asked the Minister of Pensions whether it is intended to reduce all War pensions by 10 per cent. as from the beginning of April, 1926?

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in view of the apprehension in the minds of many pensioners that their pensions are to be decreased by 10 per cent. in 1926, he can say what are the intentions of the Government in this matter?

asked the Minister of Pensions whether the Government have come to any decision on the matter as to whether War pensions are to be reduced in 1926; and, if not, will they make a statement as soon as possible in order Eat the anxiety of pensioners may be allayed?

asked the Minister of Pensions whether it is the intention of his Department to appoint a Committee to investigate the present scale of pensions and allowances in the light of a supposed fall in the cost of living; will he state what are the intentions of the Government in this matter; and whether it is intended in April next to review or reconsider the scale of pensions and allowances in any way whatever?

asked the Minister of Pensions what he intends to do with regard to the revision of the flat-rate disability pension in April next year?

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to introduce a new Warrant repealing the Clause in the Royal Warrant for 1919 which provides for the reduction of war pensions to 20 per cent. above the rates authorised in the Royal Warrant for 1918?

Under Article 24 of the Royal Pension Warrant of 1919 (which followed the recommendations of the Select Committee of this House on War Pensions), the increased rates of pension then given were required to be varied in accordance with the cost of living.

If that Article were allowed to operate a considerable reduction in rates (amounting to 16 per cent. and involving an annual saving of 6½ millions) would fall to be made next April. The Government have, however, decided that under present conditions no reduction in the rates of any disablement pensions and allowances for officers, men, widows and dependants should be made next year.

The statement that a reduction of 10 per cent. had been decided upon or contemplated by the Government is a fabrication. Neither this nor any other reduction of these rates had ever been the intention of the Government.

Has the right hon. Gentleman any knowledge as to where the rumour which has caused so much anxiety originated?

I think it is quite clear from the article in the "Daily Herald" that this rumour is closely connected with the present by-elections. I very much regret that an article should have been printed causing grave anxiety in hundreds of homes and among thousands of the sick and disabled of the Great War, and based on a statement which is absolutely untrue.

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us up to what date the present rates will be continued?

What about the year after next?

Perhaps the hon. Member will wait for my answer. it would be more courteous. I am in entire agreement with the late Government, that it is not a matter which can be settled at an early date, when we are dealing with the question as to whether the settlement should be for a term of year3 or for good. It is the intention of the Government, at a suitable time, to secure the permanent stabilisation of pensions. Whether the settlement now should be for a term of years or for good, is a matter which the Government will go into with the greatest care, safeguarding the interests of ex-service men.

Arising out of the right hon-Gentleman's first reply, in which he undertook that no reduction would be made next year, is he in a position to assure the ex-service men and their dependants that no reduction will be made the year after?

I am in a position to assure the House and the country that the statements circulated in the country are absolutely false.

May I ask for a reply to my question?

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is no necessity for this 10 per cent. reduction, since they are reducing pensions at the rate of 100 per cent. all over the country?

The statement made by the hon. Member is absolutely untrue. [HON. MEMBERS: "Withdraw!"]

We were all delighted to hear the original answer of the right hon. Gentleman. Does he not think that when the Debate took place a little more than a fortnight ago, his distinct refusal to say anything upon that question, when I put a question to him just before he finished, was a direct incitement to make statements to lead people to believe that there was such an intention?

I cannot admit that the fact that I did not announce the decision of the Government in that Debate is any justification for the circulation of a statement broadcast all over the country which is absolutely untrue.

And known to be untrue.

My reason for the actual wording that I adopted in saying that I "cannot anticipate the decision of the Government" was the wording adopted in a reply given by the late Government on the same subject.

rose —

Any further questions must be put on the Paper.

I will put a question down.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to a police regulation which does not permit of a person in custody on a charge of being drunk whilst in charge of a motor car being examined by a doctor called by any person other than the person so charged; is he aware that in the case of the Commissioner of Police v. Maloney, heard before Mr. St. John Morrow, at the West Ham Police Court dm the 13th May, attention to this matter was drawn by the learned magistrate; and whether the regulations now in force will be so amended as to allow a person charged to be examined under such circumstances by a duly qualified medical practitioner, if so desired by the friends or relatives of such person?

