asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can now give any further information regarding the proposal to establish a national home for the Armenians in the territory of Erwan?

I presume that the hon. Member is alluding to the scheme which was recently brought to the notice of His Majesty's Government by the League of Nations for the settlement of a limited number of Armenian refugees on undeveloped land in the territory of the Armenian Republic of Erivan. The information which His Majesty's Government have received is not sufficient to enable them to judge whether the scheme is likely to prove workable in practice, but they can only view with sympathy any proposals aimed at affording even a partial solution of the Armenian problem.

Are the Government considering undertaking financial responsibility for this proposal on the same lines as the French Government?

I could not answer that question.

Will the hon. Gentleman make representations to the Government of Turkey as to the advisability of allowing the Armenians to return to their homes in Constantinople? Can I have an answer to my question.

That is a question of policy which I cannot answer.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in appointing the delegates and vice-delegates to the next assembly of the League of Nations, he will take into consideration the possibility of giving some representation to the Conservative and Liberal parties?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on the 24th June by the Lord Privy Seal to the hon. Member For North Hackney.

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that the League of Nations is in any sense a party question?

No.

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to attend the Assembly of the League of Nations at Geneva in September next; and whether an opportunity will be given to the House of Commons during the present Session to discuss the policy of His Majesty's Government upon the various questions to be submitted to the Assembly?

I hope to be able to get to Geneva for the opening of the Assembly of the League of Nations in September. As regards the second part of the question, I propose to follow the usual practice and publish the Report as a White Paper.

Will the right hon. Gentleman be able to give an opportunity to the House to consider the matters that are to be brought before the Assembly of the League, in that respect following the example of all his predecessors?

My right hon. Friend, of course, knows the details more than I do, as he was in it. But I do not think the precedent established was as stated. If it has been established, I am quite willing to do my best to meet it again. I would remind the House that the Agenda for the Conference in September will not be ready before I hope we rise for our holiday, and consequently a discussion on it will be very much a discussion in the air. My information is that what happened before was that the delegates met and reported, and if any question arose the House would then find opportunities for discussion.

We are at cross purposes. What I asked was whether the right hon. Gentleman would give an opportunity to the House to have a general discussion on League of Nations matters, in the course of which discussion many matters that would be considered at the Assembly would be brought into our debate, and whether the right hon. Gentleman would give such an opportunity in the ordinary course of House of Commons business?

If that is what was in my right hon. Friend's mind opportunity is given in the ordinary course of House of Commons business, on Supply and the Appropriation Bill.

Is the right hon. Gentleman going to Geneva to remain throughout the Session of the Assembly as the representative of this country, or is he going only for special business? Will there be any other representative besides himself?

Yes, there will be other representatives. I am afraid that it is impossible for me to stay at Geneva for three weeks and to take part in all the details of the discussions. I think it is very important that one or two Prime Ministers should go to Geneva. Exactly what our position will be there is at present a matter of consideration between ourselves.

Is the French Prime Minister also going to Geneva?

I am very glad to say that it is the intention of the French Prime Minister to go, and although I cannot announce anyone else, yet I hope that we two will not be the only ones.

asked the Prime Minister whether he has now come to an arrangement with the Turkish Government with regard to the methods and manner of referring the Mosul question to the League of Nations on 5th July?

No reply has as yet been received from the Turkish Government on the subject.

Then no agreement has yet been reached with the Turkish Government for the matter to be brought before the League?

It is only the method of presentation that is matter of discussion.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Treaty of Mutual Assistance has, by direction of the last Assembly of the League of Nations, been circulated to the States members of the League for information and comment; whether he can inform the House how many States have replied; what is the general nature of their observations; and whether he can state the decision at which His Majesty's Government has arrived in this matter?

asked the Prime Minister if the Government has come to any decision as to its attitude with respect to the principles of the draft Treaty of the League of Nations; whether, in that case, he will state what its attitude is; and whether any opportunity will be afforded to the House before the Recess of discussing the subject?

asked the Prime Minister whether he will state what are the intentions of the Government with regard to the draft Treaty of Mutual Assistance?

I shall answer these three questions together. The draft Treaty has been circulated to all States whether members of the League or not. So far as I am aware, only Esthonia, Latvia, Finland, Belgium, Bulgaria and the Union of Socialist Soviet Republics have replied to the request for their observations. Bulgaria and Latvia approve the draft, the Soviets condemn it, and I am not aware of the nature of the other replies. As regards the attitude of His Majesty's Government in this matter, it is not yet possible to make any statement, as, amongst other reasons, the matter is still forming the subject of consultation with the Dominions. If discussion on the subject is required, opportunities are provided by the ordinary course of business.

