his previous rank, but only the pay of his new rank?

I am not quite sure about that.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to a case of gross cruelty to captured chaffinches brought up before the Epsom magistrates; and whether he will again consider whether means can be adopted to make illegal the trapping of wild English singing birds, particularly in the neighbourhood of large cities where they add to the enjoyment of the people?

I have seen a newspaper report of the case. The offender was convicted, and fined for cruelty to the birds. It is already an offence to trap or snare any wild bird during the close season from 1st March to 1st August, but no doubt the law requires to be strengthened, and I shall be glad when time and opportunity permit Parliament to consider the recommendations of the Departmental Committee on the Protection of Wild Birds, which reported in 1919.

Is it not a fact that the same promise was made over a year ago?

Yes. I think, as a matter of fact, it would be a very good thing to carry out the suggestion.

Will you give facilities?

Yes.

Is there any more cruelty in trapping birds than in trapping rats and rabbits? [HON. MEMBERS: "Yes!"

Is it not a fact that this man was fined only forty shillings, and will the right hon. Gentleman communicate with the magistrates concerned and suggest that the fine was not sufficient?

That does not arise out of the question.

asked the Home Secretary whether it has come to his notice that in the case of a woman tried for soliciting before Mr. Lawrie, at the County of London Sessions on 12th January, a list of previous convictions, including one for felony, was brought forward by the police, which was denied by the prisoner; whether he is aware that, in reply to a question by Mr. Lawrie, the police declared that they had verified the convictions by the finger-prints of the accused, and that it has been subsequently discovered that the convictions were those of another woman of the same surname as the accused's maiden name; if this is so, whether any steps have been taken against the police officer giving false evidence; and whether the sentence of 15 months' imprisonment given as a result of this evidence has been revised?

A mistake in identification was made such as the hon. Member mentions. The identification had not been verified by finger-prints, and as soon as the mistake was discovered, the matter was brought to the notice of the Chairman of Quarter Sessions. On his recommendation, the sentence was reduced from fifteen to three months. Steps are being taken at the Criminal Record Office to prevent the repetition of such a mistake.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that many persons holding industrial insurance policies are, owing to unemployment, unable to continue the stipu- lated payments; and what steps the Government propose to take in order to prevent such policies from being forfeited in such cases?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to a question on this subject on Thursday last.

asked the Home Secretary what action is taken by the police against individuals who circulate or promote the distribution of leaflets of a character which justifies the police in seizing and destroying them?

Persons who are found distributing leaflets of a seditious character are detained for enquiries, and if the circumstances justify such action, proceedings are taken against them.

asked the Home Secretary whether the Metropolitan Police have issued any rule of the road, and, if so, where it can be seen; and whether they have issued any rule of the footpath, and what it is and where it can be seen?

The Commissioner has not issued any such rules, and has no power to do so.

Are there any such rules in existence?

There are customary rules with regard to pedestrians, and statutory rules with regard to vehicular traffic.

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he intends to proceed with the eviction of Mr. and Miss McWilliam from their farm of Hardthorn, in the Stewartry; if he is aware that these old people were both born on the farm and feel the injury acutely; that they asked to be allowed to retain the dwelling-house and 70 or 80 acres of land out of 300 acres but were refused by the Scottish Board of Agricul- ture; and that Sir Matthew Wallace, another tenant on the estate of Terregles, is being allowed to remain in the dwelling-house of Terregles-town, although he has not resided there all his life; and whether he will have the whole matter reconsidered?

My hon. and gallant Friend will recognise that unless the progress of land settlement of ex-service men is to be seriously retarded, there must be considerable displacement of existing tenants on properties acquired for this purpose. The Board always give sympathetic consideration to the claims of sitting tenants, but it is necessary in this case that they should remove. The farm is suitable for settlement, and there are a number of ex-service applicants for it. Sir Matthew Wallace's case is not analogous. The buildings on his farm are not suitable for small holdings. The Board consider that it would be advantageous to dispose of them, and to set free the sum realised for settlements elsewhere.

Was there no other property that could have been taken for the settlement of ex-soldiers, without turning this old couple out, of their ancestral home in this way?