I understand that the regulations were framed in their existing form after very careful consideration, but I am looking into the whole question in the light of the particular case to which the hon. and gallant Member has been good enough to call my attention.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that sometimes it is almost impossible for a man so charged to call his own doctor? Will he give facilities to any friends of the man so charged to call in an independent doctor?

That is putting the question again in another form. I have said that I will look into the matter in the light of the particular case which the hon. Member has been good enough to put to me.

asked the Home Secretary whether he has had brought to his notice the great number of motoring accidents during the recent holidays; and whether he will consider taking special steps, and asking for increased legal powers if necessary, for the purpose of checking reckless or inefficient driving and safeguarding the general public from danger?

I have seen reports in the Press of several accidents. The Criminal Justice Bill, which is now before the House, contains a Clause increasing the penalty to which a motorist is liable if he drives recklessly or negligently or at a speed or in a manner which is dangerous to the public.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the present powers enable him to deal with the great increase in motor oars every week, many of them driven by incompetent or reckless people.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that his present powers are sufficient to enable him to overlook the brakes, particularly of the bigger type of motor cars, and see whether they are in order?

The law already requires all cars to be fitted with efficient brakes; but it would not be practicable for the police to inspect brakes on private cars. The only cars with which they can deal in this way are cars licensed for the public service, such as cabs and omnibuses. In reply to the question of the hon. Member opposite, all I can say is that I am claiming further powers under the Bill, but I cannot say how that Bill will come through.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is not proper police control on the Great North Road, especially near Finchley, where there have been many serious and painful accidents?

The hon. and gallant Member must give notice of that question.

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask for the necessary powers in regard to brakes on private cars?

I should need the assurance of the hon. and gallant Gentleman that he would be prepared to give me the powers without much discussion.

In view of the terrible accident which happened yesterday in Yorkshire, which was undoubtedly caused by defective brakes, will the right hon. Gentleman look into this matter with a view to preventing these terrible accidents in the case of the great big motors?

I will reconsider the matter carefully, and ask the police to give me their views as to whether there are any further powers which could be usefully asked for in this House consistently with public business.

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the large increase in the number of fatal motoring accidents on cross roads recently; and whether, seeing that this is in some measure due to the fact that users of side roads entering or crossing main roads have equal rights with users of main roads, he will consider the advisability of introducing legislation at an early date defining main roads, and placing the onus of responsibility for accident ts of this character on the drivers of the vehicles emerging from smaller roads on to the larger ones?

I am aware that recently there has been a number of fatal accidents at cross roads. The suggestion made by my hon. and gallant Friend has from time to time been considered by my Department. There are serious practical difficulties in giving effect to it, and in view of the tendency it would have to encourage a high rate of speed on the part of vehicles travelling on the main roads I am not convinced that it would necessarily reduce the number of accidents. The matter is, however, again under consideration in connection with proposed legislation, and I would remind my hon. Friend that the Roads Improvement Bill now awaiting Report stage contains provisions for the improvement of blind corners.

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us some examples of the practical difficulties?

Not in answer to a question, but in conversation privately I will.

Is it not the policy of the Minister to impress on all motorists approaching cross roads the necessity of driving with extreme caution?

Is such a law as this not in operation in the United States of America?

What suits one country does not necessarily suit other countries.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that, under the existing system, licences to drive motorcars have been issued to the blind, the deaf, and to those so accustomed to the rule of the road in France that they are inevitably dangerous here if driving when tired or distracted; and whether he will legislate so as to make some test or examination periodically necessary in the case of new licences?

As I have already stated on previous occasions, I am disposed to agree with the conclusion arrived at by the Departmental Committee on the Taxation and Regulation of Road Vehicles, as stated in their Second Interim Report, that any advantages which at first sight might appear likely to result from the institution of tests on the lines indicated, would be outweighed by the expense, difficulties and disadvantages inseparable from any such system.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the National Wool (and Allied) Textile Industrial Council set up, at the instance of the Home Office, a joint sub-committee of employés and employers to advise as to the manner by which the risks attendant on the lifting of heavy beams and warps in the woollen cloth finishing trade could be minimised, and that two years have elapsed since this committee reported their agreement that suitable mechanical appliances should be installed for the use in all processes of woollen cloth manufacture necessitating the lifting of heavy materials and that 150 lbs. be recognised as the maximum weight to be lifted by an adult male by hand; and when will the Home Office give legal sanction to the agreed proposals by the issue of an appropriate Order?

