asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what progress has been made with the building of the capital ships laid down or to be laid down this year; when it is anticipated that these ships will be completed; and whether the total cost of each ship has been calculated?

The detailed designs for the new capital ships are not yet sufficiently far advanced for tenders to be invited. It is anticipated the construction of the ships will take approximately three years from the date of the contract being signed. An estimate of the probable total cost of each ship has been made, but it is not desirable that this information should be published until tenders have been accepted.

May I assume that no steps have been taken yet with regard to the laying down, building and collecting material for these ships?

A very small preliminary expense has been incurred, but nothing material affecting the complete freedom of this House to decide on the question when the Estimates come before it.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether the names for the new capital ships have yet been decided upon?

The answer is in the negative.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether Members of Parliament will be allowed to have access to all official documents relating to the War to which Sir Julian Corbett is allowed access; whether any expense is incurred by the publication of Sir Julian Corbett's History of the War; and upon what Vote is it borne?

Individual Members of Parliament have no more privileges in this connection than the public generally. The expenses of the Official Histories of the War fall upon Civil Service Votes.

Can the hon. Gentleman say exactly what official document Sir Julian Corbett has access to which the public have not?

I think I should have notice of that question.

asked the Minister of Labour how many ex-service men have now applied under the Government scheme for employment in the building trades; and how many are now employed?

More than 15,000 ex-service men have so far applied to join the scheme. At the present moment only 15 cases have been reported to me where men have been signed on under the contract for which the scheme provides. The scheme was, as my Noble Friend knows, launched on 18th April, when, to the very general and very grave trade depression from which we are suffering, had been added the stoppage of the mining industry. These things, I admit, at once very seriously hamper the building employers in the execution of the undertaking they have entered into with us. I am fully assured that there is no lack of anxiety on their part to help the scheme along, and I sincerely hope that improvement in the industrial situation may give them early opportunity so to do.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the progress that has been made?

Oh! no, certainly not. But the reasons are beyond our control. Everything is at a standstill. All we can hope for is for better times, and as soon as they come, we can go ahead.

asked the Minister of Labour the amount of unemployment in the agricultural districts of England and Wales and how it compares with the total for this time last year?

I am afraid I cannot give separate statistics of all persons unemployed in agricultural districts as distinct from urban districts, but there were 2,764 shepherds, horsemen, cattlemen and labourers registered as unemployed at Employment Exchanges in England and Wales at 6th May, as com- pared with 2,792 a year ago. In addition there were 294 women and 228 juveniles in these occupations registered at 6th May, as compared with 67 women and 88 juveniles registered a year ago.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how many agricultural labourers are unemployed in England and Wales?

I will try and get the figures if my hon. Friend will put the question down.

Make the landowners liable to work.

asked the Minister of Labour the result of his inquiries into the position of the Scottish herring industry; and whether he is taking any steps to deal with unemployment in that industry?

My inquiries indicate, I regret to say, that the prospects of employment in the near future are unfavourable. I doubt whether there are any special steps which the Government can take to assist the industry, but I am in communication with my right hon. Friends the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Secretary for Scotland in the matter.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the unemployment and prospects of unemployment in this industry are probably the result of the Government policy towards Russia and particularly of the passing of the German Reparation Bill which has stopped all trade with Germany?

Is it the fact that the Ministry are putting great difficulties in the way of workers in the herring fishing industry—both men and women—obtaining the unemployment benefit, and will he instruct the local centres to deal more promptly with those who apply?

In reply to the first question, that is really a matter for argument which I cannot answer in the time at my disposal. In reply to the hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty, I have to say that the Unemployment Insurance benefit is administered under the Act, and if he knows of any case in which he thinks justice has not been done I shall be very happy to look into it if he will send particulars to me.

Will the right hon. Gentleman argue this matter with his colleagues in the Cabinet?

Are the local exchanges not refusing the benefit on the ground that these people are seasonal workers and that there is no such work for them at this time of the year?

Their case is governed by the terms of the Act. If the hon. Member sends me any case of hardship, I shall be glad, as I have said, to look into it.

asked the Minister of Labour if his attention has been drawn to the lock-out of road-stone quarrymen in the West of Scotland; and if any action has been taken by his Department in this matter?

