asked the President of the Board of Trade if large quantities of German hosiery latch-needles are reaching Great Britain through Holland and other countries by parcels post, thus evading Reparations Duty and Safeguarding of Industries Act Duty; and, if so, what measures, if any, does he intend to adopt to protect this important key industry?

I have been asked to reply to this question. I think my hon. Friend is under a misapprehension. The duty imposed on hosiery latch-needles under Part I of the Safeguarding of Industries Act applies to all such needles, from whatever country imported, unless manufactured in and consigned from a part of the Empire. As regards Reparation levy, I may point out that this is not chargeable on all goods of German manufacture, but only on goods first consigned to this country from Germany. It will be appreciated that Reparation levy does not operate as a Protective duty, inasmuch as it should be deducted from the price paid by the British importer.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether aluminium spoons coming from Germany are subject to a duty of 33⅓ per cent. under the Safeguarding of Industries Act, whereas aluminium forks are imported free of duty?

It has been decided not to charge duty upon aluminium spoons as articles of hollow-ware.

The fork is hollow-ware while the spoon is not?

The fork is not, but I think it might very well be argued that the spoon was, but owing to the divorce of the spoon and the fork that would result, it is not proposed to charge on the spoon.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the amount of aluminium hollow-ware imported into this country during the last three months of 1922 and during the corresponding months of 1921, respectively; and the amount of British-made aluminium hollow-ware sold for the home trade during the same periods?

The imports of aluminium hollow-ware (domestic) into the United Kingdom, registered during the three months ended 31st December, 1922, amounted to 288 tons, valued at £43,318, and during the corresponding period of 1921 to 294 tons, valued at £43,550. Figures are not available which would enable me to answer the last part of the question.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the amount of duty collected on aluminium ware as distinct from enamel ware?

The amount of duty collected under Part II of the Safeguarding of Industries Act in respect of aluminium hollow-ware up to and including the 23rd February was £9,690.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he can state exactly what advantages we are now gaining by the most-favoured-nation clauses in our commercial treaties; and whether he will publish a statement comparing these gains with our losses in other ways?

The most favoured-nation clause in our commercial treaties is of substantial benefit to British commerce. Many foreign countries apply two or more different Customs rates to goods imported from different countries, and this clause secures for us the lowest of these rates. I am afraid I do not follow the last part of the question.

What are our gains under this arrangement?

Our gain is that wherever we have got a commercial treaty with a most-favoured-nation clause, we get charged the lowest duty charged to any country.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether it is proposed to introduce legislation amending the Merchant Shipping Act affecting the administration of mercantile marine offices; and whether, before such step is taken, the various interests concerned will be consulted?

Apart from the question of increasing the fees charged, there is no proposal before the Board of Trade at the present moment for amending the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Acts relating to the administration of mercantile marine offices.

Having regard to the proposed imposition of further fees calculated to be a burden on the shipping industry, will the right hon. Gentleman consult the interests likely to be affected?

I have already been in full consultation with the interests likely to be affected.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that the importation of German brushes into this country has increased from 686,570 dozens in 1914 to 1,263,011 dozens in 1922, and in view of the position of the brush industry in this country, he will introduce legislation making it compulsory for brushes to be indelibly marked with their country of origin before being landed in this country?

The question of the marking of imported goods is under consideration in connection with the Merchandise Marks Bill, which I hope to introduce this Session.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what are the existing tariffs on British lace imported into France and Germany, respectively, and how do they compare with the duties in 1913; whether he has information showing that, owing to the steady depreciation of the franc, French lace now enters this country at less than the cost price in Great Britain; and whether the Government has any proposals for rectifying the exchanges between this country and France?

I will send the hon. and gallant Member a statement giving the information asked for with regard to the duties. I have received representations to the effect suggested in the second part of the question. I am sure the hon. Member will appreciate that it is not possible for this country to control the exchanges of other countries.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the depreciation of the franc acts as a bounty on French goods and is therefore a serious aggravation of unemployment at home, and what what steps does he propose to take?

As to the hon. Gentleman's question—what steps can be taken to rectify the exchange—I do not know of any steps.

I beg to give notice that I will raise this question on the Adjournment on this day week.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received reports from officials in his Department respecting the difficulty experienced by seamen in obtaining employment owing to the National Maritime decision that no seamen will be employed unless those associated with that body; whether he is aware that disturbances have taken place at mercantile marine offices and aboard vessels when crews are being engaged; and if he will hold an inquiry into the matter?

Representations have been made to the Board of Trade as to the system under which men are selected for employment on board ship, and these are being considered, but no reports have been received as to disturbances having taken place at mercantile marine offices.

Having regard to the fact that the Mercantile Marine Section of the right hon. Gentleman's Department are represented as custodians of shipping interests, will he consider the advisability of protecting the interests of seamen?

I am always protecting the interests of seamen, but I do not prejudge matters brought to my notice on ex-parte statements before I have looked into them.

asked the President of the Board of Trade, whether he can state which other British firms are being supplied with German reparation dyes for re-sale apart from the general scheme of distribution which is conducted by the reparation department of the British Dyestuffs Corporation; whether he will give the names and quantities of such German dyes; and whether these dyes are being sold under their original names and description or under the names of the English firms?

