asked the Under-Secretary of State for. Foreign Affairs if his attention has been directed to the judgment of the Court of Appeal on Friday, the 5th instant, in the case of White, Child, and Beney, Limited, v. Eagle Star and British Dominions Insurance Company, Limited, etc., when the Court decided that the birth of the present Soviet Government dates back to the 14th November, 1917, from which date its Acts and Decrees are inviolable in the Courts in this country, in conse- quence of which property belonging rightfully to Allied nationals can be brought to this country and disposed of to other than its rightful owners; and whether any legislative action is contemplated to avoid such complications?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. No fresh legislation on this subject it at present contemplated.

Then are we to conclude that all acts of 'Bolshevists must now be upheld in this country; that any property so called "nationalised" may be brought here and sold with a legal title of possession? If that be so, does not the trade agreement with Krassin establish a trade in plunder, and is not Great. Britain its licensed mart?

My hon. Friend knows that this is a difficult and very important question of international law, and I should be glad to have notice of any further questions in regard to it.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he has received any reports of the conditions affecting our fishing vessels in North Russian waters from the commanding officer of the gunboat recently despatched to those waters; and whether he has any information which he can give to fishermen intending to visit those waters?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, the Commanding Officer, His Majesty's Ship "Harebell," arranged with the Hull Steam Trawler Mutual Insurance and Protecting Company on the 2nd April for intercommunication between "Harebell" and British fishing trawlers, and so far as is known the arrangements made have given entire satisfaction to the fishing vessels. It may be added that the fishing season in these waters is practically over, and the sailing of British trawlers has now ceased.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is prepared to lay upon the Table of the House any reports he has received in recent years upon the question of slavery in Abyssinia?

I cannot at present add anything to the reply given to the Noble Lord on 1st March.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what appeal tribunal will be available to hear the cases of officers placed on the retired list by the Admiralty under the Order in Council, recently issued, authorising the compulsory retirement of naval and marine officers for alleged peculiarity of temper or other defect not amounting to misconduct?

All cases of officers who may be dealt with under this Order-in-Council will be considered by the Board of Admiralty, than whom there is no higher naval authority.

Will there be no tribunal to inquire into the cases against these officers?

In disciplinary cases of this sort we cannot have an independent and outside appeal tribunal. These matters will actually come before the Board of Admiralty itself for consideration.

Is it intended to keep this Order-in-Council as part of the King's Regulations? Is it intended to be a permanent Order?

Yes, Sir.

Does it not put a stigma on these unfortunate officers?

There is no question of a stigma at all. It provides in the Navy —as is already the case in the Army and Air Force—for dispensing with the services of officers who, without committing any gross misconduct deserving of a stigma, are not, on the whole, considered adequate to their work. No stigma attaches to them at all.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the fact that the special scheme for the retirement of officers of the Indian Army has been published, he can now state how it is proposed to deal with officers of the Royal Navy surplus to requirements?

Details of the scheme of retirement of surplus personnel were announced in Admiralty Fleet Orders, Nos. 1358 and 1359, dated 12th May, copies of which I am sending to my Noble and gallant Friend.

Why does this Order apply only to captains and ranks below. Is the hon. Gentleman not dealing with the cases of flag officers surplus to requirements?

I have already stated in answer to a question that we are dealing with the eases of flag officers.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he can give the dates when volumes of the Naval History of the War were published; and whether he can give the dates when it is anticipated that further issues may be expected?

The first and second volumes of the History of Naval Operations by Sir Julian Corbett, were published in March, 1920, and October, 1921, respectively. It is anticipated that the third volume will be published in the spring of 1923. No dates can be given at present as regards further issues.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he will state the total saving effected on the average overhead rate authorised for general messes during the year 1921; whether such amount accrued to the Crown; and whether, since it would be a more equitable arrangement for money saved on the victualling of the men of the Royal Navy to be devoted to their interests, he will make an arrangement for that purpose?

As regards the first part of the question, the men are messed by the Admiralty at such cost as will enable a good and sufficient dietary to be pro- vided. There is no money allowance personal to the man, and the question of savings and their disposal does not, therefore, arise. The overhead rate, as authorised from time to time, to be worked to by the officers in charge of the general messes, is intended merely as an index figure of the maximum amount which the daily cost of messing a man under this system should average over a period.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the fact that the provisions of Article 8 of the King's Regulations and Admiralty Instructions do not allow for any punishment to be suspended pending the result of an appeal lodged in accordance with paragraph 2 of this Regulation, he will consider the advisability of amending paragraph 2 of Article 8 of the King's Regulations and Admiralty Instructions to allow of the sentence being suspended until after the appeal has been decided?

The Article quoted by the hon. Member neither allows nor forbids the suspension of punishments pending the investigation of an appeal. The suspension of punishments is permitted under certain circumstances by Sections 53 (1) and 74A of the Naval Discipline Act.

Is it fair for a man to be under the stigma until the appeal is concluded?

My hon. Friend is dealing with an individual instance which is under consideration.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether it is intended to dispose of Pembroke Dockyard; whether any offers have been received; and what is the total sum provided under the current Estimates for this yard?

The reply to the first two parts of the question is in the negative. The total amount of expenditure at Pembroke provided in the current Estimates is £352,830?

