asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many Consular positions regarded as being in the first grade are not filled at the present time for any reason; and whether, in view of the importance to trade of an effective Consular Service, he proposes to take steps to fill any vacancies?

None of the senior posts in the Consular Service is vacant except one in Turkey, which cannot be filled until political conditions allow of the officer selected proceeding to his post.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the conclusion of peace at Lausanne, it is proposed to reestablish without delay full British diplomatic and consular representation in Turkey, particularly with the object of promoting trade?

Normal diplomatic and consular relations with Turkey will be re-established as soon as the Treaty of Peace comes into full force.

Will the Treaty of Peace be laid before the House for its approval?

The hon. and gallant Gentleman had better put that question to the Prime Minister.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any official knowledge of the present internal state of China; and whether he can state what measures are being taken, if any, for the safeguarding of British citizens domiciled in the Republic and the safeguarding of the property of our nationals?

His Majesty's Government are aware of the disturbed conditions at present obtaining in China, and are doing all that is possible in the circumstances to safeguard British lives and property in that country. His Majesty's Minister at Peking has been authorised in particular to join with his colleagues in pressing for the establishment of a railway force under foreign officers.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Consortium is making, or has made, any efforts to afford financial assistance to China during the present crisis?

I would refer to the answer given on the 14th May to the hon. Member for Wirrall. The Consortium representatives at Peking are at present examining the question of the consolidation of China's existing unsecured obligations, which must be a necessary first step towards the putting in order of Chinese finances. Pending the outcome of this examination, His Majesty's Government deprecate any proposals for making fresh loans to China.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that a good deal has happened since the middle of May, and the position is desperate?

I think that rather reinforces my answer.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is now prepared to recommend that the life of a British passport be increased from two years to a period of five years or longer?

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to his question of 18th June last, to which I have for the moment nothing to add.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that there are now in Egypt a Russian Minister, or Russian Consuls, or Russian representatives who claim to represent the late Tsar's Government; whether these persons are in any way recognised by the Egyptian Government; and whether they are maintained or supported at the expense of the Egyptian or British Governments, either by the provision of accommodation or otherwise?

So far as I am aware, the representative of the late Tsar's Government is still residing in Cairo, but the degree of recognition and the amount of the financial assistance accorded to him by the Egyptian Government are not matters on which I can properly comment, in view of the fact that no funds are supplied and no responsibility in the matter is accepted by His Majesty's Government.

Is he recognised as a Minister by the British authorities in Egypt as holding diplomatic status?

I should require notice of that question. I think not, but I am not certain.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the appeal of the five Egyptians sentenced to death by a military tribunal in Egypt is pending before the Army Council; if so, whether due regard will be had to the reliability or otherwise of the evidence upon which they were convicted; and whether, in the interests of promoting good will in Egypt, full consideration wilil be given to all the circumstances?

No appeal has yet been received, and I am not aware whether the persons referred to are exercising their right of appeal. I can only say, therefore, that in the event of an appeal being received, all due consideration will necessarily be given to it.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many battleships, battle cruisers, light cruisers, ocean-going destroyers, including flotilla leaders, aircraft carriers, and submarines, are in full commission in the Royal Navy, the Royal Japanese Navy, and the French Navy, respectively?

As the reply is in tabular form I will, with the hon. and gallant Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman answer the last part of the question as to battleships?

I think the hon. and gallant Gentleman had better wait till he sees the tabular statement.

Following is the Tabular Statement:

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many destroyers are now completed and how many are building or are to be laid down in the Japanese and British Navies?

Japan has 76 destroyers completed, 12 building, and 21 to be laid down and completed by March, 1928. The British Empire has 183 destroyers built and three building. In addition, there are 16 flotilla leaders completed and two building: The above figures do not include any vessels over 15 years old.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether any of the money voted by Japan for increasing the elevation of the guns of her capital ships has yet been spent; and whether Japan now accepts our view that such action would be contrary to the spirit, if not the letter, of the Washington Treaty?

No money has been voted by Japan specifically for increasing elevation of guns. The sum of 50,000,000 yen (£5,000,000) in round figures has been earmarked for "alterations to capital ships," to be divided between the years 1923 to 1931, the amount to be expended in 1923–24 being 2,259,000 yen. It is understood that the existing capital ships are to be given increased protection against air attack, but the details regarding any further alterations that may be contemplated are not known. It is understood from Press reports that ships are to be taken in hand one at a time and the work is to be completed by 1931. With regard to the second part of the question, the Admiralty has no official information.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can give any particulars as to the number and armaments of the light cruisers now completed in the Japanese and British navies, and how many are building or are to be laid down?

As the reply is a long one in tabular form I will, with my Noble and gallant Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the number of ships in the two Navies?

Yes, Japan—built, 15; building, 8; to be laid down, 6. British Empire—built, 48; building, 4; to be laid down, none.