The attention of the Ministry of Labour has been drawn to this dispute, and the parties were invited to attend a conference under the auspices of the Department on the 22nd April. The owners, however, were of opinion that no good purpose could be served by this course, as they had already held several meetings with the workpeople's representatives, and, having regard to the fall in selling prices, they could not hold out better terms than those which had already been offered, namely, a limitation in the reduction of rates of wages to 10 per cent. for a fixed period of six months. The Department has suggested to the parties than they should refer the dispute to arbitration, but so far neither party has agreed to this suggestion.

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, following on the assassination of Sergeant Rew, Royal Scots Regiment, at Ennis, the Clare Hotel, the Old Ground Hotel, the house of Mr. Patrick Considine, and the grocery shop of Mr. T. V. Honan, chairman of the Ennis Urban Council, were destroyed by order of the military governor; on what ground these premises were selected for destruction; whether the owners were given an opportunity of rebutting any alleged evidence against them; whether he is aware that Mr. Honan was ill in bed in hospital at the time of the murder of Sergeant Rew and had been there in bed for three weeks previously; that he is a widower with six small children, the eldest being 13 years old, and that these children are now homeless; and whether he will state what evidence there was against Mr. Honan or his children to justify this destruction of his means of livelihood?

The murder of Sergeant Rew and the subsequent events took place in a martial-law area, and I am informed by the Commander-in-Chief that the premises of Mr. Honan and of Mr. Considine were selected for destruction as the owners were known to be among the chief organisers of rebel activities in Ennis. It was known at the time that Mr. Honan was in hospital and that he is a widower with several children. As regards the question of evidence, this is a matter which must be left to the judgment of the responsible officer on the spot.

Does the right hon. Gentleman state that a man who was in hospital for weeks before this terrible murder is to be held responsible and his children rendered homeless, and does the right hon. Gentleman justify that by any sort of law of God or man?

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that Denis Tuohy, aged 26, an ex-member of the Royal Irish Constabulary, was arrested at his father's residence at Gortalassa, near Kenmare, by the military authorities on 1st May, 1921; that Tuohy's brother was informed by the officer in charge that he would shortly be released as there was no charge against him, and that later the same officer threatened Tuohy's father with a pistol on account of the alleged violence of Tuohy while in custody; will he say what was the nature of this violence; is he aware that Tuohy's request for permission to attend Holy Communion or to be visited by his priest was refused, and that he was finally killed in circumstances of a shocking character and the body handed over to the parents; and will he say whether a public inquiry will be held at which the relatives of the dead man may be allowed legal representation?

I have not yet received the result of the court of inquiry in this case, but I have asked that it may be sent to me as soon as possible.

Will the right hon. Gentleman send it to me, or does he wish me to put down a question?

I will send it to the hon. and gallant Member.

asked the Chief Secretary the number of Irishwomen who have been imprisoned under the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act or martial law; and how many of them are detained without trial or without any charge being formulated against them.

The number of women imprisoned in Ireland under the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act or martial law is 402. The great majority of these were unfortunates sentenced to short terms of imprisonment for loitering in the streets after curfew, the majority of whom have served their sentences and been released. The number of women in prison in Ireland who have not been tried is eight. Of these one is awaiting deportation, and the remainder are awaiting trial. There is no woman in military custody or internment.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what were the charges against them?

I must have notice of that question.

My question asks whether there was any charge formulated against them. Does not my right hon. Friend, who is in charge of these matters, know what charges are alleged against them?

I must have notice of that question, and the notice is not set out in the written question on the Paper. It asks how many of them are detained without trial and without charges formulated against them, and my answer was that the total number untried was eight, that one was awaiting deportation, and that the remainder were awaiting trial.

May we take it that the one awaiting deportation is not Countess Markievicz, who is a Member of this House?

She is being kept in prison in Ireland.

Will she be entitled to become a judge of the Appeal Court?

asked the Chief Secretary whether it is the intention of the Government to continue the practice of carrying hostages on police and military lorries; if so, will he give orders that a record be kept of every instance in which a hostage is so carried and the circumstances attending each case; and whether he has now received the promised report in connection with the case in which a hostage was wounded?

I can add nothing to the replies which have already been given to the hon. and gallant Member on this subject. As regards the latter part of the question, I have not yet received the Report of the Court of Inquiry, but I have asked that it may be expedited.

How long does it take to inquire into a simple question of this kind? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this inquiry has been going on now for about two months?

I am not aware of that.

Has the policy of carrying hostages received the approval of the Cabinet?