Is it intended to retain the dockyard permanently on the Navy Votes or not?

The reasons for which it has been decided to retain this dockyard are reasons of general national economy rather than Admiralty reasons of economy, and they have been fully stated here.

Are they not National Liberal economy reasons?

In view of the special position of Ireland in regard to this dockyard, will not the hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of not closing the yard from that point of view?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware of the general feeling of indignation among British fishermen frequenting Icelandic waters at the harsh treatment recently meted out to certain of their comrades by the Icelandic authorities and the officers of the Icelandic gunboats, and that there is a general desire among these fishermen that the White Ensign should he shown more frequently in Icelandic waters; and whether a gunboat or destroyer can be sent for this purpose?

No reports have been received at the Admiralty of harsh treatment of British fishermen in Icelandic waters or that there is a general desire for the White Ensign to be shown more frequently in this locality. On the general question I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the very full answers given by my Noble Friend the Member for Horsham and Worthing on the 9th May.

Have the Admiralty inquired at the Foreign Office as to the complaints of overbearing conduct towards these officers and fishermen?

As far as the Foreign Office aspect of the question is concerned, it was fully dealt with in an answer given by my Noble Friend only a week ago.

If the hon. Gentleman is assured that there is a great deal of indignation among the fishermen in relation to this matter cannot he send one of the ships of our immense Navy up there occasionally?

I do not think we have an immense Navy available for that purpose.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if the naval wireless station at Bun-beg, County Donegal, was maliciously destroyed last Friday by an armed band; if the furniture and fittings it contained were stolen and subsequently sold by auction by the thieves; what is the estimated amount of the loss sustained; and why the station was not effectively guarded?

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the present position in regard to the Bunbeg naval wireless station; arid what steps the Government propose to take to prevent further occurrences in Ireland of a similar character?

This wireless station was handed over to the Provisional Government a fortnight ago. On Thursday last it was destroyed. The amount of loss sustained by the Provisional Government depends on the extent of the destruction, as to which I have no information, but the total value of the buildings, furniture and equipment was approximately £4,600. In view of the fact that the station had been handed over to the Provisional Government the last part of both questions does not arise.

asked the Prime Minister whether British troops have been offered to the Northern Government to repel organised raids on the part of the Irish Republican Army; and whether adequate military forces are available in Ulster in the event of a massed attack being made upon the Ulster border, in view of a report issued by the commandant-general of the First Northern Division, Irish Republican Army, with regard to the recent fighting at Newtown-cunningham, in which he stated that a party of his flying column had been attacked while resting at Newtowncunningham, to which they had returned from active service in the six-county area?

No British troops have been offered to the Government of Northern Ireland for any specific purpose such as that suggested in the question, but, as the House is aware, British troops are stationed within the area of that Government and are available for use in aid of the civil power if their aid is asked for. In reply to the second part of the question, His Majesty's Government has no reason to suppose that the number of troops so available is inadequate, but should the Northern Government at any time make representations in the matter, those representations will, of course, be very carefully considered.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Commission to inquire into awards made under the Criminal and Malicious Injuries (Ireland) Act is summoning witnesses to Dublin to give their evidence; that many so summoned are persons who have been obliged to leave Ireland under threat of death and whether, under these circumstances, he will consider the possibility of transferring the sittings of the Commission to Holy-head, to Bangor, or to Chester?

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that witnesses who have been summoned to Dublin in connection with awards made under the Criminal and Malicious Injuries Act, 1920, and who have been forced to leave Ireland on threat of death, are afraid to return; and will he consider whether a change of venue would be possible?

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that many of those who have claims to make before the Committee of Inquiry into compensation claims to be held in Dublin in open Court consider that their lives would be in danger if they were to appear and give evidence in Dublin; and if opportunity will be given to such claimants to state their case in London, or elsewhere in Great Britain, under conditions where they may be free from the dangers which they fear in Dublin?

This Commission will hold its first meeting in Dublin at the end of this week. I am informed that no witnesses 'have been summoned by the Commission to this meeting. I am not aware that it has settled the procedure to be adopted before it, but I have no doubt that should the Commission find it necessary in any particular case to require the personal attendance of any individual who has reason to believe that his presence in Ireland would expose him to risk, suitable arrangements would be made to receive his statements elsewhere.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether His Majesty's Government has any further information as to the attack on two British soldiers in Dublin last Friday; and whether the Provisional Government has made any arrest in connection with the murder of Gunner Rolfe?

In reply to the first part of the question, the reports regarding this outrage which I have received add nothing to the information which has appeared in the Press. I understand that no arrest has yet been made in connection with this murder.

Does the right hon. Gentleman see any advantage in giving arms to the Provisional Government, which never punishes and never protects, even five months after peace is supposed to have been declared?

That is an argument.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is included in the term, pending trans. actions, for payment of purchase money under the Wyndham Irish Land Purchase Act; whether this includes all purchase moneys upon which interest is being paid at present; if not, what claims are excluded; and whether he will give an assurance on behalf of His Majesty's Government that all claims already recognised by payment of interest will in due course be liquidated?