The reply is as follows: JAPANESE LIGHT CRUISERS. Built number. Building number. To be laid down. Armament. 1 — — 2–6"; 10–4/"; 2–12 pdr.; 3 T. (18"). 3 — — 8–6"; 4–12 pdr.; 3 T. (18"). 2 — — 4–5/"; 1–12 pdr. AA; 6 T. (21"). 9 5 — 7–5/"; 2–12 pdr. AA; 8 T. (21"). — 1 — 6–5 5"; 4T. (21"). — 2 2 7,100 tons, armament not known. — — 4 10,000 tons, armament not known. 15 8 6 BRITISH LIGHT CRUISERS. 1 — — 7–7/"; 4–3" AA. 1 — — 4–7/"; 4–3" AA; 4–3". 3 — — 6–6"; 2–4" AA; 4–3 pdr. 5 — — 6–6"; 2–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. 5 — — 5–6"; 2–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. 8 — — 5–6"; 2–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. 2 — — 5–6"; 2–3" AA; 2–3 pdr. 5 — — 4–6"; 2–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. 1 — — 4–6"; 1–3" AA; 2–2 pdr. 4 — — 4–6"; 2–3" AA. 2 — — 8–6"; 1–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. 3 — — 9–6"; 1–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. 6 — — 8–6"; 1–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. 1 — — 2–6"; 6–4"; 1–4" AA. 1 — — 8–6"; 1–3" AA; 4–3 pdr. — 2 — 7–7/"; 3–4" AA. — 2 — 7–6"; 2–4" AA; 4–3 pdr. 48 4 —

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the success attending the operations to remove the blockship "Numi-dian" from Holm Sound, Scapa Flow, it is now intended to extend similar operations to the "Lorne" in Water Sound, or other blockships in those waters'?

Investigation of the results so far achieved is about to be made on the spot; and the question of dealing with other sunken vessels will not be considered until an official report of the success of the "Numidian" operations has been received, as was. indicated in my reply of the 25th April last.

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any information as to the proposed salvage of the "Natal" at Invergordon?

I am afraid that hardly arises out of the question on the paper.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty which ships of the Royal Navy cannot use the existing dock at Singapore; and whether damaged ships could make use of the existing dock?

The existing dock'at Singapore will not take 2 "Rodney" class (building). 5 "Royal Sovereigns." 2 "Renowns." 5 "Queen Elizabeths" (when bulged). 1 "Hood." 1 "Eagle." 16 (total). Damaged capital ships or aircraft carriers may draw up to 45 feet. We, therefore, cannot rely in war on the dock the maximum draught of which is 33 feet taking damaged capital ships or aircraft carriers.

asked the Prime Minister whether, as the Foreign Office did not represent the necessity for a naval base at Singapore, he will say what representations were made that led to the Cabinet decision approving the project?

The development of the naval base at Singapore was recommended by the Admiralty in order to enable modern capital ships to be docked and repaired in Eastern waters and to increase the mobility of the Navy generally. This recommendation was endorsed, after exhaustive inquiry, by the Committee of Imperial Defence and by the Cabinet.

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean that the Foreign Office was not consulted on this matter at all?

I do not know whether it was specifically consulted, but, of course, the Foreign Office is represented in the Cabinet.

Did the Foreign Office, as the Department responsible for foreign affairs, apprehend any particular danger in these waters?

Had that been the case, obviously it would have been brought to my notice.

Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been drawn to the statement, reported in the Press, of a leading Japanese statesman in Tokio to the effect that the building of Singapore dock is, if the British Empire is to look after its interests in the Pacific, the natural sequence to the ending of the Japanese-British alliance?

I have not seen that, but it seems to me to be a very sensible statement.

Is the Prime Minister aware that the only precedent for the Foreign Office establishing a base was at Wei-hai-wei, and that the Admiralty wisely turned it into a health resort?

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in 1911 Lord Fisher recommended Singapore as a naval base for the Far East?

The hon. Member is giving information.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if there is a post-War complement for warrant shipwrights; and if it is the intention of the Admiralty to promote the shipwrights who have just completed the final technical qualifying examination in His Majesty's dockyards?

The post-War establishment has not yet been definitely fixed, but it is anticipated that it will shortly be settled, and it is then the intention to make a small number of promotions to warrant ship-wrights as may be found necessary to meet requirements.

asked the First Lord of they Admiralty whether the Committees appointed to consider the questions respecting the position of post-War widows' pensions, relative rank, and officers' accommodation are still sitting; and, if so, can he inform the House when their Reports will be received?

The question of post-War rates of pensions for widows of warrant officers and commissioned officers from warrant rank and certain other classes is still under consideration. The Committee set up to consider the accommodation in His Majesty's ships is still sitting and I cannot say at present when their Report will be received.

Am I to understand that the Committees are about to be re-formed, or are already formed?

It is still under consideration.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the fact that automatic promotion is already existent in His Majesty's Navy, he will consider the introduction of automatic promotion for the sick berth, supply, and naval cook branches in His Majesty's Navy?