No, I think there was no other property. We are carrying out the scheme laid down for settlement. These two old people, with whom I have every sympathy, were offered a part of the building and 30 or 40 acres, but they refused the offer.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is exactly the same sort of thing that has been criticised when carried out in Russia?

asked the Postmaster-General whether the Post Office have granted licences to the British railway companies authorising them to employ wireless telegraph as an auxiliary means of communication for railway purposes; whether the chain of stations which has been constructed on the Midland and London and North Western Railways will be used solely for the regulation of traffic; or whether messages will be transmitted over the system which would normally be conveyed by the State telegraph service?

Permission has been given to the Midland Railway Company to establish wireless communication between certain points on their system, and to the Marconi Company to conduct tests of such communications between certain points on the London and North-Western Railway system. An application from the Marconi Company to carry out a more extended trial is at present under consideration. All such permits are of a temporary character, and can be withdrawn at any time should circumstances render this course desirable. The stations are to be used solely for the purposes of the railway companies and not for the transmission of messages which would normally be conveyed by the State telegraph or telephone service.

asked the Postmaster-General the course he proposes to take with regard to those telephone subscribers who entered into a contract for one year with the Post Office before the recent increase and who have paid the fees for one year in advance?

Each agreement is being terminated by due notice at the earliest date possible under its provisions, and as stated in reply to the hon. Member for Kensington South, on 15th March, credit is given for any unexpired portion of rental paid in advance.

If the contract be broken the money is returned?

As I have stated, if the contract is broken in its terms, then any unexpired portion of the money is returned.

asked the Postmaster-General whether a recent promotion to a vacant overseership at Derby resulted in the claims of many men with first-class qualifications being overlooked; whether a vacancy for a further overseership exists; and whether, in these circumstances, he will personally see that his promise to the hon. Member for Leeds that no junior will be promoted over equally competent senior men is applied in the selection of a candidate for the vacant position?

The claims and qualifications of all men at Derby were fully considered before the promotion in question was made. I can assure the hon. Member that in filling the further vacancy a junior officer will not be selected in preference to an equally well qualified senior.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that 1 per cent. of the sub-office assistants employed upon Post Office work are in receipt of 5s. a week or less, 35 per cent. are in receipt of 20s. a week or less, and 91·5 per cent. are in receipt of 40s. or less; and whether, seeing that all these amounts are supposed to contain a bonus to meet the increased cost of living, he will cause inquiry to be made as to the adequacy of the remuneration which is being paid?

Particulars of the rates of pay of assistants employed by sub-postmasters on Post Office duties are furnished by their employers to their head postmasters, but considerable inquiry would be necessary to verify the figures given by the hon. Member. It is the duty of the local postmaster to see periodically that the wages and conditions of service of these assistants do not fall below the standard for shop assistants in the service of good employers in the same district, and I do not think that any general inquiry is called for, but I will look into any individual case which may be brought to my notice.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether the payment of training bonuses to tuberculosis ex-service men is to be taken to mean that it has been the practice to pay such bonuses in the case of such men who have undergone a course of concurrent treatment and training arranged by the local insurance committee; and, if not, why such bonuses are not pay- able, having regard to the fact that men who have satisfactorily completed a course of concurrent treatment and training at institutions provided by the Ministry of Pensions for cases other than tuberculosis do receive such bonuses?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave him on the 28th April. In any case where a course of vocational training is completed under the conditions stated in that reply the bonus is paid.

asked the Minister of Pensions how many non-commissioned officers or men have actually sat as members of the appeal tribunals during the last three months; if so, on what tribunals; how often on each tribunal; and what is the total number of tribunals sitting during the last three months?

Every tribunal for non-commissioned officers and men must have a non-commissioned officer or man sitting as its Service member. The tribunals sit every day, morning and afternoon, except Saturdays and Sundays. On Saturdays appellants too ill or infirm to travel are visited at their homes or at hospitals or elsewhere. Twelve non-commissioned officers or men have sat as members of Pensions Appeal Tribunals since 28th February. From 4th January to 28th February, 10 tribunals were sitting. From 28th February to 7th May, 12 were sitting. The number sitting to-day is 13. Additional tribunals will commence to sit on the 17th instant.