I cannot answer any question as to what the Cabinet does or does not approve. The policy of carrying hostages is the policy carried out in different parts of Ireland, and has been most effective.

Has the policy of carrying hostages in defiance of all the laws of warfare received the approval of the Government?

Is it not a fact that another hostage has been killed while being carried on a Government lorry, and will the Government give compensation to the relatives of that hostage or any other hostage who has been killed?

That is not included in the question on the Paper.

asked the Chief Secretary whether his attention has been called to allegations as to the treatment of prisoners in Irish prisons and detention camps; and whether he will set up an independent inquiry to investigate the treatment of these prisoners?

Every complaint received by me or by the military authorities regarding the treatment of prisoners in civil prisons or in military detention camps in Ireland has been carefully investigated, and the result of these investigations shows conclusively that there is no ground for the establishment of such an independent inquiry as is suggested. In only two cases was there any foundation at all for the complaint made, and in those cases steps were at once taken to remedy the conditions complained of. Very few complaints have been made, and there is much independent testimony to the general excellence of the conditions.

asked the Chief Secretary whether he can state the number of casualties among civilians and forces of the Crown respectively from 1st January to 1st May?

The casualties among the Forces of the Crown from 1st January to the end of April are as follow: casualties, as those sustained by rebels are, whenever possible, carefully concealed.

Does not that appalling recital give the lie to the right hon. Gentleman's statement that his policy has succeeded? [HON. MEMBERS: "Withdraw!"]

We cannot argue policy at Question Time.

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is prepared to make any statement as to the success or failure of the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act?

In the opinion of the Government the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act and the Regulations made thereunder have been successful in the object for which they were intended, namely, in assisting the Irish Executive to combat the forces of disorder in that country.

asked the Secretary of State for War on what authority, by Statute, Rule of Procedure, Regulation, or Order, legal representation is refused to persons interested in military Courts of Inquiry in Ireland, and in cases where a legal representative is admitted to the hearing the right of cross-examination is refused?

By Section 70 (1) ( a ) of the Army Act, His Majesty may, by rules to be signified under the hand of a Secretary of State, make provisions in respect of the "assembly and procedure of Courts of Inquiry." The provisions made for this purpose and at present in force are Rules of Procedure 124 and 125. These do not provide for the appearance of counsel. Counsel have accordingly no right of audience before a Court of Inquiry. It has been the practice, however, where a Court of Inquiry is held in lieu of inquest under Regulation 81 of the Restoration of Order in Ireland Regulations, for the Court to allow counsel to be present on behalf of persons interested, and to put, through the President, questions to witnesses which, in the opinion of the Court, are material to the Inquiry.

Is there anything in these rules which prevents cross-examination, and is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that hundreds of courts of inquiry took place during the War in which this right of cross-examination was allowed, and it has always been a common thing to allow cross-examination?

I think my answer covers the first part of the hon. and gallant Gentleman's question. As to the second part, I am not aware.

Is it much use allowing a legal representative to be present if you deny him the right of cross-examination?

All the question asks is what is the practice. It does not ask whether it is a good or a bad practice.

What is the purpose of curtailing the scope of these inquiries in the way described by the hon. and gallant Gentleman?

I do not think that arises.

Is there anything in the rules to prevent cross-examination? That is the question I put, and I have not had an answer.

The hon. and gallant Gentleman can refer to the rule.

I have referred to it. Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman say what part of the rule prevents cross-examination?

No, not without notice.

Why is cross-examination not permitted in these courts?

Without notice I cannot say.

Is it not a fact that questions may be put through the President of the Court?

asked the Prime Minister whether he can state the conditions upon which the Government offered to allow Archbishop Mannix to proceed to Ireland, and what good object has been attained by preventing the archbishop from visiting his native country?

No offer to allow Archbishop Mannix to proceed to Ireland was made by His Majesty's Government. The Government's decision was taken after careful consideration, and the Government are satisfied that in all the circumstances it was the right one.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that statements stronger than those attributed to the Archbishop were made by other persons in August, 1914, and no restrictions were imposed upon those persons?

( by Private Notice ) asked the Chief Secretary whether it was a fact that on 15th May Cloncurry House, County Tipperary, the residence of Mrs. Tobin, an aged widow lady living alone with her daughter, both her sons having been killed in action in the late War, was completely broken up and demolished by armed forces of the Crown, although no incriminating documents or evidence of any kind existed; whether such an act is contrary to the policy of His Majesty's Government; and whether the Chief Secretary will issue orders prohibiting such actions in future?