The term "pending transaction" is well understood. What is contemplated is that such transactions should be proceeded with in the same way as if there had been no change of Government. Interest on purchase money may be payable in the case of a purchase agreement which has not been finally sanctioned, and until final sanction has been given in accordance with the usual procedure it cannot be assumed that the purchase money mentioned in such agreement will be payable.

Is the House to understand that the Government can give no guarantee that the whole of the purchase money upon which interest has been paid will be liquidated?

I have tried to answer the hon. Member's question. If he will read the answer, which has been prepared by the proper authorities, he will see that it covers the case he raises in his supplementary.

Can the right hon. Gentleman state whether the changed status of Southern Ireland has in any way affected the liability of the British Government which they undertook in this matter?

I must have notice of that question.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when the proposed Commission to deal with cases of victimisation, malicious injury, and persecution in Ireland is to be appointed; what representation will be given to the Catholics of Belfast and of the six counties of Northern Ireland on that Commission; and whether the parliamentary representatives of the Catholics of the six-county area will be consulted on the matter?

I am not aware of any proposal to appoint a Commission such as that referred to by the hon. Member. The last two parts of the question do not therefore arise.

May I ask why a similar Commission for the North-Eastern area of Ireland is not being appointed under precisely the same conditions as exist in Southern Ireland, where a Commission was appointed?

That question was thoroughly gone into in the recent Debate, and may be raised again this afternoon. It cannot be answered fully in reply to a supplementary question.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction with regard to the policy followed at the Employment Exchanges in informing men of vacancies created by a lock-out or strike; and whether, in view of the fact that, although applicants for employment are informed that a dispute is in progress, the supplying of information as to such vacancies is calculated to encourage men to offer themselves, to the prejudice of men engaged in the dispute, thus removing the exchanges from the field of strict neutrality, he will consider the advisability of instructing all exchange managers that particulars as to vacancies at establishments where a dispute is in progress shall not be dealt with?

I am not aware of any general dissatisfaction with regard to the manner in which Employment Exchanges deal with vacancies created by a trade dispute. The procedure, which is laid down by Regulations made under the Labour Exchanges Act, 1909, is to tell applicants all the facts known to the exchange. This seems to me to be the nearest approach possible to neutrality.

Has the right hon. Gentleman not yet studied the recommendations of the Committee of Inquiry presided over by the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Gorbals (Mr. Barnes) and their suggestions relative to this matter? Does he not think that some such new Regulation should he made so as to ensure the neutrality of Employment Exchanges in connection with lock-outs and strikes?

I have studied these recommendations, but, in my judgment, it is not desirable to alter the law. I have stated what is done in the matter.

Is it not the fact that managers of Employment Exchanges, many years ago, were instructed to inform men, when applying for situations, if there was a strike or lock-out?

That is what I have just said. It is the procedure laid down in the Regulations to which my hon. Friend has referred. The recommendation is that men should be told if there is a strike or lock-out, and that is what is done.

Is it not possible for the right hon. Gentleman to see that the Employment Exchanges are closed down? Then there would be no need for these precautions.

Close down lockouts at the same time.

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the Engineering and National Employers' Federation have locked out the whole of the workers in the engineering industry; if he is aware that workmen at Accrington who, prior to 2nd May, the date when the lock-out notices operated to workmen other than members of the Amalgamated Engineering Union, were unemployed and receiving unemployment insurance benefit, had the benefit discontinued by the Employment Exchange officer after that date on the ground that they should have accepted the conditions of employment offered by the Engineering Employers' Association; and will he take action immediately to reinstate such unemployment benefit?

I am making inquiries into the cases referred to by my hon. Friend, and I will let him know the result as soon as possible. I may add that the general point referred to in the question is at present receiving my consideration, and so far as I am aware benefit has not been stopped in cases of the kind referred to.

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Miss A. C. Phillips, 17a, Wellington Road, Bow, whose claim for unemployment benefit has been disallowed at the Stratford Employment Exchange; whether he is aware that Miss Phillips, after several years of expensive education, secured a position as secretary and shorthand-typist; that in consequence of the death of her employer she lost her employment; and that because she has refused employment as a domestic servant, on account of her delicate health and her personal abilities, her claim for benefit has been disallowed; whether it is in accordance with the Regulations that benefit should not be paid in such Cases; and whether he will have further inquiries made into this matter?

I am having inquiries made locally and will communicate the result to my hon. Friend.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that unemployed persons in Northfleet have to walk a distance of about 14 miles to appear before the Strood Board of Guardians to apply for relief; that the Strood Board of Guardians only meets once a month; and whether he will make representations to the board of guardians as to the possibility of allowing a sub-committee of the board, consisting partly of the Northfleet members, to sit in Northfleet and deal with local cases?

Yes, Sir. I am in communication with the guardians with regard to their arrangements for dealing with applications for relief.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that 98 men at the Hollesley Bay Labour Colony have returned to London as a protest against the conditions of work; and whether he will make an inquiry into the matter?

asked the Minister of Health whether he has been informed of the return, in a body, of nearly 100 men from the Labour Colony, Hollesley Bay, as a protest against the conditions of work there; whether he regards the hours of labour, pay, and general conditions as satisfactory; and whether, since the return of these men will mean that they will most probably become a charge upon the boards of guardians, he will sec that the conditions at the Labour Colony are made at least sufficiently tolerable to induce men to stay there?