Am I to understand that there are no appeal tribunals dealing with the cases of non-commissioned officers on which there are representatives of the non-commissioned officers or men?

If the hon. Member will kindly put down another question I will have inquiries made.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in the event of an officer's widow entitled to pension marrying again and her second husband dying, she would revert to her original claim and be entitled to pension; and, if so, are the same privileges granted to the widow of a non-commissioned officer or man?

In the circumstances stated in the first part of the question, the pension would be restored if the financial position of the widow were such as to justify restoration. This privilege is not given to the widows of non-commissioned officers and men, but they have the compensating privilege of a gratuity on re-marriage, which is not given to the widows of commissioned officers.

Would it not be much better if the widow of a non-commissioned officer or man had the same claim as the widow of a commissioned officer in this respect?

This matter was very carefully considered by a Select Committee, and they were unanimously of the opinion that this is the best way. So far as my experience goes, and it has been of a somewhat lengthy nature, there has been no complaint.

What is the reason for the distinction between officers and men in this matter?

I do not think there is really very much difference.

Could a non-commissioned officer's widow be allowed a choice of a gratuity, or in the event of her second husband dying, to revert to the pension again?

I do not think that would be possible. Even in the case of officers, the pension is not restored to the widow, if the second husband dies, unless there are some special circumstances which justify it.

Have the associations of non-commissioned officers and men in any way been asked to express an opinion?

I think all these associations were heard in evidence. If my recollection be right, the Select Committee came unanimously to the conclusion that this was the proper way to deal with the matter.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if all the representative members (employers' side) of district wages boards in England have been nominated by the National Farmers' Union; and, if not, how many other employers' organisations have representation?

By the statutory Regulations governing the constitution of district wages committees, the representative members are appointed by the wages board from among persons nominated by employers' and workers' organisations respectively. I understand that the wages board accepted nominations of employers' representatives only from the National Farmers' Union.

Why were other independent employers' associations not invited?

That is a question which I cannot answer. I have no control whatever over the action of the Wages Board in this matter.

What Minister will answer for the Wages Board? Is it an entirely independent body?

I am quite prepared to make replies, but, as I say, I have no power over the Wages Board acting in accordance with Statutory Regulations.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say on what Vote the expenses of the Wages Board are taken in the House?

They are taken on the Ministry of Agriculture Vote.

Then is the right hon. Gentleman not responsible?

Technically, of course, I am responsible, but I am not permitted by the Statutory Regulations to interfere in appointments made by the Wages Board. The only way would be to alter the Regulations.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider altering the Regulations, so that the other employers may get some representation somewhere?

Who is really responsible?

I have just said I am.

Is there any agreement between the Secretary of the National Farmers' Union and the Secretary of the Wages Board?

asked the hon. Member for the Pollok Division of Glasgow, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, in what respect the enclosure of portions of Hyde Park and Regent's Park for public tennis courts would differ from the enclosure of certain portions of the same area for the Royal Zoological Society, the Botanical Gardens, and Rotten Row; whether in many public parks tennis courts are now in existence, and are much appreciated by the public; and whether the First Commissioner of Works can reconsider the decision not to permit public tennis courts to be instituted in view of the certain revenue to be expected from such courts and the very small area involved?

asked the hon. Member for the Pollok Division of Glasgow, as representing the First Commissioner of Works whether, seeing that a section of Regent's Park contains a series of lawn-tennis courts for playing upon which a high subscription, together with court fees, is obtained, he can see his way to allowing members of the general public to take part in the same popular form of recreation upon a similar series of courts in one of the central parks of London?

My attention has been drawn to enclosures such as the Zoological and Botanic Gardens, which were respectively established 95 and 82 years ago. They occupy 52 acres, which, except for three acres, have never been open to the public Their existence does not justify fencing off more ground to which the public has access, however lucrative such a course might be. The general policy of the Office of Works is to remove rather than increase enclosures. For instance, it has just been decided to throw open eight acres of land in Regent's Park from which the public has hitherto been excluded. The creation of new enclosures would seriously impair the efforts of the Department to remove or curtail those which already exist.

Has the right hon. Gentleman referred to Rotten Row in the course of his answer? Do not the arguments he has applied to the enclosure of all such areas apply equally to Rotten Row?