I am not aware of the facts stated in the right hon. and gallant Gentleman's question, which was submitted to me only two hours ago. Tipperary is in the martial-law area, and I shall at once ask the Commander-in-Chief for a report. The wanton destruction of property is, of course, not part of the policy of His Majesty's Government. Most definite orders have been issued by the Commander-in-Chief and the Chief of Police in reference to this question. I can assure my right hon. and gallant Friend that I shall give him the fullest report I receive from the Commander-in-Chief.

With regard to the first part of the reply, of course the right hon. Gentleman could not answer at once on such short notice, but is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the facts are vouched for by the brother of this unfortunate lady, who is a much-respected resident of Ilkeston in this country? As to the second part of the answer, if, as appears possible, a terrible blunder has been committed in this case, and possibly in others, will the right hon. Gentleman see to it that compensation, so far as compensation is possible, shall be paid to this unfortunate widow lady for the damage done?

I was aware of the facts only as stated by the hon. Member. As to compensation for innocent sufferers in that part of Ireland which is in a state of rebellion, or in any part of Ireland, that is a matter now before the Cabinet, and I cannot make any definite statement. It is a very serious question, and it has been before the Cabinet. I hope the Cabinet will be able to come to a decision. It is a question which involves many problems that do not appear on the surface.

Hear, hear!

I wish the hon. and gallant Gentleman would treat this matter seriously.

I wish you would.

There is nothing the Government feels more serious about than the unfortunate suffering of innocent persons and their property, owing to the state of civil war now in Ireland.

May we take it from the right hon. Gentleman that it is his policy to press upon the Cabinet that innocent sufferers shall be compensated, so far as compensation is possible?

It is not usual to ask a Minister about what the Cabinet may do.

If the assassins should prove to be Sinn Feiners in disguise, will the Leader of the House give an assurance that full publicity will be given to the fact?

( by Private Notice ) asked the Chief Secretary whether his attention had been called to the extensive intimidation and terrorism which prevailed yesterday in connection with the election of the North of Ireland Parlia- ment; whether he could explain upon what grounds the police and military failed to protect voters who were endeavouring to exercise the franchise, and the agents of the candidates who were engaged in the polling booths?

My attention has not been drawn to any intimidation and terrorism, extensive or otherwise, that is alleged to have prevailed yesterday in the six counties where the Northern Parliament was elected. I have no reason to believe that the police or military failed to give all necessary protection to voters, but it is obviously impossible for me to attempt at such short notice to deal with any isolated instance of interference that may have occurred. If, however, the hon. Member will furnish me with particulars of any such case I shall have inquiries made immediately. The last Report I have from the six counties is a Police Report, and is as follows:

"Reports now received from each county. Polls very heavy everywhere. All quiet. Last declaration in Tyrone not expected before Saturday. Some results, Antrim, Armagh, Fermanagh, Derry, and Belfast, will be available to-morrow."

The fact that, as stated, "polling has been very heavy everywhere" is, I think, a complete answer to the suggestion of intimidation. I think the House will agree with me that we ought to congratulate ourselves on the peaceful nature of the elections.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Ulster Unionists actually turned out the personation agents of the opposition parties from the polling booths in Belfast, and put in the polling booths men armed, to prevent the personation agents recording the votes of these people?

I do not understand the last part of the hon. Member's question. It is novel, even in Ireland, to have a personation agent record votes for other people. I do not know what they do in Edinburgh, but I can assure the hon. Member and the House that every precaution was taken in the six counties yesterday to have a perfectly free election. The fact that the poll was very large to my mind shows that the precautions were adequate, and answered the purpose for which they were taken.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that if you get rid of personation agents, you may record the votes of even dead people?

I am not aware of that. That is also novel to Ireland.

Is it a fact that many of the Nationalists and Sinn Feiners who went to vote found their votes had been recorded by somebody else?

On a point of Order. Is it in order, in accordance with the ruling of the late Speaker regarding questions which were addressed about the inception of self-government in India, for questions now to be addressed in this House affecting a Parliament or local independent legislature?

This Parliament has not yet come into existence. In regard to further questions, clearly the Chief Secretary cannot know in detail what happened yesterday. Further questions should be put upon the Paper.

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries as to the reason why Nationalists and Sinn Feiners were deprived of their votes in this election, owing to the want of protection?