No reparation dyestuffs other than indigo are being sold to any firms for re-sale in this country, apart from the general scheme of distribution to which the hon. Member refers. The last two parts of the question consequently do not arise.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will state the terms upon which several hundred tons of German indigo, 20 per cent. sent to this country as reparations, have been handed over for re-sale to the British Dyestuffs Corporation; whether these goods have been sold outright to the British Dyestuffs Corporation, and, if so, at what price; whether the British Dyestuffs Corporation, in executing orders for their customers, are sending out approximately half the quantity ordered in German indigo and half in indigo of their own manufacture; and whether it is the policy of the Government to encourage the British Dyestuffs Corporation to devote its energies to the merchanting of German dyes and so to defeat the object of the policy of protection for the dye industry?

The supply of indigo to which the hon. Member refers was requisitioned from Germany in pursuance of an arrangement between the principal consumers of indigo in this country and the British Dyestuffs Corporation, who are the only British manufacturers of that product. The quantities received are sold to the Corporation at the prices credited to Germany (which vary with each consignment) plus expenses of importation. Under the terms of the arrangement the British Dyestuffs Corporation are delivering against all United Kingdom orders for synthetic indigo, two-thirds British make and one-third German make, at an equalised price. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Can the right hon. Gentleman state the amount of dyes purchased by genuine English companies from the date the control was taken off the German dye industry?

Obviously I cannot do that.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the recent failure of K. H. Kabbur and Company, Manchester; whether the Central Importing Agency of the Board of Trade are creditors to the extent of £50,992 for dyestuffs; whether he is aware that it is a rule of the Board of Trade that no dye-stuffs should be delivered by the Central Importing Agency until cash has been first received; and whether he can explain why this rule, which has been strictly enforced in transactions with the largest buyers in Great Britain, has been relaxed in this case?

The question appears to be based on a misapprehension. The creditors of Messrs. Kabbur and Company for the sum mentioned are Messrs. Fairclough, Dodd and Jones, the principals of the Central Importing Agency, and not the Board of Trade, who were not in any way concerned in the transactions to which the debt relates. The remainder of the question consequently does not arise.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what the present staff of the Food Control Board consists of; what is its cost; and when it is proposed to close this Department entirely?

The accounting and clerical staff of the Food Department, including the Royal Commission on Wheat Supplies, at present comprises 129 persons at a monthly cost of £3,194. The staff will be reduced to 73 in April, and the Department will be closed entirely as soon as a number of claims in which litigation is pending have been disposed of.

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman give us a more definite reply as to when the Department will be abolished?

I am afraid that I cannot give a more definite reply. It is impossible to say when the litigation will be over, and it would be very wrong at this stage to close down.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War what was the number of officers employed at the War Office on 1st March, 1923; and what was the number on the 1st March, 1914?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he can give the number of officers employed in the War Office on 1st February, 1914, and on 1st February, 1923, respectively, and, of the latter, the number employed in connection with the distribution of medals?

I will answer these two questions together, the comparison suggested in both being substantially the same. The number of officers at the War Office on the 1st March, 1923, will be 312, including 38 officers borrowed from their regiments. This number will be reduced to 297 by 1st April next, and the forthcoming Estimates allow for further considerable reductions in the course of the year. The number at present employed in connection with the distribution of medals is nine. The number of officers employed in 1914 was 174.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War the number of finance officials employed in the War Office and in the commands of the United Kingdom, respectively, on the 1st February, 1914, and on the 1st February, 1923, respectively?

The number of officials employed in the War Office Finance Department at the dates named was

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the whole of the £4,300,000 allowed for the cost of the Disposal and Liquidation Commission for the year 1922–23 will be required?

The answer is in the negative. The expenditure is likely to be about £500,000 less than the Estimate.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that during the last few weeks a large quantity of driftwood has been washed ashore and has been strewn about the coast line, roughly in the vicinity of Kenfig River and Southern-down; that, upon examination, the pieces of timber and seaweed were found to be for the most part covered with crude oil; that, after local investigation, it has been ascertained that the oil does not come from the local docks, but that oil steamers are in the habit of having their tanks cleaned somewhere in the Bristol Channel; and whether steps can be taken to prohibit oil tankers and other vessels from discharging crude oil inside certain areas?

I have no information as to the particular cases mentioned in the question, and should be glad if the hon. and gallant Member will send me particulars. The Oil in Navigable Waters Act, 1922, which came into operation at the beginning of this year, prohibits the discharge of oil or oily water within territorial limits.

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiry, not only in South Wales, but also in Somerset, especially at the watering places, as to the effect of this oil discharge?

If my hon. Friend will send me particulars as to where I can best make inquiry, I will see that inquiry is made.

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire from the Swansea Corporation?

If the hon. Member sends me particulars of anything which he considers a breach of the law, I will have inquiry made.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he can state the total number of British merchant seamen who were on vessels torpedoed in the late War; how this total compares with the number who have put forward claims for reparation; whether he will analyse the claims received by the Reparations Claims Department to show how many of them have been sent in by merchant seamen; if he will state for how long the fact was advertised, and how and where; if and when time for sending in claims has expired; and how many applications he has received from merchant seamen who learned of the announcement too late to be of use.