I am aware that Rotten Row exists, and has existed for a great number of years. It affords considerable pleasure to large numbers of people, and if it were to be removed, the cost of replacing the grass would be out of all proportion to any advantage that might possibly be gained.

Do the arguments which the right hon. Gentleman uses for the keeping open of Rotten Row not apply equally to tennis courts, which would certainly provide revenue and also afford enjoyment to many people?

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of providing a special concentration camp for scorching motorists?

I do not think the argument holds good that tennis courts are in the same position as Rotten Row. After all, the tennis courts are limited to a comparatively small number of people.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware it is not necessary to enclose these courts at all?

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will advocate more frequent meetings of the Council of the League of Nations; and whether that Council is to meet forthwith to deal with the Report on the Aaland Islands, the Polish-Lithuanian dispute, and the recommendations of the Brussels International Financial Conference?

I see no reason for recommending more frequent meetings of the Council of the League of Nations, which has already held 12 meetings since the ratification of the Peace Treaty. The agenda for the next meeting, which will probably be held early next month, has not yet been received, but I think it likely that it will include all three subjects mentioned by the hon. Member.

asked the Lord President of the Council if the newly-appointed members of the Permanent Mandate Commission are to receive a salary; and, if so, from what source?

The members of the Commission will receive no salary, but it is provided in the Constitution of the Commission, which was approved by the Council of the League on the 20th November last, that they shall receive, out of the League funds, an allowance of 100 gold francs a day each during their meetings, in addition to travelling expenses.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that many young women left their pre-War employment to act in various capacities, such as members of the Volunteer Aid Detachment, and after discharge have been prevented owing to depression in trade from qualifying for unemployment benefit under the provisions of the Act; whether he is aware that ex-service men who have, with the assistance of the civil liabilities committee, started in business and owing to depression in trade have been compelled to abandon their business have also been unable to qualify; that men who have been in receipt of workmen's compensation for a considerable time and are now physically fit are similarly situated; and whether he will take steps to remove these injustices by amending the Act?

General service members of the Voluntary Aid Detachment are eligible for unemployment benefit on the recommendation of the local employment committee under the same conditions as ex-service men and women generally. In the other cases mentioned, benefit would not in general be payable. The Unemployment Insurance Act, 1921, already makes material provision for persons who have not paid contributions. I cannot agree that the relief of every case in which a man or a woman is unable to obtain employment, but has not paid contributions, ought properly to be made a charge on the Unemployment Fund, four-fifths of which is derived from the contributions of employers and employed persons in the insured trades.

Will the right hon. Gentleman deal with that part of the question which has reference to the case of soldiers who have started in business, but, owing to trade depression, have been obliged to abandon business? Will he make provision for such men?

I think the last part of my answer really covers that case, assuming, as I understand it, that what is underlying my hon. Friend's supplementary question is that every person who finds himself in difficulties owing to trade depression should have a claim on the fund. We cannot accept that position, because the fund is a contributory fund.

May I ask whether there is any distinction as between an ex-service man who started in business, but, owing to depression, has been compelled to cancel his business, and a man who is entitled to workmen's compensation and other benefits in other ways? Cannot we make allowance for a man who, having been assisted by the Civil Liabilities Committee to start business, has failed through trade depression, and cannot qualify for unemployment benefit?

As I have said, it is a contributory fund and the conditions under which subscriptions are made to the fund and benefits are payable by the fund are laid down by Act of Parliament. Already under the 1921 Act the ex-service men have a very great advantage under the fund, in that they do not have to qualify by 20 weeks' or even by 10 weeks' contributions as an ordinary civilian has to do.

asked the Minister of Health, if there is any subsidy for houses about to be built for aged miners; if so, what for, say, a living room and a bed room, or a living room and two bed rooms; has this subsidy to be paid back; and is interest to be paid on the subsidy?

Under the present Regulations, a grant of £230 is paid in respect of a house of approved construction containing a living room and two bed rooms, and comprising not less than 700 feet superficial area. The person receiving the grant is not required to repay it, and no interest is payable upon it.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can issue this year estimates of the number of persons paying Income and Super-tax, and the various rates paid, bringing up to date the information given in Command Paper 224, of May, 1919?