If the hon. Member has any information or any allegation, he should put it down in terms on the Paper.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that statements have appeared in the public Press, not in one paper, but in a number, to the effect that Ulster Volunteers, who are to-day part of the forces of the Crown, have been inside the polling stations preventing the people from voting, and will he make inquiries into that statement?

As I have already stated, if any specific case of intimidation or misuse of armed forces be brought to my notice I shall naturally inquire into it, be the first to condemn it, and I hope successfully to deal with it.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1), whether the British South Africa Company has, in addition to land sold for cash, and for considerations other than cash, disposed of 2,298,000 acres of land for which no payment has yet been received, and what steps His Majesty's Government proposes to take to recover payment for these lands;

(2), whether, seeing that Lord Cave's award of £4,000,000 to the Chartered Company is subject to two deductions to be decided upon after valuation by other Commissions, these Commissions have yet been appointed; if he can state what is the composition of the Commission appointed to investigate the value of the lands alienated in Rhodesia to the company itself, and for considerations other than cash;

(3), whether it is now within the knowledge of His Majesty's Government that the total area of land alienated by the British South Africa Company in Southern Rhodesia to company promoters and others for considerations other than cash exceeds 15,920,000 acres; whether he is aware that the average value of land alienated in Rhodesia has been stated by the company to be 7s. 6d. per acre; whether, in these circumstances, His Majesty's Government anticipates that the Crown, instead of being a debtor to the company, will be in a position to claim a surplus; and, if so, to what purpose such surplus will be devoted?

It is the case that the British South Africa Company have in the course of their administration of Southern Rhodesia disposed of considerable areas of land for various considerations other than cash, and have also appropriated certain lands for their commercial purposes. The area quoted as 15,920,000 acres is believed to be approximately correct. I have no knowledge of the figure 2,298,000 acres referred to. With regard to the value of 7s. 6d. an acre, I am unable to say what relation this may bear to the value of the land at the time the grant was made. The question of accounting for the lands is dealt with in paragraphs 72–75 of the Report of Lord Buxton's Committee, which is published in Cmd. 1273, and the matter is at present under consideration. I do not think that the hon. and gallant Member need anticipate that the deductions to be made from the award of Lord Cave's Commission in respect of these lands will place the Crown in the position of being able to claim a surplus.

May we take it that there will be a genuine valuation of these lands, and not the acceptance of any offers such as those that have been made public by the British South Africa Company, of some £100,000? Shall we have a definite valuation in accordance with the letter of Lord Cave's award and in accordance with Lord Buxton's views?

I think that in dealing with a matter of this very great importance, which at any stage may form the subject of legal process, I should be very ill advised to answer questions without adequate notice.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this £4,000,000 would otherwise come out of the pocket of the British taxpayer, and is it not his duty to protect the British taxpayer as well as investors in the British South Africa Company?

I do not think that is the case. I do not think it will come out of the pocket of the British taxpayer. It is contended that the assets are sufficient to defray whatever charges there may be, and, although I am no ambassador for the investors in the Chartered Company, at the same time it is to be remembered that this company, to whom we owe the development of these regions, has never hitherto received a penny in dividends.

Surely the right hon. Gentleman is aware that they have received shares in other companies? Apart from that, will he see that this £4,000,000, or whatever sum it amounts to, if it is not met by the British taxpayer, is at any rate not thrown on the backs of the natives of Rhodesia—that their lands are not taken from them and sold or mortgaged to meet this charge?

It is quite impossible for me to deal with these questions at this period.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the people of Rhodesia greatly resent the attempts made in certain quarters to introduce prejudice into the matter?

May I ask the Leader of the House whether we shall have an opportunity of debating this matter, so as to see on which side the prejudice is?

We have not taken the Colonial Estimates yet.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can state the amount which has been spent on road-making in Mesopotamia, and how much will be spent in the course of the present financial year?

The information is not at present available, but if the hon. Member will state the period to which he wishes the figures to be related the High Commissioner will be asked for a report.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) when he will make a statement with regard to his visit to the Middle East and its results;

(2) whether he can make a statement with regard to the recent disturbances in Palestine?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply to the hon. Member for Acton on the 10th May. No further information on the subject is yet forthcoming, as the Commission of Inquiry has not yet produced its Report. I propose to make a general statement on the Middle East on Thursday next week.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether it is proposed to have an air station for aeroplanes upon the River Thames; if so, can he state what part of the river will be utilised for that purpose; if it is proposed to erect a proper pier or landing place for passengers arriving or departing from the river; will the aeroplanes who use the station be under the control of his Department or will the station be allowed to be used by commercial aeroplane companies; if the Government services will be utilised for Post Office mails; and what steps have been taken in order that the ordinary navigation of the river shall not be stopped or interfered with?