The right hon. Gentleman says that he cannot state the attitude of the Government on this question. Does he not agree that unless some step of this kind is taken, by some means of mutual disarmament, we are bound to go on arming, and is not the Government going to take any steps to prevent that catastrophe?

Yes, I quite agree, but I am not at all convinced that the effect of this method would not be to increase armaments. I have said that I am not at all convinced. That does not mean that I think it will be so. But that is a point of great importance about which I would like to have some more information than that which has so far reached me. It certainly looks to me as though that would be the effect. In any event, I am convinced that this method is not the only method, and I doubt whether it is the best method of approaching the question.

Is this one of the subjects which the right hon. Gentleman thinks is likely to be raised at the League of Nations meeting which he will attend; and, if so, will he undertake before leaving the country to make a statement to the House of Commons as to the general course he proposes to follow?

I assume this matter will be raised at the Assembly, because it has been referred to that body to deal with further, but, whether it is or not, I hope before the Assembly meets and before this House adjourns for its holiday, that a statement will be made by the Government on the subject.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if His Majesty's Government have now considered the suggestion that some further publication of British pre-War records would be to the public advantage; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter?

Yes, Sir, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has decided that there shall be some such publication, and he is at present considering the plan on which it shall proceed.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if His Majesty's Government will use such influence as they may possess to prevent the proceeds of any private loans which the Yugo-Slavian or any other Government may raise in this country from being expended in the purchase of armaments?

It is for the lenders in the market to determine for what purposes they will make loans to foreign Governments, but in so far as His Majesty's Government have any influence in the matter, they would certainly not favour the raising of any loan in this country for the purchase of armaments by a foreign Government.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will state the approximate price per ton charged in 1913 by the British shipbuilding employers for the construction of cruisers and battleships for the British Government and the price per ton for the cruisers recently given out?

The cost in 1913 for building the hulls of warships was approximately £65 per ton. It is now approximately £90 per ton.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will issue a report upon the operations of the Navy with regard to its successful efforts in coping with slave-trading in the Red Sea and in the Indian Ocean?

There is nothing of particular interest to report as regards these operations beyond the information already given in my reply to questions asked by the hon. Member for Erdington on the 13th December, 1922, and the late hon. Member for Derby on the 21st March, 1923, copies of which I am sending the hon. Member. The success achieved in checking the slave traffic in these waters is due to the traders being aware that patrols are carried out, and that their dhows may be stopped and searched at any time. This patrolling is a preventive measure which, though arduous, does not provide material for a report. In fact, details would only provide information of value to the slave trader.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that publicity in this matter is of the greatest assistance, and that the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Sparkbrook (Mr. Amery) always issued reports in reference to these operations, and that these reports had a material effect in checking the traffic?

I quite appreciate the hon. Member's supplementary question, but, as at present advised, it does appear that the publicity which is sought for would at this moment give information which it would be undesirable to give.

Can the hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that should it be decided to resume these operations, destroyers will not be detailed for that purpose in view of the extreme unsuitability of the build of these vessels for working in very hot climates?

Will the hon. Gentleman call for a report from the Navy in Northern Ireland waters as to the condition of the Nationalist internees held for two years. Their lives should be as valuable surely as those of the slaves in the Indian Ocean.

Why do you not catch the Queenstown murderers?

Some people should have caught you on your recent visit to Northern Ireland.

Why does the hon. Gentleman appear to be more reluctant to give this information than his predecessor?

I am not at all reluctant to give information, but it is a matter for consideration whether such publicity would increase or decrease the value of what is being done.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether it is proposed to entertain the guests on the "Enchantress" entirely at Government expense?

The arrangements in this respect will be the same in the case of the guests accommodated in the "Enchantress" as in the case of the guests accommodated in the other vessels.

also asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he will state what is the total number of vessels other than the "Enchantress" which it is proposed to employ for the transit and entertainment of visitors to the naval review; and what is the total estimated cost to the taxpayer, including that of the "Enchantress," of entertaining the guests and visitors during the review?

In addition to the "Enchantress" it is proposed to employ four vessels for the transit and entertainment of visitors to the naval review, and the total estimated cost of their entertainment, including that on the "Enchantress," is £1,500. It is also proposed to permit a limited number of Admiralty and dockyard officials and their friends to view the assembed Fleet, at their own expense.

Would it not be possible for Members of Parliament and their friends to go on board these ships at their own expense?

Under the terms already indicated in the notice.

Does the £1,500 include the cost of reconditioning the vessel?

No. That is £1,100. The figures represented here are for entertainment.

Does not the hon. Gentleman consider that it is carrying economy to the point of meanness not to allow us to see these warships?