The Estimates contained in the Command Paper in question, which were specially prepared, are now being revised, and it is hoped to include a revised statement in the forthcoming report of the Board of Inland Revenue. Owing to changes in the Income Tax system, the preparation of similar statistics for the year 1920–21 and the current year presents great difficulties, and I am unable at the moment to make a definite statement as to the publication of a similar Return for those years.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been drawn to the statement made at the annual meeting of the shareholders of Messrs. Lever Brothers to the effect that the firm and its associated companies ought never to have come within the scope of the Excess Profits Duty, as no excess profits have been made by them; whether he is aware that the profiteering sub-committee on the soap industry reported that it was clear that a large part of the high prices paid for soap during the War went in payment of Excess Profits Duty, and that the tax was paid directly by the soap consumer and not by the soap share- holders as such; and whether, in the event of Lever Brothers making a claim for return of any duty paid, these facts will be borne in mind and the claim carefully scrutinised?

My attention has been drawn to the statement and report referred to by the hon. Member. As he is no doubt aware, the Commissioners of Inland Revenue are precluded by Statute from disclosing information relating to the taxation of particular taxpayers; but he may rest assured that those Commissioners carefully examine all claims to repayment of Excess Profits Duty and restrict the repayment to such sums as the taxpayer proves to be due to him under the provisions of the law.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will give particulars of the loans due to this country from the Colonies and the Allies, the rates of interest, the due dates, and the currency in which the loans are repayable?

The amounts of the loans are set out in Table V of the Financial Statement of 25th April, 1921. The rates of interest and the due dates vary and are determined by the agreements under which the loans were made. With the exception of a small portion of a loan to Canada, which is repayable in Canadian dollars, the loans are all repayable in sterling.

I understood my hon. Friend to say that the rates of interest and the due dates were made under agreements. Can we have particulars of those?

They are very detailed and numerous. Perhaps, if there be any particular loan to which my hon. Friend refers, he will let me know, and I shall be glad to give him the details of that one.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state the amount of loans due by this country to the United States of America, the due dates, and rates of interest, stating how much is due to the American Government and how much to the American public, and in what currency the loans are repayable?

If my hon. Friend will move for a return of the External Debt as at 31st March, 1921, corresponding to the Return (H.C. 144 of 1920) moved for last year by the hon. and gallant Member for Kingston-upon-Hull, I will have figures issued as soon as possible giving the information asked for, together with similar information regarding the remainder of the External Debt.

Is it proposed to proceed now to finality with the return of the bonds and securities borrowed during the War from the British public for the purpose of using them as security with the American public and the American Government?

I think I must ask for notice of that question, which does not arise out of the one on the Paper.

May I ask if the hon. Gentleman understood my question as being this, that—

I think the hon. Member's question had better appear on the Paper.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the amount received from the duty on mechanical lighters from the 1st January to the 31st March, 1921; and can he say what proportion would be derived from home manufacture as distinct from imported?

The approximate net revenue received from the duty on mechanical lighters from 1st January to the 31st March, 1921, was as follows:—

asked the Prime Minister whether Captain Hardy, at one time acting as liaison officer between Dublin Castle and the special intelligence office, Scotland Yard, is employed on Government service of any kind; and, if so, where and in what capacity?

The answer is in the negative.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether his attention has been called to the following cases in which county court judges have awarded damages against Crown forces, and what redress is available for the parties injured: awarded by Judge Bodkin: Miss Brown, of Kilmihill, hair cut off, 26th January, 1921, £400; Mrs. Annie. Hanley, Limerick, house burnt, ankle broken, 22nd September, 1920, £400; awarded by Judge Doyle: Martin Flanagan, shop looted, £185; Mrs. McDonagh, of Cappagh Barna, money looted, £57 10s.; awarded by Judge Hynes: Michael Crowley, of Mohona, Dunmanway, wounded, £500; John O'Brien, of Ballyneen, shot and house burnt, £490; Robert Hales, senior, Knocknacurra, house burnt, £1,405; awarded by Judge Cusack: William O'Connor, of Castle-island, shop destroyed, £2,000; awarded by Judge Pigot: Mr. Brosnan, of Abbeyfeale, injuries to child, £2,000; awarded by Judge Moore: Thomas Kearney, Mrs. Farrell, and John O'Brien, of Ballyporeen, property destroyed, £14,300, £13,300, and £360, respectively?