The answer to the first part of the question is, that the flights to and from the Thames which have recently taken place have been of a purely experimental nature, in order to determine whether the river could be used by aircraft. The answer to the second part is, that the stretch between Westminster and Albert Bridges is considered the most suitable portion. The answer to the third part is, that the erection of a special pier would be undesirable, and it appears probable that it will also be unnecessary. The answer to the fourth part is, that if it is eventually decided that aircraft may alight on and depart from this portion of the Thames, it is anticipated that the arrangements would, so far as possible, conform to those at Government-owned civil aerodromes. The answer to the fifth part is, that it is intended to adhere to the existing principle that the mails are carried by commercial services. The answer to the sixth part is, that the whole investigation of this question has been carried out in close co-operation with the Commissioner of Police and the Port of London Authority, in order that the safety of the public and the interests of other users of the river may be adequately safeguarded.

asked the Secretary of State for War what is the total value of the kit allowance given to successful cadets on leaving Sandhurst to take up commissions in His Majesty's Army?

The present rate of the normal allowance in aid of outfit issuable to cadets granted commissions from Sandhurst in the cavalry or infantry (other than the Household troops) is £50, together with a camp kit allowance of £7 10s. In addition, a free issue is to be made of revolver, binoculars, and prismatic compasses, either while the cadet is at Sandhurst, or when commissioned. The total value of these allowances and issues in kind may be put at £72 15s. Army Order 3 of 1921 (a copy of which I am sending my hon. Friend) contains full information as to the conditions under which, and the persons to whom, the allowances are issuable, and an Army Order about to be published will contain similar information as regards the issues in kind.

Is the total allowance calculated to cover only field service kit, and not mess kit?

I think only field service kit. I will let the hon. Member know.

Will the 33⅓ duty on binoculars be allowed?

That does not arise out of this question.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that British-owned money in the custody of German banks was, during the War, transferred by the latter to the German custodian for enemy property; that the German authorities are now disputing claims in respect of such money, made through the British clearing house, on the ground that there is a doubt whether they are governed by Article 296 or 297 of the Treaty; whether the Mixed Arbitral Tribunal has yet decided the point; and, if not, will he press for a decision in order that British subjects may receive their property without further delay?

I am aware that in some cases British-owned moneys in German banks were transferred to the German custodian, but in most cases they have not been interfered with and either have been, or presumably will be, admitted as debts under Article 296. In certain cases the German clearing office has adopted the attitude referred to in the second part of the question. Discussions are taking place between the British and German clearing offices on the subject, and it is hoped that a satisfactory arrangement will be come to shortly, failing which a test case will be submitted to the Mixed Arbitral Tribunal for adjudication.

asked the Prime Minister when the treaty with Turkey will be ratified?

I am afraid I cannot make any statement at present.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he will be in a position to make a statement?

No, Sir; I am not even able to say that.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether any further steps have been taken by his Department to place all the employés engaged at the Indian Stores, Belvedere Road, S.E., upon a pension basis; and if such a scheme has been decided upon can he state the date when it will come into force?

The High Commissioner, who now controls the India Store Depot, has agreed with representatives of the staff side of the National Whitley Council to place the bulk of the employés upon a pension basis, subject to certain modifications in their terms of employment. If these are accepted by the men concerned, the scheme will come into force as from 1st April last.

asked the Secretary of State for India what was the proportion of appointments in the Indian Educational Service which the Public Services Commission recommended should be reserved for men recruited in England and in India, respectively; and what are the proportions existing at present?

As regards the first part of the question, the recommendations of the Public Services Commission, are somewhat complex, and my right hon. Friend would refer the hon. and gallant Member to their Report (Cd. 8382 of 1917, pp. 27 and 97). As regards the second part, exact figures relating to the country of recruitment are not available, but in March last the per- centage of Europeans and Anglo-Indians in the Service was 65, and of Indians 35. Fifty per cent. of Indians has been sanctioned as the standard to be worked up to for India as a whole as qualified Indian candidates become available.

asked the Minister of Transport what additional charge the coal dispute has thrown upon the State under the guarantee to the railways?