I am aware that a number of men relieved at the Colony have returned to London, and. I am making inquiries into the matter, but on the information at present available I see no reason to criticise the hours of labour, pay and general conditions of the Colony. As regards the last part of the question, I would point out that these men were already in receipt of relief, and have been sent to the Colony at the cost of the guardians.

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to a recent statement by His Honour Judge Parry that anyone who spends a morning in an urban county court knows that the house shortage is causing untold moral and physical ill-being; and, in view of the Government's pronouncement that they only contemplated a temporary check on their building programme until prices fell, will he now authorise local authorities in congested and overcrowded areas to build more houses, seeing that building costs are now down over 100 per cent.?

My attention has not previously been drawn to the statement referred to. As regards further Government housing, I can add nothing to the replies already given to the hon. Member on the subject, but, as I stated recently, I shall be happy to entertain proposals from local authorities to build outside the State Assisted Scheme.

Has the right hon. Gentleman considered whether any slight financial gain that may accrue through the delay is not more than compensated for by the moral and social harm done by the continuance of overcrowding?

I do not see why the local authorities, whose primary duty it is to deal with these questions, should not begin to act on their own responsibility.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the rates of some local authorities are 20s. or 30s. in the £, and that they cannot afford to take over State responsibilities in regard to which the Prime Minister offered assistance at the last election?

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the conflicting statements made as to the shortage of housing accommodation, he will ascertain from local authorities the number of new houses they still require to prevent the excessive overcrowding at present existing in most industrial areas, and which according to all medical officers of health is prejudicial to the preservation of good health and morals?

I have given oareful consideration to this suggestion, but I do not think there would be any advantage in obtaining a special return at the present time.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this overcrowding occurs, not only in industrial areas, but also to a very considerable extent in agricultural areas?

There has always been a considerable amount of overcrowding in this country, and I have no doubt that it exists in those areas.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the great demand for housing accommodation in the district of the North Darley Urban District Council, and that there are many houses in this district which are being kept empty by the owners with a, view to their being sold at an enhanced price; and whether, under these circumstances, he will introduce such legislation as is necessary to empower local authorities to take possession of such houses, guaranteeing a fair rent to the respective owners and thus provide the housing accommodation required or, in the alternative, that the owners may be called upon to pay the rates in full in the same manner that the tenant would have to pay if the houses were occupied?

I have no evidence that there is a great demand for housing accommodation in this district, or that houses are being kept empty as stated in the question. I could not undertake to introduce legislation for the purpose suggested.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it is time that this method of blackmail was stopped, in the interests of the community?

asked the Minister of Health if his attention has been called to the widespread feeling of anxiety among householders, lodgers, and shopkeepers arising out of the statement that the Rent Restrictions Act is to be allowed to lapse; and whether he will cause a statement to be issued to allay public anxiety?

As I have previously stated, I think it would be premature to make any statement at the present time as to continuing an Act which has more than 12 months still to run.

Is the right hon. Baronet aware that this subject is causing a lot of anxiety, and that a statement from him would ease the public mind?

No doubt.

asked the Minister of Health if, having regard to the injury to public health caused by the close proximity of stables to dwelling-houses, he will either sanction local bye-laws or amend the Public Health Acts so that local authorities can object to the erection of stables in close proximity to dwelling-houses in congested area?

Local authorities can regulate, through bye-laws, the space about stables which are to be erected. There is no similar power as regards existing buildings converted into stables, and the question of legislation on this matter will be borne in mind when opportunity offers.

Is the right hon. Baronet aware that serious ill-health results from this congestion, and how long does he propose to wait until the local authorities have power to remedy this state of things?

I have pointed out that the conversion of existing buildings is a question of legislation. My hon. Friend is as well aware as am of the difficulty of getting fresh legislation through this House at present.

asked the Minister of Health if he will recommend that a Committee, such as the Geddes Committee, shall be set up to inquire into the condition and management of the finances of all local boards?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave last Thursday to a similar question by the hon. Member for the Moss Side Division of Manchester (Lieut.-Colonel Hurst).

asked the Minister of Health if he can see his way to grant a full public inquiry into the financial position of the Aberdare District Council; and if he will instruct the district auditor to inquire into the allegations that Hirwain School huts cost £R.rno and are worth £200 only, that Abercwmbri School huts proposed cost is £4,000 and arc worth £150, and that a wall, 150 feet long, 6 feet in height, by 21 inches wide, cost £400 and is only worth £100?

As I stated in reply to a question by the hon. Member on Wednesday last, the inquiry can best be made by the district auditor at the forthcoming audit. The audit will be a public one, and the auditor has full power to investigate all the matters referred to by the hon. Member and to take such action as may be necessary.

asked the Minister of Health if the medical officer, sent from the Department of the Ministry of Health to Newcastle to investigate the serious cases of milk pollution in that city, has concluded his investigations and sent in his report; and, if so, what are the particulars of such report?

Yes, Sir; I have received the report of my officer, and am satisfied that the results stated by the medical officer of health of Newcastle-on-Tyne are correct.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the representative who was sent down from the Department was a qualified analyst?

The representative who went down was a qualified man. It is not a question of analysis, but a question of bacteriology.