The periodical returns from the Clerks of the Crown and Peace received to date only include a few of these cases. The awards are not against the Crown Forces as the hon. and gallant Member suggests; but against the local authorities and the redress of holders of decrees lies against those authorities. As stated in the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for Central Hull on the 9th March last, the general question of relieving cases of hardship where the local authorities refuse payment is having the Chief Secretary's consideration.

Is the Government not prepared to make any compensation to people who, after the judicial inquiry, have been shown to have suffered such considerable loss at the hands of the Crown agents?

No, Sir; that is not so. They have their claim and decree against the county councils who refuse to pay.

Yes, but is it not the fact that these allegations have been made against the Crown forces, and have been proved in court at which the Crown forces were invited to attend and defend themselves?

The only jurisdiction of the county court judge is to consider as to claims against the county. He has no jurisdiction to consider cases against the Crown forces, and he has made no decree.

But is it not the fact that these cases were decided before the Government suppressed the County Courts in these matters? Is it not the fact that these cases were decided against the Crown forces, and what are the Government going to do in the matter of compensation?

No; I have already said that they have made no decision against the Crown forces. The Crown forces were not parties to the inquiry, and any attempt to bring them in would be a usurpation of jurisdiction.

Putting aside legal quibbles, and having regard to the fact that these things were committed by the Crown forces—

They were not.

Is not my hon. and gallant Friend justified in asking that the compensation should be shouldered by the Crown?

The basis of the question of my hon. and gallant Friend is that I admit that these things were committed by the forces of the Crown, which I utterly repudiate.

Who did them, then?

asked the Chief Secretary what were the injuries sustained by Head-constable Downes at Roscarberry on the 1st February last for which he was awarded £1,000 compensation out of the rates?

Head-constable Downes received no injuries on 2nd February, 1921, at Burgatia ambush; but he is suffering from shock and loss of memory since.

Would a working man who met with an accident that prevented him from following his employment be given similar compensation?

That is a matter for the County Court judge who awarded this sum, after public inquiry.

asked the Chief Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Mrs. Isabella Clarke, of Roscommon, who was awarded £891 damages at Roscommon Sessions for ladies' clothing taken from her shop on the night of 15th October; whether Mrs. Clarke, who slept in an adjoining house, was awakened by a noise about midnight, and, looking out, saw soldiers moving about inside her premises; and whether any military inquiry has been held with a view to identifying the robbers?

The charges made by this lady have been the subject of a careful military inquiry, and no evidence has been forthcoming in support of her allegation that members of the military forces were implicated in the theft. The police sergeant who also investigated the case has since been murdered, and no police evidence could therefore be given at the hearing of her claim at the Quarter Sessions.

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that a boy named Michael Considine, aged 12 years, was shot by military or police on 23rd December at Cooraclare, County Clare, and severely wounded; that his father wrote to District-Inspector May claiming compensation, and received the reply that the shooting was accidental; that this case was brought before County Court Judge Bodkin at his recent examination into compensation claims, but compensation could not be awarded, owing to the injunction of the Commander of the Forces; and whether he proposes to allow this claim for an admitted injury to be proceeded with?

This place is in the martial-law area, and I have therefore asked the Commander-in-Chief to furnish me with a report. Perhaps the hon. Member will kindly repeat the question on Thursday.

Why do you not shoot the whole nation?

asked the Chief Secretary how many claims for compensation have been granted in County Clare for crimes committed, in the opinion of the judge, by members of the Crown Forces; what is the nature of the crime in each of these cases; what is the total sum awarded; and how many punishments have as yet been inflicted in respect of these crimes?

I would refer the hon. Member to the replies given by my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary to a question on this subject on the 17th February last, and to my replies to similar questions on the 20th ultimo.

Why do you not use a gramophone, instead of bringing up these damned things day by day?