The answer is in the negative.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there has been no promotion among sick berth attendants at Plymouth since October, 1921, and that there have been great delays in the naval cook branch?

That hardly arises out of the question. The question is whether promotion should be automatic.

I think it does arise out of the question. [HON. MEMBERS: "Order‡"] Who is "ordering" me?

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the fact that a sergeant of police is authorized to sign the life certificate of a pensioner, he will extend the Regulation to admit of pensioner chief petty officers and chief petty officers of the Royal Navy, who hold a relatively higher rank, to do so?

The selection of persons allowed to attest life certificates of pensioners is a matter for the Treasury, but the Admiralty see no reason for making the proposed extension.

Can the right hon. and gallant Member say why a distinction is made against the senior Service?

It is a Treasury rule, and the sergeants at police stations are considered very suitable people to sign. It is no reflection on anybody else.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in the reply given to Item 53 of the 1922 General Welfare Requests, it is to be understood that it is the Admiralty's intention to permit serving ratings of His Majesty's Royal Navy to elect a civilian to represent them at the quarterly meetings of the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes; whether the Admiralty realise the serious consequences of such a decision; and, if such is not the intention, will they revise the reply given to the item in question to make it quite clear that canteen representatives must be serving ratings as requested by the welfare representatives?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative and to the second part, that the Admiralty do not consider that the decision involves any serious consequences whatsoever. The third part of the question does not arise.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how long the Admiralty intends to retain and pay 140 officers and 1,000 men in anticipation of some decision of the Government to set up a naval branch of the Air Service?

I hope that a decision will shortly be announced on the issue referred to by the hon. and gallant Member.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is any precedent for a public office continuing to employ people without any decision of Parliament, and paying them, in anticipation of something which they hope is going to be done?

The personnel referred to were kept on with the sanction of the Treasury, and whilst pending a decision.

Does the right hon. Gentleman set up the principle that the Cabinet is to decide how public money is to be expended, or is it this House?

Was not this question fully debated and answered by the right hon. Gentleman (Mr. Amery) in the course of discussion in this House?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the welfare decision, promulgated in Admiralty Fleet Order 1,703, item No. 4, stating that the first period of 12 years is not considered pensionable service unless the engagement to complete the time for pension is entered upon, he will state the amount received by the Admiralty in respect of pension liability on account of active service ratings loaned to the Colonial navies during the last five years; whether this money has been deducted from the pay and allowances of the men so loaned; and, having in view Article 368 K.R. and A.I., whether it is proposed to take steps to refund to any such men who do not reengage to complete the time for pension, or who are discharged before the expiration of their engagements, the amount deducted for pension liability?

As the reply is somewhat long, I will, with the hon. and gallant Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

The reply is as follows:

The amount received from Dominion Governments in respect of pension liability for men lent from the Imperial Navy during the last five years amounted to approximately £120,000. This includes the contribution in respect of men in their first or second engagements, non-continuous service ratings and reservists, and also arrears of increased rates levied after the introduction of higher scales of pension in 1919. In the case of Australia and New Zealand, the contribution is deducted by the Dominion authorities from the deferred pay issuable under Dominion regulations. In Canada deferred pay is not granted, and the Canadian Government pay the pension contribution. With regard to the last part of the question, the reference to Article 368 of the King's Regulations and Admiralty Instructions is not understood, and I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for the North Division of Portsmouth on the 18th July.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether it is proposed to revise the rates of pay for naval officers next year; and, if so, will he appoint a Committee beforehand to inquire into the question and give facilities for officers to appear before the Committee to state their views on the subject?

The general question is now being considered by the Anderson Committee.

Do you propose to revise these rates upwards or downwards?

I must leave that to the Anderson Committee.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty the number of women employed in the signal and wireless schools in the Royal Naval Barracks, Portsmouth, as tracers, valve testers, and clerks, and the amount of money per year required to meet these requirements; and whether he will, without detriment to any widows or single women who may have dependants solely depending upon their income from this source, substitute suitable ex-naval ratings with families rather than compel them to seek out-of-work relief?

I am having the desired information obtained, and will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as it has been received.

asked the Minister of Labour how many permit she has issued within the last year to alien immigrants on the ground that his Ministry is satisfied that the posts which these immigrants came to fill could not be filled by residents in this country; and whether he will state the exact nature of the various specific posts?

As the answer is somewhat long, I will, with the hon. and gallant Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

The number of permits issued by the Minister of Labour under Article 1 (3) (b) of the Aliens Order, 1920, during the twelve months ended the 15th June last was 2,608. Permits were refused in 1,720 cases. Permits are not ordinarily issued except where the prospective employer has made proper efforts to obtain suitable employés in the country but without success, or where the admission of the alien will lead to increased employment for British workpeople. In many cases the alien is required to give instruction in special processes, and other conditions are imposed in appropriate cases with the object of safeguarding the position of British employés. It may be added that in a large number of instances, the permits were granted for a limited period only.