Yes, Sir; but the original recommendation dealt only with the weights to be lifted by adult males, and at the request of the Home Office the investigation was extended to cover the weights to be lifted by women and young persons. It has now been completed, and Regulations under the Factory and Workshop Act embodying the recommendations have been issued in draft and will, I hope, be made shortly. I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what he means by "shortly"? Does he expect it in a month or two?

I hope within a month it will be issued in draft. I will send a copy at once to the hon. Member.

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether the number of women and young persons engaged in dealing with warps and warp lifting is pretty numerous?

I am afraid I must have notice of that.

asked the Home Secretary whether the late Mr. Hudson, in whose honour a memorial has recently been put up in Hyde Park, was a British subject; and, if so, whether by birth or naturalisation?

The late Mr. Hudson was a British subject in virtue of the grant to him of a certificate of naturalisation in 1900.

asked the Home Secretary whether, seeing that there are a number of persons at present in this country of Russian nationality whom it is wished to deport owing to their undesirable character and seditious activities here, and to whom the Soviet Government refuse permission to land in Russia, he will state what further action will be taken to get rid of these undesirables who are enabled to keep in touch with Russian revolutionary organisation through the agency of members of the Russian trade delegations?

An alien cannot be deported from the United Kingdom except to a country of which he is recognised as a national. Where the removal of an alien, whether Russian or otherwise, has proved impracticable owing to the impossibility of obtaining such national recognition, all necessary steps are taken, e.g., by the imposition of special restrictions, to ensure effective supervision of his activities so long as he remains in the country.

Can the right hon. Gentleman get into touch with the Foreign Office and see whether they can bring pressure to bear in order that these undesirable Russian nationals should not be dumped here, but should go back to their own country?

We have constantly made efforts to get the Russian Government to accept some of their nationals back, but I am afraid they do not want them back.

Will the right hon. Gentleman get into touch with the Foreign Office and see whether they will assist his Department in this matter?

I am not only in touch with the Foreign Office, but they are already assisting.

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the fact that it is left to the discretion of a Magistrate to order the deportation of an alien who has been duly convicted of an offence under the laws of this country, and in view of the widespread feeling prevailing that when an alien has been so convicted he should be forthwith deported, he will introduce legislation to the end that such alien or aliens shall on conviction be automatically expelled the country?

A Magistrate has no power to order deportation; he can only recommend to the Secretary of State. In my view, the existing system is working well, and many undesirable aliens are being deported.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the increasing number of conflicts between opposing gangs of men in various parts of the country; whether he can state what causes are known to the police for the conflicts other than those associated with betting or gambling; in how many cases during the last five years the conflicts have had fatal results; in how many cases Police Court proceedings have taken place on the initiative of the police, and in how many cases on the initiative of members of the gangs; and what steps he is taking to bring to an end this growing menace?

To collect the detailed information for which the hon. Member asks would be a lengthy and difficult business, but I may say generally that, in spite of certain notorious cases, I do not feel by any means sure that ruffianism of the type to which the hon. Member refers has increased, and I have no reason to doubt that the ordinary machinery of the law is sufficient to cope with it.

asked the President of the Board of Education the total expenditure on school buildings by local authorities for each year since 1905, and what propor- tion of this expenditure has been borne each year out of national funds?

I am afraid that the material for a complete answer to this question is not available. The hon. Member will, however, find a detailed statement of the capital expenditure incurred by local authoririties over a series of years on pages 11 and 12 of the Memorandum on the Board's Estimates, 1925–26 [Cmd. 2386], a copy of which I am sending him. Until 1919 the Board did not make grants to local authorities in aid of school buildings; since 1919 the loan charges, together with such capital expenditure as is charged to revenue account, have ranked for the Board's grants which are based on expenditure, at the rate of 50 per cent. for higher education and at the rate of 20 per cent. for elementary education.

asked the Minister of Health how many schemes for the building of State-assisted houses by means of direct labour have been sanctioned by his Department; whether the results derived have been satisfactory; and, if so, is he prepared to encourage the extension of this method of providing houses?

Up to the 1st May last 58 local authorities had undertaken work by direct labour on schemes approved under the Housing Acts of 1923 and 1924. I regret that I have not sufficient data to enable me to say whether the results of direct labour schemes have in all oases been satisfactory. A fair comparison between the costs of houses built by this method and houses erected by contract can only be made if all the conditions such as time, place and type of house are precisely similar. As I have previously informed the hon. Member, I am quite prepared to authorise local authorities to undertake building by direct labour if satisfied that the authority can make efficient arrangements for the supervision of the work, and that the method is likely to prove financially advantageous to the ratepayers.