Is there a qualified analyst in the Department for the purpose of making investigations on samples of milk?

It is not a question of analysis. I sent down a duly qualified medical man, who examined into the bacteriological measures taken. I have read his report very carefully myself, and he confirms the methods adopted by the medical officer of health as having been satisfactory.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that since this question was first raised a fortnight ago additional samples have been taken, and that 10 per cent. additional pollution has been found in the samples taken during that period?

I am not aware of that.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is satisfied that the scheme for training disabled ex-service men, as proposed by the technical advisory panel at its meeting on 11th April last, is justifiable in view of the present state of the industry, and the considerable number of experienced ophthalmic optical workers at present unemployed; whether the period of training, as proposed, is sufficient to guarantee to the men so trained sufficient knowledge and experience to enable them to obtain employment in other workshops when their period of training is completed; and whether this particular industry offers sufficient prospects to justify the training of more men within it?

This scheme has been very carefully considered by a panel representing the trade concerned and by the Department, and although, unfortunately, there is at present considerable unemployment on the manufac- turing side, openings are available in jobbing and prescription houses. Training will be carried out wholly in workshops and the admission of trainees will be regulated by the openings immediately available. An extension of the periods of training will be considered if experience shows it to be necessary, but I am advised that the periods laid down are adequate.

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the injustice to small tradesmen in the matter of the King's Roll; whether he is aware that although they may have done their best by keeping open the places of their employés who went to the War, through being unable to employ their quota of ex-service men they are disqualified for the King's Roll, and as a result cannot contract for Government work; and can he see his way to remedy this hardship?

Firms with 20 workpeople or less can qualify for the Roll by employing one disabled man. The position of firms so small that they cannot employ even one disabled man is safeguarded in connection with Government contracts by the authority given to the contracting department to allocate contracts in very exceptional circumstances to employers not on the Roll. The size of the firm is one of the circumstances taken into account.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that there are approximately 1,700 women employed at the Ministry's Department at Kew, and that strenuous efforts are made to bring about the complete staffing of this Department with female labour; and whether, having regard to the fact that thousands of ex-service men who are capable of doing the work are at present unemployed, he will have the matter thoroughly inquired into, and not permit the threatened change until this House has had an opportunity of discussing the same?

There are approximately 1,700 women now employed at the claims and record office at Kew wholly engaged on work classified by the Treasury as permanent women's work, and there are upwards of 1,800 ex-service men. A year ago the corresponding figures were 1,800 and 1,700 respectively. The principles laid down in the Lytton Reports upon the employment of ex-service men are being fully observed at Kew, and there is, therefore, no ground for the suggestion contained in the question.

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean by that that the suggestion that strenuous efforts are made to bring about the complete staffing of this Department with female labour is not borne out by the facts?

I am compelled by the Treasury Regulations to allocate a proportion of this work to women, and that has been done, but there is no foundation for the suggestion that "strenuous efforts are made to bring about the complete staffing of this Department with female labour." I have not heard of the suggestion. I should have something to say about it if it were made.

asked the Minister of Labour if his attention has been called to the situation of the temporary staff at the Blyth Employment Exchange; is he aware that all the staff are ex-service men, that the work is increasing, some of the staff are being dismissed, others under notice, and that those remaining are working overtime; and will he inquire into the matter?

The temporary staff at Blyth, as at most Exchanges, consists entirely of ex-service men. The work at the Blyth Exchange has recently been declining, not increasing, and accordingly the staff has been reduced by one. A considerable amount of overtime was worked at the Exchange in the week ending 8th May, but the reason for this is not clear, and inquiry is being made.

asked the Minister of Labour whether it is proposed to close down the Government instructional factory at Spring Bank, Hull, and to transfer the trainees to Leeds; if so, whether he will state the reasons for this step; whether he has considered the great inconvenience which this will cause to the trainees, and especially to married men with families; and whether he will consent to receive a deputation on the subject before the factory is finally closed?

There has been no decision as yet to close this factory, but its continuance depends upon the rate at which the trades in Hull are prepared to pass men into training. I will certainty receive a deputation on the matter if so requested.

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for the last part of his answer, may I ask whether there is a large waiting list in the locality waiting for admission to this factory?

We have some 29,000 throughout the country, and I imagine that there is a considerable number in that district.

Why are not the vacancies filled up?

The work is in the hands of the local technical advisory committee. They tell us how many men can be admitted, having regard to the possibilities of future employment. During.a time of great depression they make that number fewer and fewer. If my hon. and gallant Friend, the next time he is in Hull, will use his persuasive powers with the local technical advisory committee, I shall be very much obliged to him.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the great hardship to all classes, and loss of infant life that is being experienced in Vienna owing to the acute shortage of butchers' meat and milk; and whether, seeing that this is the result of Hungary not being able to send either meat or milk to Vienna, because, under a Treaty obligation, she has to give up her cattle to Roumania and Yugo-Slavia, and that both these countries are, as compared with Vienna, amply supplied with meat and milk, he will make representations to the countries in question to forego their claim for cattle and take their reparation in some other form?