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Edinburgh East (Mr. Hogge) on this subject yesterday.

had given notice of the following question:

35. To ask the Minister of Transport whether, in arranging for any further reduction of train services, he will represent to the railway companies the value of popular entertainment at the present moment and suggest the retention, so far as possible, of reasonable evening travelling facilities?

called Sir Walter de Frece, who was not present.

On behalf of my hon. Friend, I beg to ask Question No. 35.

May I ask, Mr. Speaker, if it is, in your opinion, right for Members to put down questions persistently, and never appear in the House to ask them?

I do not know what foundation there is for that criticism. Does the hon. Member assert that hon. Members cannot have questions put for them, when they are called on a second round?

In reducing train services for the purpose of conserving coal stocks due regard is paid by railway companies to the claims of theatre-goers for evening train facilities, and such evening trains as circumstances permit are retained.

( by Private Notice ) asked the Leader of the House whether he can now make any announcement with regard to the coal industry dispute?

As the House is aware, the Government has kept throughout in close touch with the situation, but there are still no signs of agreement between the parties to the dispute. The Government has, therefore, decided to make another effort to find a solution, and to summon the miners and the mine-owners to a conference on Friday next.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether the minting of the silver nickel coinage is continuing; and whether means have been found to prevent its discolouration?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Mint is endeavouring to find means to prevent, or lessen, the discolouration of the coins.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Treasury is still carrying on investigations to ascertain whether any reductions are possible this year in the Estimates or Votes; and whether there have been any indications of economies since the Budget statement?

Yes, Sir. The Treasury is constantly exploring every possibility of effecting reductions in public expenditure. Further, a circular has recently been issued which, though primarily directed to the question of the preparation of next year's Estimates, will, it is hoped, as the result of the examination to be undertaken by Departments, secure economies in the course of the current year. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer proposes to lay this circular for the information of hon. Members.

Is it not true that the Chancellor of the Exchequer recently issued a letter to each Government Department instructing them to reduce their expenditure by 20 per cent., and if that is so would it be possible to instruct each Government Department to report each quarter as to what economies they have effected, and, furthermore, could those reports be circulated to all Members of the House?

I do not think that is quite an accurate interpretation of the actual wording of the circular, but it will be at the disposal of hon. Members in a very short time.

It has been issued.

Would it be possible for each Government Department to report each quarter as to what economies have been effected in their Departments? May I ask for a reply, please?

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman see his way to send instructions to the different Departments that it is the wish of the Treasury and of this House that reports should be made during the current year?

The suggestion shall be taken into consideration.

May I press for a reply? Surely they could instruct each Department to report each quarter as to what economies have been effected.

The hon. and gallant Gentleman can hardly expect a further reply from me. I will take the suggestion, which is quite new to me, into consideration.

I will place a question on the Paper next week.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can make any statement as to the effect of the industrial unrest on his Budget Estimates?

No, Sir. I cannot at present add anything to what was said by my right hon. Friend in the Budget Statement.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that employers all over the country, through their associations, are refusing to accept arbitration in settlement of disputes that are arising?

I think that question must be addressed to another Minister.

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware that the rates to be collected in the City of Westmister for 1921–22 show an increase of £541,650 over the figures for 1920–21, of which increase education accounts for £257,046, and that the city council's expenditure shows a decrease of £106,139, which is nullified by increased demands made by other authorities for no less than £647,789; and whether drastic steps will be taken to bring the expenditure for which the Ministry of Education is directly or indirectly responsible, and in a less degree that of other Ministries, within limits such as can be borne by the community?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which he received to a similar question on the 10th May from my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health. With regard to the last part of the question, His Majesty's Government are fully alive to the importance of the suggestion indicated by my hon. Friend.

Has the right hon. Gentleman noticed that this question chiefly refers to education, and that, therefore, the reply of the Minister of Health does not cover the ground?

I notice that the figures in the question are the same figures that were in the previous question.

The Department is different.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the London County Council estimates for 1921–22 show an increase of 4d. for education; and whether any and, if so, what steps are being taken to reduce the demands of the Ministry of Education?

Yes, Sir. A report showing the items of increased educational expenditure was circulated by the London County Council. The report does not justify the suggestion that the increases are due to the demands of the Board of Education.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these rates are pressing with extreme weight upon the ratepayers?

I am not unaware of that, but that is not the question which the hon. Member asks. If he will read his own question he will find that it is quite different.