The classes of alien employés in respect of whom permits were issued were as follows: Domestic servants 845 Musicians, including soloists 86 Variety artists, concert artists, and actors, etc. 753 Foreign correspondence clerks, etc. (including 148 admitted for training prior to transfer abroad or to replace other so transferred, and 92 admitted temporarily to take nominal posts while studying) 340 Mosaic terrazzo and asphalt workers, etc. 39 Engineers (to erect imported machinery) 73 Glass workers 39 Watch and watch-case makers 7 Spelter furnace workers 37 Sugar-beet workers (seasonal employment) 20 Seine net fishers, cod splitters, etc.(seasonal vacancies) 69 Hotel and restaurant employés (mainly in exchange for British employés proceeding abroad for experience) 71 Teachers of foreign languages 116 Nurses 31 Miscellaneous 82 2,608

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that men in the area of the London dock dispute are being refused unemployment benefit, although they have been unemployed and in receipt of benefit prior to the occur- rence of the dispute; and whether he will issue instructions to the officials of the Labour Exchanges to prevent these men being deprived of the benefit for which they have paid and to which they are entitled?

Dock workers in London within the area of the general dispute have been held by the Chief Insurance Officer to be disqualified for benefit under Section 8 (1) of the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1920. The Court of Referees on appeal upheld the Insurance Officer's decision, but gave the applicants leave to appeal to the Umpire. Further appeal may, therefore, be made to the Umpire by the applicants themselves or by any association of which they are members. I have no authority to order payment of benefit contrary to the decisions arrived at by the machinery of the Insurance Officer, Court of Referees and the Umpire.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are a very large number of men at the docks who have been unemployed during a great period, and will now be deprived of the benefit for which they paid? Cannot something be done to deal with their cases?

To use the word" deprive "rather begs the question. Here is the machinery for deciding these cases, and that machinery is open to the men. They can appeal to the umpires. I cannot alter the decision of the umpires.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the decision is correct?

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will have immediate inquiry made as to the action of the Audley Employment Exchange in making the gap in benefit now instead of at the end of the benefit year, because work may be available in harvesting, in view of the hardship imposed on people who did not expect the gap so early?

Local employment committees are authorised to recommend the suspension of uncovenanted benefit in particular cases, whether in order to vary the period during which the Statutory "gap" will fall or for other reasons, I understand that the local committee has taken such action in a case of which the hen. and gallant Member has sent me particulars, and I am inquiring into this.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that similar action has been taken in a number of cases, and is it within the powers of the local committee to alter the gap for a whole category of workers, or only in individual cases?

I should like to have notice of that question. Prima facie, it has to be dealt with by individual cases.

asked the Minister of Labour the result of the consideration given, as promised, by his Department to the proposal of insurance by industries and to the Watson Report on the insurance scheme as a whole?

I wrote on 28th November, 1922, to the National Confederation of Employers' Organisations and the Trades Union Congress General Council inviting their views on the question of unemployment insurance by industries, and I am at present awaiting replies from these organisations. From inquiry which I made recently, I understand they still have the matter under consideration. The Inter-Departmental Committee on Health and Unemployment Insurance has made three interim Reports. Action has been taken in accordance with the recommendations of the first two Reports. The Third Report recommended the abolition of refunds to insured workers at the age of 60 and a modification of the rule limiting covenanted benefit in relation to the number of contributions paid; these recommendations could not be adopted -without legislation.

also asked the Minister of Labour the present number of workers who come under the provisions of the Unemployment Insurance Act; and whether they do all contribute when actually in employment?

The total number of persons falling under the provisions of the Unemployment Insurance Scheme in Great Britain is estimated at about 11,500,000. There are naturally a certain number of cases of failure on the part of employers and workmen to pay contributions, but, generally speaking, contributions are duly paid by all of them. I may add that the unemployment insurance contributions from employers and employed at the present time amount to about £34,000,000 per annum.

asked the Prime Minister what preparation the Government has made to relieve unemployment during the coming winter?

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the serious prospects of the continuance of a large amount of unemployment, what further steps the Government are taking to provide for the situation which will arise in the coming winter; and whether the public work to be put in hand or assisted and the funds available will provide employment for as many men as were employed by similar means last winter?

asked the Prime Minister what special steps are being taken by the Government, in view of the serious statements as to the trade outlook recently made by Ministers, to deal with the unemployment problem during the coming winter?

It is not possible to deal with this matter by means of question and answer. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour, however, proposes to make a full statement on the subject before the House adjourns, and perhaps hon. Members will await that statement.

When shall we have an opportunity of debating this question?

I think probably on the second day of the Consolidated Fund Bill.

Will the Government in making their statement have regard to the fact that the financial position of those areas where unemployment is greatest is worse than it was last year?

asked the Prime Minister if any inquiry is being made into the relation of credit facilities to unemployment; and, if not, if he will institute an expert inquiry into the whole question of the relations of currency policy, price movements, and unemployment?