The same old answers!

asked the Chief Secretary if his attention has been drawn to the statement that auxiliary forces of the Crown used dum-dum bullets in the recent affray at Castleconnell; whether he is aware that the only basis for this statement was a spent revolver cartridge, empty of all powder, with a reversed bullet pushed into it, which was picked up after firing; and will he say whether any live ammunition of this nature was found at all?

Yes, Sir. My attention has been drawn to the allegation referred to in the first part of the hon. and gallant Member's question. As regards the remaining parts, I am glad to have this opportunity of repudiating the shocking suggestion that dum-dum ammunition is being or has been used by forces of the Crown in Ireland. No such ammunition has ever been issued to the Crown forces in that country, nor has any evidence at any time been forthcoming that such ammunition has in fact been used.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this allegation was made by an eminent surgeon in this country, and that his evidence was prevented from being laid before the court of inquiry?

No, Sir, it was not prevented. I am also aware of the allegation that was made, and also aware that persons who have seen the alleged dum-dum bullet say it was a bullet turned upside down.

asked the Chief Secretary why no statement was invited from Mr. Cripps in the Castleconnell inquiry?

I am in communication with the Commander-in-Chief with reference to this matter. Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will kindly repeat the question on Thursday.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the Lord Chancellor stated that his evidence would not be taken?

Yes, Sir, and I have stated in answer to my hon. and gallant Friend that I am in communication with the Commander-in-Chief on the subject.

asked the Chief Secretary whether the present Lord Mayor of Limerick has been arrested; if so, on what charge; whether he is to be brought to trial; and where he now is?

As this place is in the martial-law area, I have consulted the Commander-in-Chief, by whom I am informed that the answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The mayor summoned a meeting without having previously obtained the permission of the military governor. He was invited to discuss the matter with the governor, but refused to do so. He was therefore arrested, tried by summary court, convicted and fined £10 as the alternative of a week's imprisonment.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that two Lord Mayors of Limerick have been murdered, and is it not about time that the Lord Mayors were left alone?

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that Patrick Molloy, of Kilroe, near Headford, was taken from his house on the night of 30th April, and afterwards found dead; whether his brother had previously been on the run; and whether the perpetrators of this outrage have yet been traced?

The court of inquiry in lieu of inquest found that this man was wilfully murdered by unknown men on the 30th ultimo. No clue has yet been obtained by the police as to the perpetrators of this murder. I have no information as to whether his brother had previously been on the run.

asked the Prime Minister whether a decision has yet been arrived at with regard to the setting up of an Estimates Committee; and whether the Select Committee on National Expenditure is to be appointed this year?

Yes, Sir, the Government has decided to adopt the recommendations made by the informal Committee which I invited to assist me in considering this subject, for whose counsel and advice I should like to say I am very much obliged. As the recommendations are of considerable length, I think that the most convenient course would be to circulate a memorandum of them in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

The following is the memorandum:

asked the Prime Minister what are the particular duties upon which the Minister Without Portfolio (Dr. Addison) is engaged at this moment; and when the House will have an opportunity of discussing this matter?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on the 6th April in answer to a similar question by the hon. and gallant Member for Rotherham (Major Kelley). The Minister without Portfolio is the Chairman of several important Cabinet Committees, and a member of others. The House will have an opportunity of discussing the matter when the Estimate for the Cabinet offices is taken.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when that Estimate is likely to be taken, as we have been waiting a long time for it?

In relation to the discussion of this Estimate, as of all Estimates, I shall try to meet the convenience of the House.

Are we allowed to put questions to the Minister without Portfolio with regard to his work? [An HON. MEMBER: "If so, what on?"]

If it is a question which it would be proper for my right hon. Friend to answer, he would no doubt answer it, but it is not usual to question Ministers as to Cabinet deliberations or the deliberations of Cabinet Committees, and if the practice were sought to be introduced, I should deprecate any Minister replying.

Are we to understand that the activities of the Minister without Portfolio are entirely confined to Cabinet work and the work of Cabinet Committees?

Yes; he has no departmental duties.

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that the Minister without Portfolio will not be given another Portfolio?

No, I certainly will not.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether, in addition to members of the trade and temperance organisations, it is proposed to appoint representatives of the consumer to take part in the conference on liquor control and licensing legislation which is shortly to be convened; and, if so, will he take steps to secure that some of these representatives are qualified to represent the views of those members of the public who belong to clubs?