Is there any reason why Members of this House at intervals of three years at a small cost like that should not visit and be interested in the Navy?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty why accommodation for a limited number of Members only is to be provided for the purpose of witnessing the naval review; and whether, in view of the importance of the occasion and the desirability of all Members who so wish seeing the Fleet, he will provide facilities for this?

I regret that the number and size of the Admiralty vessels which are available and suitable for taking distinguished visitors to the review, and the restricted amount allowed for purposes of entertainment, do not make it possible to invite all Members of Parliament. To accommodate all Members, one or more passenger ships would have to be, specially chartered, as on the occasion of previous reviews—[HON. MEMBERS: "Why not?"]—and the cost involved would be greater than His Majesty's Government has felt justified in incurring.

Is not every hon. Member of this House entitled, ipso facto, to attend this review, is it not a fact that he is asked to pay the covering expenses, is it not also a fact that on previous occasions every other Government has arranged a vessel of a sufficient size to accommodate all Members, and is it not finally a fact that Members who have been on these reviews on former occasions have come back much mare interested in and knowing a great deal more about the Navy than before?

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that at the last review the Government of that day adopted the Socialist principles of giving a free ride and free food?

We are aware of all the facts referred to. They are not disputed for one moment. No one would be more pleased to see all the Members of Parliament at this review than myself, but at the same time there are the financial limits imposed, which the Admiralty are called upon to observe.

Will new Members receive priority? [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh!"]

Are all the Members of the Government to have an opportunity of attending?

That matter has still to be decided.

To what Vote will these expenses be charged? Will they come out of the Entertainment Fund?

In the main, yes.

In the event of it not being possible to detail a flotilla leader to get under weigh with Members of Parliament on board, will it be possible for Members of Parliament to go on board ships that are taking part in the review, travelling at their own expense?

That is a question which I will see is put in the proper quarter.

Will those Members have priority who voted for the five cruisers?

In view of the anxiety of all Members to take part in the naval review, can the hon. Gentleman arrange that Members should travel at their own expense, so that they may have the advantage of visiting the Fleet?

Is it not a fact that the British Government——

Further questions must be put on the Paper.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if the suitability of the new high elasticity limit mild steel for naval construction has been investigated; and if its adoption would necessitate a revision of the armament limits determined at the Washington Conference?

The new high elasticity steel for shipbuilding has been evolved by the Admiralty and certain steel makers, and its properties have been fully investigated. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether it is the intention of his Department to erect permanent headstones in place of the wooden crosses put up to mark the place of burial of many of our sailors who lost their lives in the War round the coasts of the British Isles; and, if so, can he say how many of such headstones have been erected and how many wooden crosses still remain?

This duty is carried out by the Imperial War Graves Commission, who are erecting on the graves of sailors who lost their lives in the War the same form of headstones as on soldiers' graves. I am unable to give the figures for sailors as distinct from other branches of His Majesty's service, but there are estimated to be about 65,000 war graves in the United Kingdom in about 6,000 different cemeteries and churchyards. Some 10,000 of these already have memorials; the Imperial War Graves Commission have erected or contracted for 17,000 more; about 38,000 still remain to be completed. In considering these figures it should be borne in mind that the headstones for all theatres of war are made in this country, and the great bulk of the weekly output is, of course, sent abroad. In all, the Commission have erected or shipped for erection about 270,000 headstones.

Are the War Graves Commission taking care that in the case of the isolated graves scattered about our coasts the wooden crosses at present existing are not allowed to deteriorate pending the erection of the new headstones?

Yes. I think that the War Graves Commission are giving particular attention to my hon. Friend's point.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what action is being taken in reference to the payment of salvage money for the salvaging of the Spanish cruiser "Cataluna," on the 10th June, 1923, by the dockyard tugs at Portsmouth; has any acknowledgment been received from the Spanish Government for services rendered by such tugs; and what, if any, are the Regulations which govern the questions of salvage of foreign men-of war?

No action in regard to the payment of salvage money is being taken, for the reason that, as a matter of internationl courtesy, it is not the practice of one Power to make a claim on its own behalf, or to allow its servants to make a claim, for services rendered to a warship of another Power when in distress.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the coming reduction in the pay of naval officers, such an addition may be made to their marriage allowance as will bring their remuneration more into line with that of officers in the Army and Air Force?

In considering the question of a married allowance for naval officers, regard must naturally be paid to the remuneration of officers of the other Services. This question is not, however, in any way connected with the automatic reduction in pay which came into force on the 1st July.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty by whose authority the commander of the British gunboat "Cockchafer" compelled the leading authorities of Wan Hsien, under threat of bombardment of the city, to follow the funeral of Mr. Hamley, an American citizen, to the grave, and also demanded the execution of two men said to have murdered Mr. Hamley; and will he inform the House whether the two men were put on trial, by court martial or otherwise, and what period of time elapsed between the date the murder was committed and the executions?