I am aware that considerable distress exists in Vienna owing to the difficulty experienced by many of the inhabitants in obtaining sufficient meat and milk. This situation, which has existed for some years, cannot, however, be due to the demand made upon Hungary for the surrender of cattle. This demand is made in accordance with the Treaty of Trianon. Although a very generous time limit has been allowed to the Hungarian Government within which to fulfil it, they have not, as a matter of fact, yet complied. Moreover, the number of cattle now to be surrendered represent only one-fifth of Hungary's annual surplus live-stock, or one-half of 1 per cent. of her total stock.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that Hungary gives this as the actual reason why she cannot send meat to Vienna?

I have no official statement from Hungary to that effect.

As Germany has been let off so easily in the matter of reparations, could not the same consideration more suitably be extended to Austria and Hungary?

Is it not a fact that the Roumanians themselves carried off enormous numbers of livestock from that territory, actually themselves collecting the reparations in question?

These are large questions and I must have notice.

Has not the whole matter been raised by the question of the hon. Member opposite?

This is leading to debate.

asked the Minister of Health (1) the names of the counties and unions where 28 persons, after an inquest, were declared to have died from starvation or privation in the year 1920;

(2) the age and sex, specifying in what unions they died, of the four persons who were found upon an inquest to have died from starvation or privation in London;

(3) whether he will obtain a report on the deaths caused by starvation or privation in 1020 in Durham county from the Coroners as well as from the Poor Law inspector; the ages and sex of the deceased person and the name of the unions where they died; whether be has received information that the number of such deaths were four in London and 28 in the provinces from inquiries made from all the Coroners in England and Wales; and, if not, whether he will make inquiries from all Coroners who have not been asked so as to ensure that the total numbers are given correctly?

As the reply to these questions is necessarily lengthy, I propose to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

asked the Minister of Heath whether he is aware that there is a settlement of caravans in the Wirral Division of Cheshire which is spreading in every direction and getting quite beyond the power of the local authorities to deal with and control; and whether he can see his way to send down one of his officers to inspect it and report upon it and also consult with the local authority as to the best steps to be taken?

Yes, Sir. I propose to send one of my officers to Wirral at an early date, and he will consult with the local authority as to the steps to be taken.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the Vote on the Leeds and Bradford Extension Bill and the feeling thereby engendered on municipal plans of this nature, he will now consider the desirability of instituting a general inquiry into the whole question of urban extension and the principles which should govern it, so as to avoid injustice to the non-urban districts and the waste of money in promoting schemes which do not meet with public acceptance?

I am at present conferring with representatives of the County Councils Association and the Municipal Corporations Association on the general question of borough extensions, and I hope it may be possible to arrive at some agreement which will commend itself to the judgment of the House.

asked the Prime Minister what are the terms of reference of the Committee, presided over by the Minister of Health, which is considering the question of amalgamating certain common services, such as the medical, accountant, audit, and chaplain branches of the three fighting Services; what is the constitution of the Committee; and is the Committee in a position to recommend the creation of a Ministry of Defence should it appear to them to be desirable?

The terms of reference of the Committee are as follows: That a technical Committee should be set up at once to make definite proposals for the amalgamation, or, if this appeared impossible or undesirable, for the co-ordination, so far as possible, of the common services of the Navy, Army and Air Force, such as intelligence, supply, transport, education, medical, chaplains, and any other overlapping Departments, in order to reduce the cost of the present triplication. The Committee should consider each branch separately, and submit interim reports to the Cabinet as soon as possible.

The Committee consists of:

• The Minister of Health (Chairman).
• The Right Hon. the Lord Weir.
• The hon. Member for Moray and Nairn.
• The hon. and gallant Member for Howdenshire.
• Sir G. L. Barstow.
• Sir Arthur I. Durrant.
• Major-General Sir P. A. M. Nash.

As I stated in reply to questions on Monday last, a separate Committee will investigate the practicability of a Ministry of Defence.

In view of the fact that the question of the establishment of a Ministry of Defence, and the amalgamation of the services mentioned are so closely connected, would it not be best to have the same Committee to make the same investigation?

If the Government thought so they would have appointed one Committee to inquire into both questions. The Government take a different view. Of course it is not a matter that can be settled by question and answer.

When will the Committee to inquire into the desirability of a Ministry of Defence be set up?

I must have notice. I am not quite certain what the exact state of affairs is at the moment.

It will be set up?

Oh yes.

asked the Prime Minister whether observers will be sent out at the same time to Anatolia, to Smyrna, and other districts at present in the occupation of the Greek forces?

In order to guard against the risk of reprisals, and that we may be in possession of accurate information, His Majesty's Government will at once propose to the Allies and the Government of the United States of America to join in sending officers to the Smyrna district also.

asked the Prime Minister what number of observers are to be sent to Anatolia, and when will they start?

I regret that I cannot answer this question until the replies of the Allied and American Governments and of the Angora authorities to the proposals of His Majesty's Government have been received.

The right hon. Gentleman cannot even tell me the number of observers?

No, obviously not. That must depend on the communications with the Angora Government, and so far they have not answered our first communication. A request to treat the matter as urgent has been addressed to them, I think, to-day.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in order to avoid delays which may mean the death of thousands of the non-Turkish inhabitants of Anatolia, the proposed British observers will be sent forthwith without waiting for action by any other country?