As the answer is rather long, I will, with the permission of the hon. Member, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

Many merchant seamen serving on British vessels during the War were aliens, and it is not possible, without detailed examination of the Board of Trade records, to say how many of the seamen on torpedoed vessels were British nationals. In the circumstances the desired comparison cannot be made.

32,589 notifications of claim by merchant seamen have been received by the Reparation Claims Department, and in 26,140 of these cases, including cases of alien seamen, completed forms have been received.

The time for sending in claims not previously notified to some Government Department expired on 15th February, 1922, and the time for sending in claims notified to some Government Department prior to 15th February, 1922, expired on 30th December, 1922. An advertisement relating to the 15th February was inserted in newspapers published in different parts of the United Kingdom on the 24th December, 1921, and an advertisement relating to the 30th December, 1922, was inserted in similar newspapers on the 1st December, 1922.

Some 3,400 belated notifications of claim have been received in the Reparation Claims Department, mostly in respect of damage to merchant seamen.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is able to assure the House that all outstanding difficulties with regard to the management of the British Empire Exhibition have been removed, and that there is every prospect of co-operation from all quarters to ensure the success of this exhibition?

I hope and believe that the steps which have been taken to give effect to the recommendations contained in the Report of the Secretary of the Overseas Trade Department have removed all difficulties in regard to the management of the exhibition, and that there is every prospect of whole-hearted support from all quarters for this great project. May I add that I think all concerned are indebted to my hon. Friend for his thorough investigation and Report.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a pledge was given that the half battalion of the 7/9th Royal Scots should be permitted to retain the old uniform of the old 7th; and why this pledge has not been fulfilled?

I am aware that permission was originally given for the companies of the amalgamated battalion which respectively represented the two former battalions to continue to wear the distinctive uniforms of those battalions. I understand, however, that the 32 members of the old 7th Battalion who joined the amalgamated battalion have each individually expressed a preference to adopt the kilted uniform of the 9th Battalion, and this course has been followed accordingly.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the late Secretary for War gave a specific pledge, on the occasion of the amalgamation of these battalions, that the old uniform would be continued?

I took only the terms of the hon. and gallant Member's question, which mentions that the men should be "permitted" to wear the uniform. They have been "permitted," because they have been asked. The pledge was not that they would be forced to adopt that uniform against their will.

Was not the pledge that they should retain the distinctive uniform of the 7th Battalion?

I replied to the terms of the hon. and gallant Member's question, but I will look into the matter again. I must say that, however much weight I attach to the hon. and gallant Member's views, I am forced to attach even more weight to the opinions of the people who have to wear these uniforms.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he will state the total number of officers on the strength of the Aldershot Command now and in 1913?

I regret that this information was inadvertently omitted from my answer of 19th instant. The figures, exclusive in both cases of the officers on the staff, are, in 1913, 1,008, now 957. These two figures were included in and the staff figures were excluded from, the figures of total strength which I gave on 19th instant.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the signal training centre is still located at Maresfield Park, Sussex; what is the cost of maintaining the centre at that place; and whether more suitable and economical quarters will be looked for?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part, I would refer the hon. Member to pages 50 and 51 of the current Army Estimates. In reply to the third part, I can only say at present that the question of the future permanent location of the school of signals is closely engaging attention from the point of view which the hon. Member suggests.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he will state the total number of officers, non-commissioned officers, and men in the office of the British Military Attaché in Paris; the ranks and total pay and allowances of the above; the corresponding figures for 1913; and the total number of officers, non-commissioned officers, and men at present employed in France and on what duties?

There are now, including the Military Attaché and his assistant, nine officers and nine other ranks and civilian subordinates in France. Before the War there was one Military Attaché.

As the details of the full reply make it rather long, I will, with the hon. and gallant Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

What are the warlike operations in contemplation in France which justify the maintenance of so large a staff?

Following are the details supplied:

The number of officers employed in the office of the Military Attaché in Paris is two, namely, the Military Attaché, a major-general, and the Assistant Military Attaché, a brevet lieutenant-colonel. No other ranks are employed. The total pay and allowances of the two officers amount to £4,168 per annum at the present time, and amounted to £1,165 in 1913, when there was one Military Attaché only. The greater part of the Military Attaché's time is taken up with his duties as Chief of the British Section of the Allied Military Committee of Versailles. The reply to the last part of the question is that, excluding the Military Attaché's office, there are three officers and three other ranks with the Allied Military Committee. One of the officers and one soldier leave at the end of March. There are also four officers and six civilian clerks with the Claims Commission.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War what was the age of the bulk of the small-arms ammunition thrown up for destruction since the Armistice; what were the principal defects; and whether it is anticipated that small-arms ammunition at present in stock is likely to deteriorate in a similar manner and become unserviceable wihin a similar period of time?

Most of the ammunition in question was made during the War. Its principal defects were imperfections in the metal of the cases, and deterioration due to damp. These defects are inseparable from the conditions of manufacture and storage respectively, which necessarily obtained during the War. With regard to the last part of the question, it is probable that some of the present stocks, most of which were manufactured and stored during the War, will become unserviceable before they can be used for training purposes, but there is no reason to suppose that the small arms ammunition which is now being manufactured and stored under peace conditions will do so.

Will the hon. Gentleman consider, before ammunition is destroyed, the question of whether it might not be issued to rifle associations throughout the country?