His Majesty's Ship "Cockchafer" was the only war vessel present, and her commanding officer took the action which he considered necessary. An incomplete telegraphic report has been received, and a full written report from the British commander-in-chief is now awaited. I may add that the American commander-in-chief has thanked the British commander-in-chief for the action which was taken.

When the written report comes, will it be laid on the Table of the House?

I think the hon. Member will be entitled to put that question at the proper time.

Has the hon. Member any idea when that will be?

I do not think it will be unduly delayed.

Did not the action of this officer materially assist in the saving of life on this occasion?

That is the information that we have in the incomplete report that we have received by telegraph.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Mr. F. G. Garland, No. 200,891, Portsmouth, with two good conduct badges, who served 24 years and five months in the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Reserve, including two years and five months boy's service, with character very good, except for the year 1891 when it is good with ability superior; whether he is aware that Mr. Garland was recommended for the long service and good conduct medal in 1920, and that Mr. Garland has been refused the medal and the Royal Fleet Reserve gratuity of £100 owing to an alleged participation in the collective refusal of duty on 29th April, 1921; and whether, seeing that Mr. Garland denies that he was guilty of refusal of duty and has never been before any officer or court of inquiry with respect to the alleged offence, he will arrange for an inquiry to be held so that Mr. Garland may receive the medal and gratuity that are apparently due to him?

It is clear that on the occasion in question this Royal Fleet Reserve rating did not obey the bugle ordering the men to turn out on parade, and for this disobedience all implicated have been punished. Garland was very exceptionally given leave to go home the morning after the offence on account of domestic affliction, and seems on his return to Portsmouth to have missed the interrogation of all concerned which took place. On the other hand, in various communications to the Admiralty he has never satisfactorily explained the fact of his failure to obey the bugle. I am afraid that it is not now possible to arrange for a special inquiry into this man's case.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware, having regard to his undoubted knowledge of naval discipline and naval methods, that when a bugle is sounded for an assembly, and it is not attended to, the blue jacket can be reported as a defaulter? No such report having been been made in this case, and leave having been given on the following day, which is evidence of no report, otherwise he could not have gone, leave having been granted because of affliction, no default being attributed to this man, but on some report he is denied a gratuity after 24 years and five months' service, I am asking whether, in the light of the statements that have been made to the Admiralty, an inquiry cannot now be afforded to this particular rating, so that, if he is right, he can be given what he is entitled to, and, if not, the objection can be maintained.

The hon. Member has repeated the substance of his question. This decision was arrived at in 1920 and has been the subject of two or three special investigations by the Board since that date. I have myself seen the papers, and, despite my limited experience of the Admiralty, I have been able to come to the conclusion, quite satisfactorily to myself, that I find it impossible to reopen the case.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that disabled officers who retired under the special terms laid down in A.F.O. 1358/1922 are not considered by the Ministry of Pensions to be eligible for disablement pensions, on the ground that they have received special treatment by the Admiralty; and whether the 5½ per cent. reduction in retired pay will be applicable to these officers?

I am aware that the Ministry of Pensions does not regard officers retired upon the special terms granted in 1922 for the purpose of clearing the lists as eligible for disability retired pay under its Regulations. As regards the second part of the question, the special rates of retired pay sanctioned in 1922 are subject to the 5½ per cent. reduction, except in certain cases of young officers who were given the right to commute the whole of their retired pay.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the accidents occurring daily in His Majesty's dockyards, both slight and serious, he will consider the training in first aid of specially selected volunteers from among the workmen in each shop in order that temporary relief from pain may be afforded to those workmen who are unfortunately injured?

So far as is known, the present arrangements for dealing with accidents are adequate, and no occasion has arisen for adopting the suggestion contained in the hon. Member's question.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty the number of applicants for entry as paymaster cadets and special entry cadets whose fathers were warrant officers or commissioned officers from warrant rank who were accepted by the Admiralty during the year 1923 and the number who were rejected?

For special entry as naval cadets during 1923, there were no applicants who were sons of naval warrant officers, or officers promoted there from. For entry as paymaster cadet in June, 1923, there were also no applicants who were sons of naval warrant officers, or officers promoted there from, but the son of a pensioned chief petty officer was accepted. At the November, 1923, examination for paymaster cadets, there were seven applicants who were sons of naval warrant officers or officers promoted there from, and of these six were not accepted.

May I ask if, therefore, there is any disqualification for the sons of these gentlemen?