If other Powers do not agree to send Commissioners, His Majesty's Government will nevertheless endeavour to send a British Mission on their own account.

Will the instructions to this Commissioner or observer be to report upon atrocities by whomsoever committed, of whatever nationality or religion?

Most certainly.

asked the Prime Minister if, in view of the fact that His Majesty's Government has been repeatedly warned that the Allied policy of sending the Greeks to Smyrna would result in massacres of Christian and Moslem minorities, and that the policy of sending British observers is not likely to prove helpful to minorities, it will suggest to a neutral Government the advisability of sending representatives to Smyrna and to Pontus, with the consent of the Royal Government of Greece and the Government of Angora, to bear impartial testimony as to what is happening?

As I stated on the 15th instant, the Turkish atrocities against the Christian minorities have been going on almost continuously for more than seven years. His Majesty's Government have good reasons to believe that about half a million Ottoman Greeks were deported by the Turks during the War, of whom a very large number perished in circumstances of unspeakable barbarity. I cannot, therefore, accept my hon. Friend's implication that the Turkish atrocities of the last few years are primarily due to the Greek landing at Smyrna. With regard to the second part of the question, I would point out that His Majesty's Government have already asked the Government of the United States of America, which is a neutral power, as well as the Governments of France and Italy, to join them in sending representatives to the Pontine district. In so far as the despatch of similar representatives to the Smyrna district is concerned, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave to the Noble Lord the Member for Hitchin to-day.

asked the Lord Privy Seal what has been the decision of the Sub-Committee of Imperial Defence en Indian military requirements?

The Sub-Committee have not completed their Report, though I anticipate that another meeting will probably enable them to do so. It will then, I think, be necessary for the Report to be considered at a full meeting of the Committee of Imperial Defence. Some time must therefore elapse before a statement can be made to the House.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India when the new pension rules for the Royal Indian Marine are to be introduced?

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer given on the 15th May to the hon. Member for the Bury St. Edmunds Division.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether the Mandate for Palestine comes before the League of Nations this week; and when and in what manner he proposes to submit it to this House for approval?

It is hoped that the Mandate will come before the Council of the League of Nations this week. I am not yet in a position to make any statement as to the occasion on which it could best be discussed in this House.

As we are getting very near the date of the meeting of the League of Nations, can the right hon. Gentleman say when the matter will definitely come before the House for consideration and approval?

If there be a real desire on the part of the House to discuss it, I think it is obviously a matter which the House ought to have an opportunity of discussing. The Government would not object to the House discussing such a matter. I do not feel that it is necessary as a matter of form, as a matter of routine, to submit it formally to the House. If there is a desire to discuss it, there must be some opportunity found, but what that opportunity will be, and when it will arise, I cannot say at the present time.

As this Mandate means the expenditure of great sums of money, ought it not as a matter of routine to come before the House, and ought not the approval of the House to be asked?

I think that assumption is not correct. The adoption of the Mandate will rather lessen our expenditure than increase it.

There will he some expenditure arising.

If there is, it must go on the Estimates. Therefore it will have to come up.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to the report of a lecture delivered in Rome by the Roman Catholic Patriarch of Jerusalem, to the effect that Roman Catholics in Palestine no longer enjoy the privilege of having their own tribunals, and that the administration of justice is partial; and will he have this question inquired into?

Yes, Sir, I have read with some surprise a copy of the report, referred to, which contains several statements which I can only presume were incorrectly reported. The suggestion that any privilege enjoyed by Roman Catholics in Palestine has been suspended or interfered with is, of course, totally without foundation. It is true that the necessity for European subjects, whether Roman Catholic or not, to have recourse to their own Consular Courts on civil matter no longer exists under a British administration and it is proposed that this fact shall be explicitly stated in the Mandate for Palestine. I am not aware upon what ground the allegation was made, if indeed it was made, that the administration of justice in Palestine is partial. It is absolutely untrue.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any decision has been taken with regard to the early termination of the system of slavery in Tanganyika Territory?

Yes, Sir, the penal code now in force in the Territory provides, among other things, that whoever imports, exports, removes, buys, sells or disposes of any person as a slave, or accepts or detains against his will any person as a slave, is punishable by imprisonment with or without hard labour, and is also liable to a fine. A separate Ordinance will be enacted shortly making further provisions which are considered advisable.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether there are any fighting aeroplanes fitted with a parachute; whether flying officers have received any orders in reference to the use of parachutes; and whether he can make a statement as to the position which has been arrived at in regard to the use of parachutes and their reliability in the prevention of accidents?

With reference to the first part of the question there are no fighting aeroplanes at present fitted with parachutes. As regards the second part of the question, a number of training aeroplanes are so fitted and instruction in the use of parachutes is being given, but at present no live drops for practice or experimental purposes are to be made from heavier-than-air craft. In reply to the third part of the question, the position in regard to parachutes is as follows: About 140 parachute sets have been issued for the equipment of Avro aeroplanes, which is the type employed for flying training purposes. These sets are being used for service trials, and reports are now being received making suggestions and recommendations regarding modifications and improvements found necessary. It is the intention to bring parachutes into general use as soon as they have reached a stage of development which warrants action involving some considerable expenditure.