The difficulty is that it is impossible to say if ammunition is going wrong until tests, climatic and otherwise, show that it has become dangerous.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that under Army Order 325, of 1919, retired warrant and non-commissioned officers of the Army who volunteered for service during the Great War and subsequently attained commissioned rank were not assessed for pension on the commissioned officers' scale; that retired warrant and non-commissioned officers of the Royal Marines, under exactly similar circumstances, in virtue of an Admiralty Regulation, received the pension of the commissioned rank subsequently attained; and will the necessary steps be taken to have this anomaly adjusted and this grievance removed?

Yes, Sir; I am aware of the circumstances, but I am unable to hold out the hope of action in the matter. In settling the new scales for Army and Navy, regard was paid to the general desirability of assimilation. As, however, the circumstances of the two Services differ so much, complete identity cannot be expected.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether British troops in Cologne are now paid in sterling; and what has been the loss to the British Exchequer during the year 1922 on account of the payment of these troops in German marks?

The British troops on the Rhine are paid in the local German currency, in accordance with the usual rule for troops at stations abroad. After very full consideration of the question in all its bearings, the balance of advantage has been found to lie in maintaining the rule. Until August, 1922, marks were requisitioned from the German Government without payment. The net loss on purchased marks from that date to 31st December last, owing to the difference between the rates of purchase and the rates at which they were issued to the troops, was £3,300. It is proposed to resume the requisitioning of marks.

Is it legal to pay our troops in German marks and debit their balances in this country in sterling; and should it not be at the option of the soldier to receive his pay either in sterling or in marks, as is the case in the French and American Armies?

I must have notice of a question dealing with the legal position with regard to that matter.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to a statement in Signor Nitti's Decadence of Europe that the municipalities in the occupied territory are compelled to supply German women, to maintain brothels, and to cover the expenses appertaining to them; and whether any such arrangements are made in the British occupied territory?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative and to the latter part in the negative. All brothels in the occupied territory are out of bounds to the troops.

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman give me an equally explicit denial in regard to the whole of the occupied territory, or does his denial refer specifically to our area?

I have no knowledge of the rest of the area.

asked the Prime Minister under what agreement the occupied territory in Germany is divided between the Allies; and whether he can publish the document laying down the boundaries?

The occupied territory in Germany was divided between the Allies by Marshal Foch in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, the Allied Armies on the Western Front. In making this division Marshal Foch took due account of the wishes of the Allied Governments concerned. The original distribution of Allied troops has since been amended from time to time. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Is it true that we have conceded another small railway to the French since the answer given by the Prime Minister the other day?

No.

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to a speech by the French Ambassador on 14th February last in which he publicly opposed the policy of the Government of the country to which he has been accredited; and whether he has taken, or proposes to take, any steps in the matter?

I presume the hon. Member is referring to the speech delivered by the French Ambassador at a luncheon given by the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce on the 14th instant. His Excellency on that occasion explained and defended in a perfectly correct and courteous manner the policy of the country which he represents. I am aware of no grounds for taking objection to the speech or for His Majesty's Government intervening in the matter.

( by Private Notice ) asked the Prime Minister whether his attention—[HON. MEMBERS: "Speak up!"]—has been called to the declaration of the President of the French Republic at the end of last week in reference to the French invasion of the Ruhr district, that France will allow nothing to turn her from her object; and the declaration of the French Prime Minister that France will not leave her hold until the debt has been met; and whether His Majesty's Government has ascertained from the French Government what is the object of France in continuing to invade the Ruhr district, and what is the amount of her debt which France requires to be met as a condition of her withdrawal?

What about our debt to Austria?

There is not, I think, anything new in either of these statements, and I have nothing to add to what I have already stated in debate on this subject.

May I ask the Prime Minister whether he has on any occasion asked France what is the amount of the debt which France requires to be met as a condition of her withdrawal, and whether he has ever made any statement to the House on the subject?

Yes. I have. In answer to a question some weeks ago, I stated what the French stated as their reason for going into the Ruhr. The amount of the debt presumably is the figures arranged in 1921.

Are the figures referred to—

£6,600,000,000!

—the figures which the Prime Minister has declared to be impossible of collection?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the total amount and value of the reparations made by Germany to this country up to the present time, distinguishing between the amount paid in cash and the value of the ships, etc., handed over?

With the hon. Member's permission, I will circulate the answer to this question, which is a long one, in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

As at 30th April, 1922, the main items stood as follows:

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the very valuable help given to the country during the late War by the cadet organisations in all parts of the country, as, for example, the second cadet battalion of the Essex regiment, which sent into the Army nearly 800 trained Essex lads during the course of the War; and is he prepared to reconsider the decision to abolish the cadet grant, which would certainly have the effect of disbanding many of the cadet corps?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he has received communications from the Monmouthshire Territorial Army Association with reference to the withdrawal of assistance to cadet organisations from the 31st March next; whether he is aware that this withdrawal will entail the disbandment of territorial cadets in the county; and whether he will withdraw such Regulation?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the withdrawal of the grant of 6s. per annum per cadet of the Territorial Army, the War Office will continue the loan of camp equipment to the cadet force; is he aware that cadet units pay transport to and fro for such equipment and are liable to make good all deficiencies; and whether, in consequence, the only expense to the taxpayer is the time employed in issuing and taking in such equipment?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the very small per capita allowance granted by the War Office to cadet organisations and the practical impossibility of units securing efficient camp equipment except at prohibitive cost, he will reconsider the decision to withdraw the free issue of equipment for summer camps?