No, there is no disqualification. They actually did not pass the examination.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what steps have been taken up to the present date with regard to the formulation of a contributory scheme for pensions to widows and dependants of naval ratings; and when it is expected that the men of the Fleet will have concrete proposals placed before them for their decision?

A contributory scheme of pensions for the widows and children of seamen and marines is under consideration by the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust. Certain tentative proposals have recently been referred to the Admiralty and are at present under consideration with a view to seeing what assistance can be given in their development. The Admiralty will, of course, be in no way responsible for the administration of any scheme that may be decided upon. I am not, in these circumstances, in a position to state when a scheme will be placed before the men of the Fleet, but a reply will be sent to the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust as soon as practicable.

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that the number of persons recorded on the registers of Employment Exchanges in Great Britain on 9th June were more numerous than those for the previous week, he can state the increase in the number of such unemployed; and what steps he is taking to provide them with employment?

The number registered as unemployed on 9th June was 24,600 more than on 2nd June. There was a further increase of 25,000 on 16th June and a decrease of 39,000 on 23rd June. There is therefore no reason to conclude that the increases were other than temporary and in any event the steps taken by the Government to relieve unemployment cannot be related to the individuals thrown out of work in a particular week.

Can the right hon. Gentleman give me a little more detailed reply to the last part of the question is he taking any further steps to provide for these unemployed people?

It is absolutely impossible to take steps to relieve unemployment in any particular week. The steps that the Government take must be to deal with the whop volume of unemployment, and not simply those who have been unemployed for a week.

Will the Minister of Labour inform the House what steps the Government, of which the hon. Member opposite was a supporter, did under similar circumstances?

In previous years has there not been a steady decrease in the number of unemployed in the midsummer months, June and July? What has caused the increase in June this year. [HON. MEMBERS: "McKenna Duties!"]

The increases are mainly due to the stoppage of certain factories in Lancashire, and another part of the increase is due to unemployment in the engineering trades in the Midlands [HON. MEMBERS: "McKenna Duties!"] As far as my information goes, of the 49,600 increase in the fortnight, 500 persons were registered as belonging to the motor industry.

Has the right hon. Gentleman discovered any of the rabbits

Is not there a decrease this week?

Yes.

asked the Minister of Labour if he will give particulars of the number of unemployed at the end of December, 1922, January, 1923, and May and June, 1923, and for corresponding periods December, 1923, January, 1924, and May and June, 1924?

As the reply contains a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

asked the Minister of Labour what specific steps have been taken, or are under contemplation, for the relief of unemployment amongst dock workers at Newport, Monmouthshire?

Grants have been made towards the cost of approved schemes of relief work promoted by the Newport Town Council, including a scheme of about£20,000 value for the winter of 1923–4 approved by the Unemployment Grants Committee. The grant-making Departments will, of course, be ready to give consideration to further schemes put forward by the local authority.

Are any special schemes in contemplation to relieve unemployment among dock workers?

I think the last part of my answer covers that. What applies to Newport applies to any part of the country.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any headway has been made with the reclamation of the Wash?

There is a special question on that subject.

asked the Minister of Labour whether any work has yet commenced upon the reclamation works upon the Wash; whether it is intended to mark the initiation of this important scheme by any special function; and, if so, will an opportunity be afforded for Members to be present?

I have been asked to reply to this question on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture. With regard to the first part, work has not yet been commenced upon the proposed reclamation scheme on the Wash, and with regard to the second part of the question, it is not my right hon. Friend's intention to arrange any special function for its initiation. The last part of the question does not, therefore, arise.

Can my hon. Friend say how many of the unemployed are to be employed upon this very important work?

asked the Minister of Labour what is the present rate of interest charged on the deficit of the Unemployment Insurance Fund?

On the 1st July the debt on the Unemployment Fund was £7,130,000, carrying interest as to £2,340,000 at 5 per cent., and as to £4,790,000 at 4⅞ per cent.

Having regard to the rates at which the Government can borrow money, is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that he is not being charged too much?

I am not satisfied, and I am willing to communicate with my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

asked the Minister of Labour whether the weekly returns of the numbers of unemployed on the live registers of the Employment Exchanges include all young persons between the ages of 14 and 16; whether their inclusion is dependent upon their having previously found employment; and if he can give any figures to show the present number of such young persons who have left school and are seeking employment?

The weekly statistics of the live registers of Employment Exchanges do not include all juveniles between the ages of 14 and 16, but only those who have registered at exchanges. Any unemployed juvenile over the age of 14 can register at an exchange irrespective of whether he has previously been in employment or not. No statistics are available showing the total number of juveniles who have left school and are seeking employment.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has received any communication from the 13 experienced persons who have just published a series of suggestions in regard to juvenile unemployment and the insurance of young persons; and, if so, will he consider these suggestions?