Is there any truth in the rumour—it cannot be more than that—that the Research Department on Parachutes has been very largely depleted in the last month, and that officers have been leaving?

I hope not. I will make inquiries.

Has any application for one come from the President of the Board of Education?

asked the Minister of Agriculture what has been the average in the last three years of Canadian cattle imported into this country for slaughter?

The total number of live cattle for food imported from Canada into the United Kingdom in 1921 was 31,974, and in the four months, January to April of this year, 2,193. No importation took place in 1919 or 1920.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the present embargo is very seriously interfering with the trade in Canadian cattle, and can he press the cattle—

The hon. Member is making his speech in detachments. He should reserve the bits and give them as a complete whole when the occasion arises.

aswed the Minister of Agriculture if he has been able to trace the origin of the case of rabies near Southampton; have any other dogs been infected since the Muzzling Order was imposed; and, if so, how many?

The answer to the first two parts of the question is in the negative. The dog was probably bitten some time between early January and May by a rabid dog, now dead. Inquiries are being made as to any dogs lost or destroyed during that period, and as to whether any dogs may have been smuggled into the Southampton area from abroad.

What steps is the right hon. Gentleman taking? Has the Muzzling Order been enforced?

I am sorry that it has been necessary to re-impose the Muzzling Order in an area around Southampton.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport if his attention has been called to the narrow and dangerous part of the county road from Lletty-Turner Farm to the Pontyeynon Bridge, in the County of Glamorgan, South Wales; is he aware that a steam wagon was thrown over the embankment near Nixon's Colliery and that four workmen were injured on the. 16th ultimo; and will he take any action, in conjunction with the, county council, to remove this danger as soon as possible?

The divisional road engineer has been instructed to make inquiries into the accident and into the condition of the road referred to. Upon receipt of his report I will consider what action, if any, is called for and communicate with my hon. Friend.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether he is aware of the serious extent to which the home timber trade is being handicapped by the continuance of high railway charges, while home-grown timber fetches only 25 per cent. more than before the War, as well as by the difficulty of competing against foreign supplies, which enjoy lower rates owing to the fact that the railways can handle timber more economically from the large ports; and whether, in view of recent substantial reductions in the rates for iron, steel, and other materials, hopes of early corresponding reductions in the rates for timber and other materials used in building can be held out?

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply of the 8th instant to the hon. and learned Member for Rushcliffe, of which I am sending him a copy.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport if he is aware that the public travel from Bedlington A pit to Bedlington tor. pit, in Northumberland, on the railway side, and that the engine drivers complain of the great danger of people travelling on this railway; and, if so, will he cause a pass-by to be made so that the public can travel with safety?

I have been asked to reply. This matter has been carefully investigated by the inspectors of mines on more than one occasion at the instance of the National Union of Railwaymen. The colliery company has lighted the whole length of line next to which persons walk, as a safeguard against accident during the hours of darkness; and I am advised there is no evidence sufficient to establish that this siding is now dangerous or defective. This being so, I have no powers to intervene further.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that men have been travelling between these two points for 40 years or more?

I do not know whether the hon. Gentleman means that as an argument for my interfering or not.

I am giving it as information.

asked the Secretary for Mines the number of persons employed in and about the Scottish coal mines during the first three months of the present year, distinguishing between those employed above and below ground and the numbers employed in the same months of the years 1919, 1920, and 1921?

The average number of wage-earners employed in and about Scottish coal mines during the first three months of the year 1922 was 25,100 above ground and 100,900 below ground. Corresponding figures for the year 1919 were '27,100 and 103,600, for the year 1920, 30,600 and 112,200; and for the year 1921, 30,100 and 120,500.

asked the Secretary for Mines the number of fatal and non-fatal accidents that have occurred in the Scottish coal mines during the first three months of the present year, and the number which occurred in the same months of the years 1919, 1920, and 1921?

During the first three months of the year 1922, 41 persons were reported as killed, and 161 as seriously injured by accidents in and about mines and quarries in Scotland. Particulars are not available of the number of persons who sustained minor injuries. Corresponding figures for the year 1919 were, 50 killed and 180 injured; for the year 1920, 49 killed and 157 injured, and for the year 1921, 37 killed and 151 injured.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether to allay the apprehension of many who believe that, under proper supervision, the United Services fund would have benefited to the extent of £13,000,000, whereas it has at present received only about £4,000,000, he will now institute a public inquiry into the trading operations and working of the Navy and Army Canteens Board and Navy, Army and Air Force Institute, and report fully to Parliament the findings and recommendations?

No, Sir; I think we must await the completion of the accounts of the trading in question, which, as my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, are now in course of preparation by Messrs. Deloitte, Plender, Griffiths and Company. In any case the question of the trading of the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes is not relevant, as that organisation did not come into existence until 1st January, 1921. The question of the losses incurred by the Navy and Army Canteen Board in 1919 and 1920 during demobilisation has been dealt with by the Committee presided over by my hon. Friend the Member for the Ecclesall Division of Sheffield which recommended that these losses should be set against the previous profits. I would further add that the payment of about £4,000,000 already made was merely a payment on account.

As four years have now elapsed since any accounts were submitted, when will these accounts be ready for publication?

I have frequently said that no one will be more pleased than I when they are issued.