In view of the need of confining Army expenditure to actual military necessities, I can hold out no expectation that the decision referred to in the questions can be varied. I hope, however, that this decision, which has been arrived at with the greatest regret, will not result in the disbanding of cadet corps, to whose valuable work I gladly bear testimony, and in order to assist them in their present difficult situation a loan of Army camp equipment will be made to a limited number of units for the camping season of 1923. I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a statement of the conditions of this loan, which it should be understood is strictly limited to the present year. These conditions involve no charges on the cadet units other than for transport and insurance, but I would observe, regarding Question No. 36, that the cost of issue and receipt of the equipment is not the only charge borne by Army funds in the matter. The cost of washing, repairs and general depreciation will also be borne by Army funds, and will, I am advised, amount to an appreciable sum.

Would the hon. and gallant Gentleman say what he means by a limited number of cadets?

The hon. and gallant Gentleman will see the details in the statement that is being circulated. The units which received camp equipment last year, provided they send in a certificate that they are not less than thirty in numbers, will be allowed the same privileges.

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman consider that the interests both of economy and efficiency would be better served if the cut were made from the top instead of from the bottom?

We cannot argue the question now.

What economy does the hon. and gallant Gentleman expect?

An economy of over £40,000.

Following in the statement promised:

The following special conditions have been laid down for the issue on loan of Army camp equipment to certain cadet units for 1923 only:

( a ) The cadet unit must have held a camp during 1922, and must certify at the time of forwarding the indent for camp equipment that its strength is not less than thirty cadets.

( b ) A cadet unit wishing to draw camp equipment must at its own expense cover all equipment drawn by them under an insurance policy covering all losses from fire, storm, transit, handling, accidental damage, to be taken out by the cadet unit in the name of the Secretary of State for

( c ) Cadet units will be permitted to draw camp equipment up to the scale laid down in Appendix I, Cadet Regulations, and should forward indents to Chief Ordnance Officer of area at least two months before the date of the camp. That officer will price the equipment indented for at full vocabulary rates, for the purpose of enabling the Officer Commanding unit to effect the insurance policy referred to in ( b ) above. All indents must be accompanied by the certificate mentioned under ( a ).

( d ) (i) As a further condition, Officer Commanding cadet unit will lodge with the Command Paymaster, as security, cash or banker's guarantee equivalent to 1 per cent. of the total value of equipment indented for as priced by the Chief Ordnance Officer of area.

( d ) (ii) This deposit will be held as guarantee for payment in full of any charges arising by reason of losses or damage not caused by fair wear and tear (as laid down in paragraph 20 ( b ) Cadet Regulations), which prove to be irrecoverable under the insurance policy.

( d ) (iii) This deposit will be refunded in full on the Chief Ordnance Officer of area certifying to the Command Pay-master that there are no charges against the unit under paragraph 20 ( b ), Cadet Regulations.

( e ) Chief Ordnance Officers of areas will ensure that no equipment is issued to any cadet unit until they are informed by Command Paymasters concerned that the insurance policy under paragraph ( b ), and the deposit under ( d )(i), have been received for that unit.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the West Lancashire Territorial Force Association is at present seeking permission from the War Office to acquire headquarters office accommodation in Liverpool, that the said association holds an option on the premises in Lime Street, Liverpool, at present occupied by the Hotel St. George Company; that the building occupied by the said hotel contains over 100 rooms and is held on lease from the Corporation of Liverpool, with only 30 years to run; that the Corporation of Liverpool have stated that in no circumstances will they agree to put the property in full lease, as the site is scheduled for street improvement as soon as the lease expires; and that the office accommodation required by the Territorial Force Association is at most about a dozen rooms; and whether the Secretary of State for War will take steps to prevent the purchase of a building of this size and with the above-mentioned short lease, considering the very limited use for which it is really required?

I am aware of this proposal, but the West Lancashire Territorial Association have more in view than the provision of association offices. The scheme includes extensive social accommodation for territorials in Liverpool and also accommodation for the staff of the West Lancashire Territorial Division and West Lancashire Area. The Association are satisfied that the scheme can be financed without additional cost to Army funds, and I see no reason to take the steps suggested by the hon. Member.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware of the fact that this is one of only two residential hotels resorted to by middle-class business men who cannot afford to pay the fees of the higher hotels, and that the street is wider than any street anticipated in Liverpool? In view of the circumstances, will he reconsider the matter?

I am afraid I have considered the matter only from the point of view of Army votes, and from that point of view, and that alone, I say that we have every reason to think that this scheme will be a benefit.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he will state the number of men of over 60 and 65 years of age, and of more than 20 years' service, who have been dis- charged from the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich, since the date of the Armistice?

The figures in question are:

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether it is intended to reappoint at an early date the Select Committee to inquire into the trading of the Navy and Army Canteen Board and the circumstances under which the Board conducted the liquidation of the business of the Expeditionary Force canteens, and the losses occasioned by the operations of the Board?