I have not received a communication from the signatories to the letter recently published in the Press to which I assume the hon. Member refers. One of the suggestions made is that boys and girls should be insured against unemployment from the date of leaving school, and, as the hon. Member will recollect, a proposal recently made by me to this effect was not accepted by the House. The suggestions, other than that for an extension of insurance, appear to concern my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Education.

Was not one of the suggestions the wising of the school age?

Will the right hon. Gentleman exercise his influence with the President of the Board of Education to get him to do his duty?

In regard to the first question, the matter is one for the President of the Board of Education. As to the second question, I am satisfied that my right hon. Friend is doing his duty.

Is not this a most important matter?

That is what I think.

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the manager of the Employment Exchange at Oswestry has been asked by Mr. Watson, of the Berwyn Quarries, where there is a dispute, to endeavour to secure him some work-people, and that the manager wrote to a man signing the register informing him that men were required at the quarries, and thus indirectly interfering with the dispute; whether this has been done with his approval; and, if not, what action is he prepared to take to prevent Employment Exchanges being used for such purposes?

Yes, Sir. Certain vacancies were notified to the Employment Exchange at Oswestry, as stated. The Employment Exchange manager, in bringing this employment to the notice of suitable workpeople, on the register, informed them that there was some matter in dispute at the quarries. The manager's action was in accordance with the Labour Exchanges Act, 1909, and the Regulations made under the Act

asked the Minister of Labour if he has yet received information as to the terms of settlement in the Dutch cotton textile trade dispute, and whether the terms include a reduction in wages as well as an increase in hours of labour; and, if so, as the British textile trade has voluntarily adopted the 48-hour week, will he negotiate with the Dutch Government to again reduce the working week in Holland to 48 hours?

In accordance with the promise given in my reply to the hon. Member on 28th May, inquiries were made as to the terms of settlement of this dispute. I was informed that no official data were available. A further inquiry has now been made and any particulars received as the result thereof will be communicated to the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Labour if he has yet been able to secure a settlement of the difference existing between the Government of India and its workers employed at the India Store Department in Belvedere Road, Lambeth; and, if not, if he can usefully make any statement in regard to the dispute?

I have not yet been able to secure a settlement of the difference existing between the Government of India and the National Amalgamated Union of Shop Assistants, Warehousemen and Clerks in respect of the workers employed at the India Store Department. As my hon. Friend is probably aware, my Department is still in communication with the parties, and I do not think that I can usefully make any statement on the matter.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will take steps to modify the Regulations relating to the procedure to be followed by responsible local authorities in the purchase of land for housing purposes so that they can take immediate advantage of advantageous offers of land at low prices which come into the market from time to time, and take it also without divulging their identity, which so often leads to an enhancement of prices?

I am not aware that local authorities generally have experienced difficulties of the nature referred to in acquiring land for housing purposes. Local authorities already have power to acquire land for housing purposes, notwithstanding that the land is not immediately required for those purposes, and provision is made in the Housing Acts for the compulsory acquisition of land in cases where it is not possible to acquire it by agreement at a reasonable price.

Can the right hon. Gentleman state the number of years allowed to local authorities to pay the principal and interest for the purchase of land?

That does not arise out of the question.

asked the Minister of Health whether the civil or ecclesiastical area is taken as defining an agricultural parish under the Housing (Financial Provisions) Bill?

It is proposed that the civil parish should be taken as the area for this purpose.

asked the Minister of Health whether any consultations with representatives of rural local authorities have taken place with regard to the subsidy of £12 10s. proposed in the Housing (Financial Provisions) Bill for the agricultural parishes?

Yes, Sir. The question of the subsidy for agricultural areas was discussed at a conference with local authorities at which the rural authorities were fully represented.

asked the Minister of Health whether he has received any communication from the Wandsworth Ratepayers' Association on the subject of the East Hill housing scheme, indicating their objection to the erection of certain tenement buildings in the Wandsworth area; and whether he will request that body to discuss the matter with his Department before proceeding further with the matter?

I have received, and considered, a communication in writing from the association setting out in detail their objections to this scheme, and the scheme leas been discussed between representatives of the borough council and the London County Council. After full examination of the questions raised, it was decided that the scheme could properly be approved, and I have accordingly indicated my approval.

Are we to understand from the right hon. Gentleman's answer that he has the concurrence of the Wandsworth Ratepayers' Association in the matter; and, if not, does he propose to disregard local wishes?

Is this building being erected in order to help slum clearances in South-East London; and if a site is not obtained outside South-East London, is it possible to clear the people away from the slums?

I am not sure that I have the approval of the Wandsworth Ratepayers' Association, but it is sometimes necessary to give approval even when all parties are not agreed.