I do not think that the time has yet arrived when such an inquiry could serve any useful purpose.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is prepared to accept the formula submitted by the representatives of certain necessitous areas as a basis for granting assistance towards the abnormal burden thrown on their local rates, due to the unemployment in their districts being much in excess of the average for the rest of the country?

No, Sir. On careful consideration I came to the conclusion that I could not recommend acceptance of the formula in view of the inequitable results which it would produce as between different areas. I may add that the position of the so-called necessitous areas is at present under the consideration of a Cabinet Committee, and I hope to make a statement as to the decision of the Government before the Adjournment.

Will that statement be made in answer to a question, or in debate?

I am afraid I cannot answer that question, but I will communicate with the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Health if, taking all towns with over 25,000 population, he can state the six which pay out on the highest scale of outdoor relief for able-bodied unemployment and the six which pay out the lowest scale for such men, giving the figures in each case.

I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a statement giving this information.

Following is the statement promised:

According to the information in the Department, the six unions including towns with a population exceeding 25,000 with the highest scales of out-door relief to able-bodied unemployed are as follows:—

Plus rent. Plus coal to value of 1s. 6d. per week.

Children over 16 and under 18, addition to parents' relief of 10s. boys and 8s. girls.

Maximum relief per household, 50s.

Plus rent not to exceed 12s.

Maximum income per household,50s. 6d.

Plus rent up to 7s. if rent exceeds 5s.

Maximum income per household, 50s

Plus two-thirds of weekly rent.

Plus half rent.

The six unions including towns with a population exceeding 25,000 with the?lowest scales of out-door relief to able-bodied unemployed are as follows:—

asked the Minister of Labour the reasons for the delay in acting on the Reports on boy labour at the Merseyside Docks; and if he will take steps to call a local conference of all concerned to consider the draft scheme prepared by the Ministry?

I am not aware that there has been any avoidable delay. I have no compulsory powers in this matter, which can therefore only be dealt with by discussion and agreement. The draft scheme has been circulated to the parties concerned and at the present time I am awaiting their observations, and when these replies are received I shall be prepared to consider whether a local conference can be called with advantage.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that certain building operations are held up by reason of the shortage of supply of English bricks; whether he has any information as to the reason for this; and whether he can inform the House if there are a number of brickfields, working in 1914, which have not been reopened since the War?

I am aware that there is a temporary shortage of bricks in London and the South-Eastern Counties, and am informed that the Committee on Building Materials Prices will deal with this question in their report, which will be presented this week. There are, no doubt, some brickfields which, for economic reasons, are not producing at present, but I have no records of the numbers of them.

asked the Minister of Health the total number of approved schemes already sanctioned under the Housing Bill showing the numbers of schemes and houses of local authorities and private enterprise, respectively?

187 schemes providing for the erection of 13,382 houses by local authorities and 37 schemes providing for the erection of 3,486 houses by private enterprise have been approved under the Housing Bill.

asked the Minister of Health if he will give the latest information available as to the applications received for the erection of houses under the various schemes permitted by his new Housing Bill, the number sanctioned, and the number he estimates likely to be put in hand before the end of the year?

Up-to-date pro posals under the Bill have been submitted for the erection of approximately 22,000 houses and approvals have been given in respect of 16,868 houses. I have no means of estimating the number likely to be put in hand before the end of the year.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that diabetic sufferers are unable to obtain insulin treatment at a lower cost than 10s. per day, although panel patients under the Insurance Act are obtaining free treatment; and whether he will make arrangements for uninsured persons to obtain this treatment at a lower cost?

I am advised that the average cost of insulin is at present about one-third of the figure stated by my Noble and gallant Friend, though the treatment of exceptionally severe cases such as must go to an institution may cost more. It is within the power of the guardians, on the advice of their medical officer, to pay for the supply of insulin in cases of destitution.

In view of the importance of this cure, does the right hon. Gentleman not think the time has come for the Ministry to control prices?

I do not think so, because the price has been reduced already very materially, and I have good hope that it will be still further reduced.

But is it not far above the figure which the ordinary person can pay?

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that it was ascertained, by inquests, that in 1921 three persons died of starvation, in the unions of Hammersmith, St. Olave, and Bermondsey, in the County of London; whether his Department has taken any, and, if so, what steps to prevent similar deaths; whether any and, if so, how many deaths in that county in 1922 were found by inquest to have been due to starvation or accelerated by privation; if he can supply particulars as to age, sex, date of inquest, and union concerned; whether any and, if so, what, Poor Law officers were examined at the inquest; and whether any of the persons so dying in either year were tramps or homeless?