Will the right hon. Gentleman favourably consider increasing the amount of the necessitous school area grant, whereby the burden on the local authority will be reduced?

No, Sir.

asked the Prime Minister whether he can forecast the date of the termination of the War in terms of the Termination of the War Act, 1918?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given on the 2nd May last to questions on this subject, to which I have nothing to add.

asked the Prime Minister whether he can make any statement as to the present military situation in Asia Minor, and say whether any negotiations have taken place between Greece and Turkey?

His Majesty's Government have no information beyond what has appeared in the newspapers. As regards the last part of the question, it is not known that any negotiations have taken place between Greece and Turkey.

Have the Government no news except what is contained in the newspapers?

I do not say that we have no sources of information except the newspapers, but our informa- tion does not carry us any further than the information which has appeared in the public Press.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the great danger to British interests by these continued hostilities in Asia Minor, and the danger of allowing the situation to drift? Are we doing anything?

I think every body must be well aware that the great need of the world is peace, and His Majesty's Government will do all they can to secure it in all quarters.

asked the Prime Minister whether he can state the terms and personnel of the round-table conference on liquor restrictions and licensing reform?

I hope to make a statement upon this matter in the course of next week.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the discontent in the country which is arising from D.O.R.A. being continued—and finding no fault with an Act which Parliament has passed, yet they object to being played with in this matter by the Government?

That does not arise out of the question on the Paper.

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind the desirability of putting on this Committee people other than those connected with the temperance party and the licensed interest?

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of putting on the Committee representatives of working-men's clubs and institutes?

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of putting representatives of mothers on the Committee?

It is no doubt, true, that in the multitude of counsellors there is wisdom, but in the diversity of their counsel there is often great difficulty in complying with all their requests. We shall try to make a representative body well formed to produce the agreement which we believe to be within reach among, at any rate, a great body of public opinion.

In the event of the Conference reaching substantial agreement can the right hon. Gentleman hold out any hope of legislation this Session?

I shall be obliged if the hon. Member will repeat that question when the Conference has reported.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether anyone is better capable of representing a mother than her son?

asked the Lord Privy Seal when the Supplementary Estimate for the Minister Without Portfolio will be discussed?

I regret that I am not yet in a position to name a date.

In view of the great interest taken in this question, can the right hon. Gentleman arrange that it shall be taken as first Order on whatever day is fixed?

Certainly, we shall try to do that.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that on the previous occasion when the Estimate was down, the undue time taken by the Minister in charge of the previous Vote prevented discussion of this Estimate, and in view of that, will the right hon. Gentleman, in justice to the House, consider the advisability of putting this Vote down on Thursday week?

Without accepting the Noble Lord's suggestion as to what occurred on the previous occasion, or to whom the delay was due, I may say that it is the desire of His Majesty's Government that this Vote shall be taken at a time when it can be adequately and properly discussed and the sense of the House obtained upon it. I cannot undertake to put it down next Thursday or, I think, the Thursday of next week. I am very much in the hands of the House as to what Votes will be taken on a particular day.

May I remind my right hon. Friend that Thursday is a day dedicated to ordinary Supply Votes, and does he agree with me that to take a Vote of this kind on a Supply day would be to deprive the House of its all too limited opportunity of discussing Supply Votes? Does the right hon. Gentleman agree also that this particular Vote is one which is brought in by the Government, and, therefore, outside the scope of the ordinary Supply Votes, and should not take up a regular Supply day?

I am always anxious to agree with my right hon. Friend when I can, but I find it impossible to do so on this occasion. This is Supply. Like all Votes in Supply, it is introduced by the Government on their responsibility, and if the House is not to discuss this kind of vote on a Supply day, I do not know what Supply days are.

The following question stood on the paper in the name of : 18. To ask the Chief Secretary whether his attention has been called to the arrest by the military at Ballybofey, County Donegal, on the night of 27th-28th April of the following men: Joseph Bell, Patrick Conway, Charles Doherty, Francis Kelly, Hugh M'Lean, James M'Gowan, and Mick Magee, and to the fact that no charge was made against them; whether his attention has been called to the events which took place on the night of 25th December, 1920, when the military broke all the windows of the Catholic residents in the towns of Drumboe and Ballybofey; and will he explain why motor-car permits are not granted to Catholics by the authorities, though the prevailing political belief of these people is constitutional nationalism?