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that since the introduction of his Housing Bill the representatives of over 300 local authorities, representing the chief cities and towns in the country, assembled in conferences at Newcastle-on-Tyne, Manchester, Sheffield, London, Bristol, and Cardiff, have in all cases unanimously passed resolutions protesting against the subsidy being limited to the small type of houses named in his Bill; and, in view of this unanimous feeling in favour of a larger house, will he take powers which will enable him to grant the subsidy to houses of an additional 100 superficial feet on the recommendation of the local authorities concerned?

I cannot accept the suggestion that local authorities are unanimously in favour of an extension of the subsidy to larger houses, and I do not propose to ask the House to review the decision which it has already taken in regard to the size of the houses.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a large number of local authorities desire to have the increased power and will be improve his scheme by giving them an opportunity to build larger houses, if they so desire?

I am not aware of evidence that a large number of local authorities desire it.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that people are not able to pay rent for the houses they have, without making the hoses bigger?

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the fact that there are dwelling houses in Essex Street, Shoreditch, in which the average number of occupants per room exceeds five; and if, in view of the moral and social consequences of such overcrowding, he is prepared to take power to acquire some of the large number of empty houses in the Sloane Square neighbourhood in order to provide better accommodation for the people?

I am aware of the overcrowded conditions in Central London. Local authorities have power to acquire and adapt large empty houses, but experience has shown that this is not usually the most economical means of providing fresh accommodation. I am satisfied that the best remedy for overcrowding is the building of new houses.

Is it not the fact that, in the crowded areas, there is no space for the building of new houses.

Is it the case that many local authorities are in doubt as to the extent of the powers under Section 12 of the Act of 1919; and will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to inform them of what their powers are in the matter?

Yes, if should be shown that there is any doubt about it, I will take the necessary steps to educate them on the subject.

Is it not a fact that the right hon. Gentleman himself advocated the suggestion made in the question only a few months ago?

No, I do not think the hon. Member will find any evidence in those old pamphlets for such a suggestion.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the serious shortage of housing accommodation already existing in the East End of London and other urban areas; and, having regard to the fact that this shortage cannot be remedied for some considerable time, is he prepared to take steps, by means of legislation if necessary, to prevent the shortage of accommodation being made more acute through the conversion of dwelling-houses into factories and workshops?

I will give this matter my consideration, but I cannot undertake to introduce legislation dealing with it this Session.

asked the Minister of Health the average number of bricks which can be laid by a fully competent bricklayer, working piece-work or for himself, in a day of eight hours fine weather; the average number laid per man on Government housing schemes; to what he attributes the disparity, if any; and what steps he is taking to remove it?

I am unable to say what number of bricks can be laid in a day by a bricklayer working piece-work. It will 'be appreciated that the number of bricks laid will vary considerably with the class of work upon which the bricklayer may be engaged. There are no records available which would enable me to give reliable figures as to average number of bricks laid per man upon Government housing schemes.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman know very well that in the work required in connection with the small Government houses it is only at the chimneys and the corners where there is any difficulty at all, and that it is perfectly plain sailing otherwise?

I am also aware that there are some men who could not lay the bricks for these houses.

Is it not true that some bricklayers can lay more bricks than others, and is the Minister encouraging those who can lay more bricks or is he encouraging those who cannot?

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the inauguration of bricklaying competitions such as are held in the United States?

And will the right hon. Gentleman take part?

asked the Minister of Health whether he is prepared to meet representatives of the building guilds, prior to the present Housing Bill becoming law, with a view to securing their cooperation in the building of working class houses?

There has already been some discussion with representatives of the guilds and I have undertaken when the Housing Bill becomes law to consider the question of guild contracts in consultation with local authorities and the Industrial Committees which I propose to set up.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that all building guilds which have hitherto embarked on housing schemes have gone into compulsory liquidation.

I am not so familiar with their history as to enable me to agree with that statement. If that be so, it will be taken into account in the consideration of the matter.

asked the Minister of Health (1) whether he is prepared to submit an additional Resolution in Committee which will enable the House, if it so desires, to give power to the local authorities to build cottages of larger floor space than that now restricted by the Housing Resolution during the next 15 years, if any of them so desire;

(2) whether he is prepared to submit an additional Resolution in Committee which will enable the House, if it so desires, to provide the owner-occupier with similar assistance to that now proposed to be offered to the local authorities for houses limited for letting purposes?

I have carefully considered these suggestions, and, in view of all the circumstances, can see no reason that would justify me in submitting another Money Resolution.

Are we to understand from that answer that the Government have deliberately decided that this vital question shall not even be discussed in the House of Commons in Committee on the Housing Bill?