I am aware that three cases of death which occurred in the County of London in 1921 were found by inquest to be due to starvation. The unions concerned were Paddington, Hammersmith and Bermondsey. In the year 1922 no deaths in the county were found by inquest to have been due to starvation or exposure, and accordingly the third and fourth parts of the question do not arise. The death which occurred in the Hammersmith union in 1921 was that of a homeless man.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in the 19 workhouses in Yorkshire and elsewhere where the casual wards are closed, midday meals have in fact been given to all the destitute wayfarers who, had the casual wards been open to them, would have been entitled to such meals under the Casual Paupers Order, Article 8; if he will obtain definite information from each workhouse how many casuals obtained and how many did not obtain the midday meal; and state in what book or account the gift or expense of midday meals in workhouses, when there is no casual ward, is recorded which ratepayers may inspect at the audit?

I have no reason to suppose that midday meals have not been duly supplied in the cases to which the hon. Member refers, but if he has any case in mind in which there is alleged to have been a failure in this respect, I will gladly investigate the case. I cannot, however, undertake such general inquiries as are suggested. The expenditure in respect of the meals supplied to casuals is recorded in a provisions consumption account which is open to the inspection of ratepayers at the audit.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that large numbers of men who are seeking employment and cannot get a meal are frequently passing these places?

If the hon. Member will give me particulars of any cases I will look into them.

asked the Minister of Health whether it is proposed to secure, as early as possible, the necessary legislative authority for the staffs of insurance committees to be included in the Local Government Officers Superannuation Act or, alternatively, for insurance committees to make the appropriate contribution to a scheme of superannuation giving equivalent benefits?

As regards the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to my reply to a similar question by the hon. Member for East Hull on the 11th July. As regards the second part, insurance committees have no power to contribute to superannuation schemes, though it is open to them to make contribution to a superannuation fund on the part of their staffs a condition of employment. In view, however, of the limited amount available for expenses of administration, I am not prepared to sanction increases of salary designed to relieve the contributors of any part of their contributions.

asked the Minister of Health what amounts were received in each of the years 1921 and 1922 in England and Scotland, respectively, on account of national health insurance contributions; and what is the shortage in each year as compared with the amounts estimated?

With the hon. Member's permission, I propose to circulate the answer in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

The amounts of health insurance contributions were approximately as follows: In England and Wales: £ 1921 … … 22,130,000 1922 … … 22,500,000 In Scotland: 1921 … … 2,740,000 1922 … … 2,720,000 The shortage of contributions as compared with the amount assumed in the financial basis of the Act, namely, about 48 contributions per insured person per annum, is estimated to be approximately 7 per cent. in England and Wales and 10 per cent. in Scotland.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that the voluntary hospitals of the country are crowded and subject to long waiting lists and that a large number of beds are unused in the Poor Law hospitals, he can take some immediate action to remove this anomaly?

I do not think I could usefully undertake any general action in the direction suggested, but I should be very glad to consider any proposals which may be put forward by boards of guardians and the authorities of the hospitals for the general use of surplus accommodation in, Poor Law infirmaries.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is prepared to propose the admission of Abyssinia to the League of Nations as a sovereign State in order that the League may bring its full influence to bear with that State for the purpose of ending the slave-holding system which exists in Abyssinia?

There is no provision in the Covenant for a State being proposed as a member of the League by another State. It is for any State seeking admission to apply for membership itself. The answer is therefore in the negative.

Will the British Government suggest to Abyssinia that she should apply for membership?

I think that we must wait and see.

asked the Minister whether he is making arrangements to secure the presence of a Secretary for Scotland in the House of Commons next Session?

The answer is in the negative.

If we guarantee a safe seat in Glasgow, is there any chance of obtaining someone?

asked the Prime Minister whether, in order to allay the anxiety that prevails among the pre-War pensioners on the question, and in view of the postponement of the Pensions (Increase) Amendment Bill, he will follow the course taken by the Government before introducing the Pensions (Increase) Bill in 1920, and make a short statement to the House, giving the classes of pensioners that will be affected by the Measure and what increase will be given and can he say what will be the cost to the Exchequer of the additional percentages?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which was given him on this subject on the 12th July by my right hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the Treasury. I still feel that it would be desirable to await the introduction of the Bill, and I hope my hon. Friend will not press his request.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that public vaccination is controlled by the Poor Law authorities, who have no responsibility in the prevention of smallpox, he will take the necessary steps to transfer their powers in this connection to the health authorities, who are responsible for the prevention of this disease?

This suggestion is under consideration in connection with the general question of possible amendment of the Vaccination Acts.

asked the Minister of Health whether, seeing that the registration of births, deaths, and marriages, carried out to the requirements of the Registrar-General, is under the control of the Poor Law guardians, although these have little interest in the subject, he will transfer this duty to the health authorities who are mainly concerned, and who incur unavoidable expenditure in the purchase of copies of the Registrar's Returns each year?