I will endeavour to ascertain whether there is any general desire for the re-appointment of this Committee. If there is, my Noble Friend the Secretary of State will readily agree so far as the War Office is concerned.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that a resolution has been passed by the Penmaenmawr Urban District Council urging that a real, thorough and satisfactory investigation of the United Services Fund in the Welsh area, as far as the Penmaenmawr district is concerned, be at once undertaken; and if he will extend the inquiry so that it may comprise the whole administration of the fund?

No, Sir; I cannot ascertain that any such petition has reached the War Office. But, as has been explained to the House before, the United Services Fund was formed by Royal Charter and its council of management is not accountable to the War Office. It is not, therefore, in my power, in any event, to promise the inquiry suggested.

Am I to understand that, in spite of the widespread anxiety as to the administration of this fund, the Government will accept no responsibility in the matter at all?

Parliament has handed over, by an Act passed last Session, considerable funds from the surplus of the canteens' profits to this organisation. Under present arrangements the War Office has no control.

Is it not within the power of His Majesty to order an inquiry into any institution formed by Royal Charter, at any time?

Of course, it is within the power of His Majesty, but it is not a Departmental matter, and if there is any general dissatisfaction—of which we have so far no evidence—the proper course is to put down a question to the Prime Minister.

Would not the hon. and gallant Gentleman approach the Prime Minister on the subject with a view to having an inquiry held?

Not until I get evidence that there is any dissatisfaction. This is the first time it has been brought to my notice.

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health whether he is aware that on 15th February last a trawler was working inside the three-mile limit about four miles east from St. Abb's Head and that the boat crossed the nets of a drifter, doing considerable damage; and what steps does he propose to take to prevent trawling within the three-mile limit?

I am informed by the Fishery Board for Scotland that no complaint regarding the case referred to has so far been made to them or to the District Fishery Officer by the drift-net fishermen concerned. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer to the reply given to a question by the hon. and gallant Member for Caithness and Sutherland on 14th December last in which it was stated that six vessels are already employed in fishery protection duties and that the funds available do not permit of any addition to the number. It would assist the Fishery Board and the commanders of the fishery cruisers in carrying out the patrol of the inshore waters if all such complaints were reported direct to them without delay.

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that the speed of the vessels employed on fishery protection duty is sufficient, and if not, will he make recommendations accordingly?

It is obviously the case that, if a report is made in the first place to Members of this House it subsequently has to be sent back to the commanders of these patrol vessels, which makes the speed desired much greater than if cases were reported direct to the commander of the vessel concerned.

Is it not a fact that the Secretary for Scotland contemplated an inquiry into the question of illegal trawling all round the coast of Scotland? When is that inquiry to be instituted?

I do not think that arises out of this question, which concerns a specific case of trawling—a specific case not reported to the officers concerned.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that illegal trawling is taking place all round the coast of Scotand, and that the fishermen of Scotland are not by any means satisfied that the patrol against illegal trawling is sufficient?

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health what are the boundaries of the district covered by the application of the Port Seton Harbour trustees in which the volume of unemployment is deemed insufficient to warrant the issue of a certificate; whether the neighbouring town of Musselburgh is included; and, if not, will he, should the volume of unemployment in that town prove to be sufficient, cause the decision of the Unemployment Grants Committee to be reconsidered?

I am informed that the Minister of Labour, in declining to issue a certificate that a state of serious unemployment existed at Cockenzie, which was the site of the works proposed by the Port Seton Harbour trustees, had regard not only to the unemployment in Cockenzie itself, but also to the volume of unemployment in Musselburgh. The last part of the question does not therefore arise.

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health whether, in view of the increasing unemployment in the fishing industry due to the inability of fishermen to replace without financial assistance their damaged gear, the Government will consider the advisability of making loans for this purpose under Section 32 of the Crofters' Holdings (Scotland) Act, 1886?

In view of the necessity for restricting Government expenditure, my Noble Friend regrets that he can hold out no hope of loans for the purpose referred to being made under the powers contained in the Act mentioned.

Seeing that the distress among fishermen is admitted and that the Scottish Office is unable to move in the direction of securing a grant, through the Unemployment Grants Committee, is there no other way in which they are prepared to help?

I am afraid the question comes down to a matter of the funds available. That, as my hon. Friend will realise, is not a matter solely for the Scottish Office; other Departments have to be considered.

Does not the hon. and gallant Gentleman think he could provide an answer to that question by granting Home Rule to Scotland?

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health whether he is aware that certain small-holders in the Highlands of Scotland who are unable to purchase their holdings are threatened with eviction within the next few months; that many more resumption orders are likely to be granted by the Land Court before the beginning of next Session; that feelings of alarm and insecurity are consequently spreading throughout the Highlands; and whether an assurance can yet be given that the Government will take action without delay with the object of securing these families in the possession of their homes?

My Noble Friend is aware that in a limited number of cases applications for resumption of the kind referred to in the first part of the question have been made to the Land Court. He is not aware of the foundation for the suggestion made in the second part of the question, but he recognises that anxiety is felt and while he cannot at this stage give any assurance as to the introduction of legislation, he hopes to reach an early decision with regard to the difficult questions involved.

Was not the Act of 1911 meant to give these men security of tenure and, seeing that the Act has failed in that direction, will not the Government consider some legislation to enable this object to be achieved now?