I may remind the right hon. Gentleman that I am acting on the decision of the House. I have considered the matter carefully, and I was particularly influenced by the fact that the local authorities are not, in the great majority of cases, utilising their full powers.

But is it not in the power of the Government and the right hon. Gentleman so to amend the Resolution as to allow the House of Commons, which, after all, counts for something, to discuss this question?

Yes, but what the right hon. Gentleman is asking me to do is that, the House of Commons having come to a decision on a Money Resolution, I shall depart from that Resolution and introduce a fresh Resolution.

Could the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is not the case that the House could not modify this Resolution at all, and that the only course was to reject it?

Was it not a fact that the Resolution was drawn in such a way that it could not be amended, notwithstanding the fact that, when my right hon. Friend brought in his Resolution last year, it was drafted in such a way that it could be amended, and has not the right hon. Gentleman himself on many occasions said that this increase in the size of houses ought to be accomplished?

Have not the Government themselves, in response to the general wishes of the House of Commons, frequently produced new Money Resolutions in connection with these Bills, and cannot the right hon. Gentleman see his way to allow the House to discuss this most important question?

I would say, in reply to the hon. Member for West Woolwich (Sir K. Wood), that since I criticised the size of these houses, the maximum size has been increased by 100 feet. I do not believe I could, with all due respect, enter into the supplementary question raised by the right hon. Member for Rusholme (Mr. Masterman).

May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is now satisfied that suggestions from below the Gangway will not be seriously pressed?

I should say that the right hon. Gentleman who puts the question is more likely to ascertain in advance the probable decision of the House on his proposals than I am.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that in Bethnal Green owners of houses are getting possession of dwelling-houses, and, in spite of the housing shortage, are converting them into factories; and whether he will consider legislation to prevent this?

I am aware that this has been done in certain cases, and I shall be glad to consider any detailed information which may be brought to my notice. I have no hope of being able to deal with this matter this Session.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that owners of the houses get possession on the plea that they are going to occupy them for dwelling purposes, and that, having got possession for dwelling purposes, convert them into factories? Is that not contrary to the purpose of the Act?

I do not know. I should like evidence of such cases, because I would like to think the Court would take a very serious view of any instance in which it has been misled by applicants in the matter.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that builders building subsidy houses in Manchester are paying up to 4d. an hour above the standard rate for bricklayers, with the result that the contractors who are building for the corporation and paying the standard rate are getting so few bricklayers that one important contract will at the present rate take over 20 years to complete; and whether he will introduce legislation to prevent exploitation of this kind?

I am not aware of the rates of wages paid by the particular builders referred to, but if the scheme I have laid before the House is adopted, I believe that the industry will be able to make such arrangements as will ensure a sufficient supply of labour for the local authorities' housing schemes.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say, in the meantime, how we are to get labour for our big schemes when paying the full rates, if other people using the subsidy pay 4d. an hour more?

It is because of these difficulties that I am asking the House to give me the powers contained in the Housing Bill.

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman take some steps to prevent non-federated employers paying that extra rate?

If the hon. Gentleman can suggest any way in which I can help the Manchester Corporation to find the necessary labour, I shall be very pleased to co-operate.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Scottish Board of Health has recently advised the Scottish parish councils to earmark for rent part of the relief given by them and pay such rent direct to the owner or his factor that the Majority Report of 1009 stated (page 147) that in some unions in England there was an idea that it was illegal to give relief sufficiently adequate to pay for shelter; that the rule prohibiting guardians to pay rent direct has been one of the causes of inadequate out-relief and also gave rise to the above-mentioned idea; and that many complaints of the rule have been made to the Department; and will he repeal Article V of the Relief Regulation Order, 1911, prohibiting such direct payment or give his reasons for not repealing it?

I do not think it desirable to rescind the Regulation referred to, but I have recently issued a circular letter on this subject and will send my hon. Friend a copy.

asked the Prime Minister whether the delegates of the Soviet Government of Russia are laying claim to a sum of £15,000,000 to £16,000,000 sterling, which is said to be lying in this country, and is due to the late Imperial Government of Russia; and, if so, whether he can assure the House that the embargo on this money will not be raised until such time as the British Government have received from the delegates of the Soviet Government adequate guarantees that the just and legal claims of British subjects for outstanding debts in Russia will be satisfactorily settled?

According to my information the figure suggesed by the hon. Member is considerably in excess of the amount actually involved. In any event, its disposal is governed by Article 10 of the Trade Agreement, with regard to which I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Middleton and Prestwich on 30th June.

asked the Prime Minister whether he has brought to the special attention of the Russian Delegation now in London the murder of the British Plenipotentiary, Captain Cromie, in Petrograd, with a view to securing compensation for Captain Cromie's widow, and an expression of regret?