As previously stated, the reorganisation of the registration service is being considered, and the hon. Member's suggestion will be borne in mind. I am not, however, as yet in a position to make any announcement on the subject.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that on Saturday, 8th May, 1923, Mr. Ernest Charles Glover, of 46, Groseley Lane, East Ham, was sent by his doctor to Poplar Hospital for a minor operation for stricture; that an anæsthetic was administered and an operation performed in his bed and not in the operating theatre, and that Glover did not recover from the operation; that at the inquest the coroner commented upon the fact that it was the third inquest he had held that day upon persons who had died following the administration of anæsthetics, and stated that, in his opinion, further investigation was necessary; and will he state to the House whether he will investigate these cases to ascertain if every care was exercised and, in addition, order an inquiry into the science of anæsthesia generally to safeguard the public from these unanticipated fatalities?

I have not received particulars of the case to which the hon. Member refers, but I will make inquiry with a view to considering whether further action is called for.

asked the Attorney-General if the accounts of sheriffs' officers concerned with County Court work and their charges for levying writs of fi. fa. are subject to audit by any Government Department?

Execution in the County Court is levied by the High Bailiff and his officers, and not by the Sheriff. The fees are those prescribed by the County Courts Fees Order, or ordered or allowed by the judge under that Order. In the majority of cases the State has no pecuniary interest, as the fees are, paid over to the profit of the High Bailiff or Registrar, and there is nothing to audit, though the books are examined and any improper charge would, of course, be reported to the Lord Chancellor. Where by arrangement the High Bailiff pays over part of the fees to the County Courts Department, the County Court Examiner checks the receipts to see that the proper amount is paid over.

asked the First Commissioner of Works if he will make arrangements to allow the greenhouses at Kew Gardens to remain open until 6 p.m. on bank holidays as on Sundays, in order that as large a number of people as possible might have an opportunity of seeing the flowers and shrubs on exhibition in these places?

I have been asked to reply on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture. My right hon. Friend will be glad to make the arrangements suggested by the hon. Member.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War the portions of waters round the British coasts where T.N.T. and other explosive refuse is being dumped; and whether there have been any complaints of the practice?

Considerable quantities of waste ammunition have been dumped since the War in areas settled by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in consultation with the War Office and other Departments concerned. The principal areas in proximity to the British Isles which have been used for dumping within the last 12 months are designated by the following central points: Between the Isle of Man and Anglesey, 53º32N., 4º50W. In the Channel near the Hurd Deep at 49º50N., 2º20W. In the Bristol Channel, 51º32N., 4º50W. Minor quantities have been dumped at a point on the Goodwin Sands and off Portsmouth and Plymouth. All areas have been carefully selected with a view to avoiding interference with fishing operations or navigation and danger to fishermen. Early in 1920 dumping took place in the Black Deep in the Thames Estuary. Complaints were received from the Oyster Merchants' and Shellfish Planters' Association that this dumping had caused injury to oyster beds, but, after the fullest examination, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries have come to the conclusion that these complaints are ill-founded. No dumping has taken place in the Thames Estuary since 1920. A few minor complaints as to the washing ashore of dumped material and as to damage to nets have also been received and dealt with. All possible steps are taken to ensure that all dumped material shall remain on the bottom, where it is dumped.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the Army Council has at present under consideration any proposals for economies to be effected as regards the Corps of Military Accountants; and whether they are considering the retention of this body in its present form?

Economies are constantly being effected in this corps as opportunity arises, and its cost has been reduced by 45 per cent. since 1921–22. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply given yesterday to the hon. and gallant Member for Basingstoke (Sir A. Holbrook).

Will the hon. Gentleman kindly say whether or not it has yet been decided to amalgamate this body, the Corps of Military Accountants, with the Royal Army Pay Corps?

If the hon. and gallant Member will read the answer I gave yesterday, he will see that no decision has yet been come to.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that the pre-War re-enlisted pensioner whose pension has been reassessed under Article 1030 (a), Royal Warrant, 1922, and whose disability element is assessed at the minimum of 6s. 6d. per week, as laid down in this article, is subjected to a still further reduction of this amount by 50 per cent., and granted 3s. 3d. per week only: whether there is any regulation authorising such reduction; and if he will see that this matter is readjusted?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave him on the 6th July, on this very point.

Can the hon. Gentle-man do anything in those very unfortunate cases where a man in work is receiving less remuneration than another man and his family who have applied to the guardians.

If the hon. Gentleman will read my reply of 6th July, he will see that I answered the question very fully, and that my Department must act on the definite rules laid down in the Army Order.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War the number of men under arms in Great Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States of America in the years 1913 and 1922?

The figures of men under arms for 1913 and 1922, respectively, are as follow: 1913 1922 Great Britain 106,514 80,919 France 666,743 450,859 Germany 836,000 100,000 Russia 1,300,000 Varying between 900,000 and 1,300,000 United States of America 86,500 137,000

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman state the cost to each nation and the maintenance of these men?

I shall have to have notice of that question.