The answer I gave to the hon. Member for Caithness and Sutherland (Sir A. Sinclair) was that the Secretary for Scotland was considering the matter and hoped to be able to give a decision on the difficult questions involved. There are many questions involved and they are not as simple as the query of the hon. and gallant Member for Aberdeen and Kincardine (Major M. Wood) would seem to indicate.

When are we likely to get the result of this investigation? Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the question of security of tenure lies at the base of the whole system of land holding in North Scotland?

That raises another question which it is difficult to answer.

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health in what classes of cases of small landholders in Scotland the Treasury have agreed to the revision of the charges for interest and repayment of loans for build- ings; and under what procedure and terms of reference the questions is to be referred to the Scottish Land Court?

Review will be offered, generally speaking, in the case of holders who were settled by the Board of Agriculture during the period from Martinmas, 1918, to Martinmas, 1922, inclusive, and for whom buildings were erected by the Board during the period of high prices then prevailing. The procedure and terms of reference have not yet been finally settled, but they will be made known as soon as practicable.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the extreme urgency of this matter, which has been under consideration now for several months, and is it not possible to have the terms of reference to the Land Court adjusted immediately?

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health whether it is proposed, in pursuance of the Licensing (Scotland) Act, 1903, to transfer the powers of the burgh licensing court to the county court; and whether the powers vested in the Secretary for Scotland are likely to be exercised shortly?

There is, of course, no question of a general transfer of the powers of burgh licensing courts to county licensing courts. An Order will shortly be made under Section 10 (2) of the Licensing (Scotland) Act, 1903, declaring the population of each county, burgh and licensing district according to the Census of 1921. This Order will take effect on and after the day of the general half-yearly meetings of licensing courts in April, 1923. Certain alterations in licensing courts and courts of appeal, consequential on increase or decrease of population, will then fall to be made in accordance with the provisions of the Act. In some cases owing to changes in population figures burghs which have hitherto had separate licensing courts will cease to have them, while in other cases burghs will gain separate licensing courts.

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health the total amount now being paid weekly to unemployed building trade workers by parish councils on able-bodied relief at the present time?

I regret that the Scottish Board of Health have no information in their possession relating to the weekly amount of relief being paid by parish councils in Scotland to any particular class of able-bodied unemployed. In order to obtain the relative figures for building trade operatives, it would be necessary to call for a special return, but the hon. Member will no doubt recognise that, having regard to the present pressure of work on parish councils and their staffs, it is desirable to restrict the number of special returns as far as possible.

In view of the fact that the parish councils have tabulated the occupation and work of each individual who receives relief from this fund, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman not, in view of the need of housing, ask for a return of the expense?

It is, as the hon. Member must realise, one of the complaints of the local authorities that they are being continually bombarded by requests for returns from the central authority. If the hon. Member desires to press it, I will be very pleased to discuss it with him afterwards.

As these figures would bring home the need for building trade workers being employed, and so relieve the parish of the expense, the local authorities would be only too pleased to supply this information.

asked the Under-Secretary for the Scottish Board of Health if a prisoner in Scotland, who has been sentenced to any punishment while in prison for an offence while serving his term of imprisonment, is entitled to any appeal beyond the governor of the prison; and, if he has, what court of appeal has the prisoner?

Any prisoner is entitled to appeal to the Prison Commissioners or to the Secretary for Scotland against a punishment awarded by the prison governor.

In view of the fact that the local authorities and the county authorities appoint visiting committees, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman not undertake to give a right to the prisoner to appeal to the visiting committee?

That is an entirely new point. The question is simply to what court of appeal the prisoner has the right to appeal at present, and I have answered that point.

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health whether, in view of the approaching herring fishing season in Shetland, the Secretary for Scotland can give an early decision on the application now before him for the cancellation of whaling licences?

My Noble Friend hopes to give his decision at an early date.

asked the Under-Secretary to the Scottish Board of Health if he is aware that persons who are called upon to serve as jurors in Scotland have to pay their own expenses in the performance of this important public duty and, if they are wage-earners, are forced to lose wages during the period of their service; that there is power under the existing law to authorise payment of such expenses and to make good such loss of wages; and will he take steps to put these powers into operation?

I am aware that service on a jury may cause expense and loss of wages. In civil cases a fixed allowance is paid to each juror under Statute, at the expense of litigants, and in the case of fatal accident inquiries, jurors receive out of public funds a fee of 5s. per day and travelling expenses. There is no authority for any payment in criminal cases.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that these jurors suffer a financial loss? Cannot he take steps by Order or otherwise to have this corrected?

I have just given the answer that these are fixed allowances which my Noble Friend has no power to vary.

I am not doubting that they are fixed allowances, but is there not power to have them altered?

That would require legislation.

asked the Prime Minister the total sum owing by the French Government to this country, including all loans and merchandise, munitions, and supplies of all kinds furnished by the British Government to the French Government?

The total sum, including accrued interest, is approximately £610,000,000 sterling.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the United States has received any interest on the French indebtedness?

I believe some payments were made in 1919 in respect of War Debt, and that interest is being paid on certain obligations in respect of surplus war material bought by France. So far as I am aware, interest has not been paid on French War Debt to the United States Government in the last three years.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether interest is being paid on the debt due to this country from Czechoslovakia; and whether any arrangements have been made for its redemption?