I have nothing to add at present to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to similar questions on the 5th of May.

May I ask why the consumer, the person who is going to have his liberty restricted, is not to be represented on this Committee, whereas the brewers and the temperance party, who each have axes to grind, are to be exclusively represented?

I know no ground for the assumption which underlies my hon. and gallant Friend's question that nobody is to be represented except interests on one side or the, other. There is nothing in any statement of the Prime Minister to convey that impression.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it was stated most specifically in answers from that Bench that the licensed trade and the temperance organisations were to form this Committee?

No, Sir.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will issue a Return bringing the statement of currency expansion (Cmd. 434, 1919) up to date so as to include Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, Chile, Argentine Republic, and Mexico?

I have been asked to reply. A fresh issue of the Return mentioned in the question is in course of preparation. I will inquire to what extent it may be found practicable to include particulars for the countries referred to by my hon. Friend.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that on certain relief works in Middlesbrough the corporation are paying the men 1s. 5d. per hour, the district rate for labourers being 1s. 9d.; that in making grants from the Unemployment Grants Committee there is no condition that the district rate of wages shall be paid; that a number of men have refused employment on the Middlesbrough scheme because wages offered are below the district rate; that these men have been disqualified for unemployment benefit; and whether he will make representations as to the advisability of no grant being made except on the condition that the district rate of wages is paid or, failing this, give instructions that men who refuse employment in such circumstances shall not be disqualified for unemployment benefit?

As explained in the reply given to my hon. Friend on 28th April by the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, the regulation of the wages paid on relief works is in the hands of the local authorities. The rights of unemployed workmen to unemployment benefit are governed by the provisions of the Unemployment Insurance Acts, 1920 and 1921, and I have no power to give instructions which are not in accordance with those provisions. I am making inquiry with regard to the claims made by the men to whom my hon. Friend refers and will let him know the result.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Alexander III. Don Cadet College originally situated in Novocherersk, and which has now been removed to Ismailia, has been recognised by General Congreve as a military unit; what is his official relation to the college; and under what Government do the cadets serve?

I have no information on this subject beyond what has appeared in the daily Press. I will make inquiries, the result of which will be communicated to the hon. Member in a few days.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether a general manager for the proposed British Empire Exhibition has been appointed; if so, will he state the date of his appointment, the remuneration paid, and the functions he performs; and whether the appropriation approved by Parliament was conditional on a certain amount being raised by those interested?

The Executive Council of the British Empire Exhibition have appointed a general manager, as from the 1st January, 1920, with salary at the rate of £3,000 per annum, and an allowance for entertainment and the upkeep of a motor car at the rate of £2,000 per annum. His duties as set out in the articles of association of the exhibition are the full direction of all matters appertaining to the exhibition, and the organising, management, designing, laying out, and constructing of it. He is subject to the control of the executive council, of which Lord Morris is chairman. The only liability on public funds in connection with the exhibition is a participation in the guarantee fund to the extent of £100,000 subject to conditions to be approved by the Treasury. This participation in the guarantee has been approved by Parliament.

Can the Minister in charge say what other experience this man has had in running exhibitions, other than that obtained while he was Controller of the Stationery Office?

Yes, Sir, I can inform the hon. Member that he has had an unrivalled experience in all the international exhibitions in which we took part before the War.

Have the guaranteed sums, on which the Government's guarantee of £100,000 is contingent, been found satisfactory?

I do not think that arises, but the Government guarantee will not arise unless the other sums guaranteed be forthcoming. I understand there is no doubt they will be forthcoming.

But I understood the hon. and gallant Gentleman to say just now that the Government guarantee is contingent upon the satisfactory guarantees from other quarters?

I am not sure what the total amount is, but unless these guarantees are forthcoming—and as I say there is every reason to believe they will be—the Government guarantee will not be operative.

Has not the Board of Trade appointed this individual, and are they not guaranteeing his salary?

No, Sir; the position at present is a simple one, and is exactly as I have said. If the total sum be guaranteed from other sources, then the guarantee, of which this House approved, will be forthcoming from the Government.