Is the House to understand that the only important Power which has actually increased its armed forces is the United States?

That is so.

What about Russia?

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he can state, approximately, for the years 1913 and 1922, respectively, the total number of boys and of girls on the roll of secondary schools in England and Wales,

Approximate number of boys and girls (Free-placers and other pupils), respectively, in schools provided or aided by Local Education Authorities.

NOTE.—A. Free Place Pupils are pupils entering from Public Elementary Schools with free places awarded under the conditions of Article 20 and the Appendix to the Regulations for Secondary Schools.

B. Other Pupils are mainly fee-paying, but include a small number (about 4 per cent.) who pay no fees though they are not "Free Place" pupils within the meaning of Article 20.

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he can state when the Report of Lord Emmott's Committee dealing with questions affecting the superannuation of teachers will be issued? whether provided by local education authorities or aided by them, and also in the other secondary schools officially recognised by the Ministry of Education; and what were the total numbers of boys and girls, respectively, in the years referred to who were in attendance at the publicly provided or aided secondary schools as scholars or free-placers on the one hand and as fee-payers on the other?

As the answer contains a number of figures, my right hon. Friend will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL RBPORT.

Following is the answer:

My right hon. Friend is not in a position to make any statement.

Cannot even an approximate date be suggested for the issue of this Report, in view of the very long Recess?

I am afraid my right hon. Friend really is not in a position to state, even approximately, when the proceedings of this Committee will terminate.

asked the President of the Board of Education if he is aware that the elementary day school belonging to the London County Council at High Street, Bromley-by-Bow, was condemned as unfit for use as a school some years before the War; that this school is one of the oldest in the County of London and is constantly flooded during heavy rainfalls; that the London County Council has acquired another site on which to build a new school, the houses on which are in a very dilapidated condition, some of them having fallen into ruins; and will he, in order that a proper school might be provided for the children of this neighbourhood, bring pressure to bear upon the London County Council immediately to take the necessary steps for providing a new school, especially in view of the fact that the present building is not only inadequate and insanitary, but that there is in the district a very large number of unemployed in receipt of unemployment pay and out-door relief who could be much better employed in erecting the new school?

The premises of this school have never been formally condemned by the Board. In view, however, of their old-fashioned character and their inconvenient situation, the London County Council decided in 1912 to provide another school upon a new site. Owing to the War the building of the new school has not been proceeded with, but my right hon. Friend understands that a site for it is now in process of being purchased. He has no information bearing out the statement as to the flooding and the insanitary nature of the present premises. My right hon. Friend is, however, making further inquiry.

May I ask the Noble Lord if he will inform his right hon. Friend that there is no suggestion in the question that the Board have condemned the school? The London County Council condemned the school when I was a member of that body.

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he receives any Returns showing the extent of school dental work undertaken by local education authorities; and, if so, whether he will issue a summary of the latest Returns for the information of the House, and/or instruct the Chief Medical Officer of his Department to include a complete summary in his next Annual Report?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Chief Medical Officer of the Board proposes to include such a summary in the forthcoming issue of his Annual Report.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that 30 agricultural workers are now without regular employment who were previously employed on 1,400 acres of land that has gone out of cultivation in the parishes of Barton Stacey and Wonston, in Hampshire; and whether he will take steps to introduce a Bill that will restore the powers of agricultural committees to enforce good husbandry and thus help to protect both workmen and farmers from what is a danger to both?

I have been asked to reply. There is no doubt that the non-cultivation of the land in question has had the effect described. The Government are not prepared, however, to introduce legislation of the nature suggested.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that 1,400 acres of land in the parishes of Barton Stacey and Wonston, in Hampshire, have during the past two years gone out of cultivation; that last year his Department allowed the Hampshire County Council to cut the weeds on this land at a cost of £214 6s.; that the money so spent has not yet been paid by this landowner; that the weeds have again become a real danger to the surrounding farms; and will he state what action he proposes to take in this matter?

I have been asked to reply. The facts are as stated. The matter is in the hands of the county agricultural committee, by whom notices are being served on the occupier of the land requiring him to destroy the weeds. The committee are also taking steps to recover the money spent last year.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he can state when he hopes to pass the answer to the War Compensation Court on the claim of the Lila Mill Company, Shaw, and also other companies; if he is aware that such Court is willing to adjudicate upon such claims; and that the delay is causing extreme hardship in the districts where the mills are situate?

The claims made in. these cases were of such a nature as to call for considerable and detailed investigation, which is now nearly complete. It is hoped that the cases will be heard soon after the Court re-assembles.

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that Mr. G. W. Garner, of 4, Bombay Road, Edgeley Fold, Stockport, is suffering a diminution in his superannuation owing to a Departmental delay in his retirement being authorised; and, as this delay was entirely the fault of the Department and not of Mr. Garner, will he take steps to ensure that the matter is put in order and the retirement authorised as from 13th February, 1922?

rose to reply on behalf of the Postmaster- General.