Interest is being paid on the Relief Bonds for £461,564 issued by the Government of Czechoslovakia to this country and on the advance, originally £1,901,081, for the purchase of flour. The Relief Bonds are repayable on 1st January, 1925. Of the advance for the purchase of flour, the sum of £1,000,000 has already been repaid, and the balance will be repaid in 1923–24.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the aggregate payments by Great Britain for interest and sinking fund will amount to at the end of 62 years if the projected arrangement for interest and sinking fund on its American debt is carried out at an average exchange of 4·68 dollars and at 4·86 dollars?

On the basis of a 62 year term, the payments would be an immediate cash payment of $4,128,085, an annuity of $161,000,000 for 10 years, an annuity of $184,000,000 for 50 years, and a final payment of $118,481,330. These would aggregate £2,246,000,000 at par and 4 per cent. more at 4·68. But these figures have no meaning except as relating to a 62 year term; if we use the option to pay more speedily the aggregate is reduced.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what form these payments will take?

That is just one of the points I have to consider.

With regard to the latter part of the question in reference to the interest, can the right hon. Gentleman tell us the amount of accumulated interest on the debt due to America?

If the hon. Member will put a question down, I will be very glad to give him that information.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if, in relation to the dollar, the interest is to fluctuate with the value of the dollar as between sterling and the dollar?

No; it is the dollar that fluctuates.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, having regard to the depleted condition of both the British and Free State Treasuries and to the fact that the Irish Free State is commencing its existence with no national debt or contribution to the Imperial Exchequer, he was able to arrange with the President of Dail Eireann during his recent visit that a loan should be raised by the Government of the Irish Free State secured on Free State Customs and Excise for the purpose of restoring solvency to the Free State Government, and also enabling it to pay the awards for compensation held by British subjects domiciled in the Free State?

No, Sir. I did not think it necessary or desirable to propose any such arrangement as that suggested in the question, which appears to be based upon assumptions which I cannot accept. I understand that the Free State Government have, so far, been able to meet their expenditure out of revenue. Whether they will find it necessary to raise a loan to provide for compensation payments or for any other purposes, and, if so, on what terms, I am not in a position to say.

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman had no conversation with the President of the Dail on the question of finance when he came over here recently?

I think it means nothing but what is in the answer.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether it is proposed to make any alteration in the statutory contribution of Northern Ireland to Imperial Services in consequence of the establishment of the Irish Free State?

By agreement with the Government of Northern Ireland a Committee has been appointed under the chairmanship of Lord Colwyn to advise whether in view of the ratification of the Free State Constitution any alteration is needed in the present scale of contribution of Northern Ireland to the cost of Imperial Services.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has in his possession the total amount awarded by British courts of justice for damage to property in Ireland prior to 11th July, 1921; whether he is aware that of this large sum less than £600,000 has been paid to date, and that in consequence British subjects domiciled in the Irish Free State have, in some cases, been without the compensation to which they are entitled for as much as five years; and will he say what pressure has been brought on the Free State Government to settle promptly such awards when they have been re-investigated, in view of the hardship which the delay is entailing on these British subjects domiciled iin the Irish Free State?

In reply to the first two parts of the question, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply which I gave to a question addressed to me by him on the 20th instant. In reply to the third part, I have no reason to suppose that there is now undue delay on the part of the Free State Government in paying the awards of the Compensation (Ireland) Commission, taking into account the great complexity arising out of the assignments and charges on and other dealings with the decrees or claims giving rise to the awards. Representations were made to the Free State Governor on this question at the recent Treasury Conference with Free State Ministers. I would remind the House that it is open to any person having a valid award for compensation who is suffering hardship owing to delay in dealing therewith to apply to the Colonial Office for an advance on the security of his award.

Will the hon. Gentleman tell me this: Why has the Free State Government paid the rich insurance companies the sum of £500,000 and has not paid the smaller awards?

I have no knowledge of that.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the Treasury Minute issued on 26th June, 1922, regarding the repayment of loans to the Local Loans Fund will compel public utility (housing) societies who are selling their houses to the tenants, in accordance with the recommendations of the Committee on National Economy, to repay the loan at a heavy premium and not at par, as was the plain intention of the Public Utility (Housing) Societies (Sale of Houses) Regulations, 1920; and whether the matter will be reconsidered?

In the special cases of sales made by public utility societies with the approval of the Ministry of Health, while the full price of the stock cancelled by the repayment has to be made good to the Local Loans Fund, the societies themselves are only called upon to repay the cash advanced to them.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that public utility (housing) societies who built at the time when the cost of building was highest, have been charged 6½ per cent. interest on first mortgage loan from the Public Works Loan Commissioners, and that in consequence of this and other provisions such scoieties are in danger of liquidation and consequent loss to the Exchequer; and will he look into this matter?

The rate of interest charged to public utility societies borrowing from the Public Works Loan Commissioners is based on the market rate at the time the loan is contracted. I am aware that certain societies who borrowed in 1921 are in a difficult position, but I cannot undertake to lend money at a loss to the Local Loans Fund.

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that public utility soceities were at the time given to understand that they were to have loans at 5½ per cent.?