How much more data does the right hon. Gentleman require, and how much longer time must elapse before his Department can express an opinion as to the efficacy of building by-direct labour?

We shall have to wait until we have sufficient data. When that will be I cannot say.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these schemes have been in operation for over two years, and has he not got sufficient data to give a report on the first year's working?

The right hon. Gentleman says that he has not, and the hon. Member is only repeating the question.

asked the Minister of Health whether he can state for the last convenient date how many houses have been completed under the 1923 and 1924 Housing Acts, respectively?

On the 1st May last, the latest date for which figures were available, the number of houses completed in connection with schemes under the Housing Acts of 1923 and 1924 were 76,809 and 3,259 respectively.

Have any of these houses which have been completed been built under direct labour?

I could not say without notice.

asked the Minister of Health the names of the local authorities which have obtained approval from his Department to erect Telford and Atholl houses, respectively, and the average price in each case for non-parlour and parlour houses?

Apart from the demonstration houses, approval has been given for the erection of Telford houses as follows: So far as I am aware, the only Atholl houses at present being erected by local authorities in England and Wales are for demonstration purposes. These are non-parlour houses and the price is £450 per house, including foundations and all work inside the foundations, but excluding paths, drains and fences.

In the case of the Telford houses are trade union prices paid? Has any agreement been come to with the trade unions?

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the comparison between the Telford house and the brick house of the non-parlour type?

I must have notice of the last question. There is no dispute about trade union rates or conditions in the case of the Telford houses.

asked the Minister of Health what steps the Government are taking for dealing with cases of profiteering by tenants who, protected themselves by the Rent Restriction Acts, exact exorbitant rents from sub-tenants?

Where subtenants of houses to which the Rent Acts apply are charged excessive rents, they can apply to the Courts, to have the proper rent determined, but as has already been stated, I have been in communication with the Law Officers of the Crown with a view to action in suitable cases by the Public Prosecutor, and County Court Judges have been asked to bring to his notice any cases which come before them in which the penal provisions of the Rent Acts are being infringed.

Does that answer mean that the Penal Clause is to be put into operation, in order that sub-tenants who are frightened to take action may be protected?

Yes, Sir. If we can find a case in which we have sufficient evidence to warrant a prosecution, that prosecution will take place.

asked the Minister of Health what is the reason for keeping up, and in some cases- ing, the oakum task, in extending the stone-pounding task to all unions, and in increasing in some cases the stone-pounding task; and whether he will suspend the stone-pounding task?

With regard to oakum picking, I have stated that I propose to indicate to boards of guardians that this task should not in future be imposed. The recent Consolidating Order included stone-pounding as one of the alternative tasks in view of the fact that a large number of unions already had authority to use it. The order brings the task for one night into the same relation to that for two nights as is laid down in the Order of 1882 for the time to be occupied in the task. I do not propose to limit the discretion of boards of guardians in regard to the use of stone-pounding as an alternative task.

Has the right hon. Gentleman compared the task set to prisoners in our prisons, felons and others, with that set to poor people, who are homeless, inside the workhouse?

The hon. Member seems to think that the task set in these cases is a penalty. It is merely a test.

I have had some connection with boards of guardians and I know. [HON. MEMBERS: "Speech!'] Does the right hon. Gentleman not know that these tasks are set in order to prevent people who are homeless and destitute from coming in?

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the output demanded from these people is greater than the output demanded from the felon who is in prison? Does he agree that that sort of thing should continue?

I decline to admit that there is any comparison between the two cases.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that Article 7 of the Casual Paupers (Relief) Order, 1925, requires that suitable night clothing shall be supplied; that Article 16 (1) requires that proper sleeping accommodation, bed clothing, and means of communication shall be pro- vided; and that neither of these articles makes it obligatory upon workhouse authorities to supply clean night clothing or clean bed clothing; and whether, in view of the fact that on grounds of health night clothing and bed clothing should be clean, he will amend the Order by having the word "clean " inserted in both cases and so remove any ambiguity?

I think that night clothing or bed clothing could not be regarded as suitable or proper if they were not clean; and my officers will act upon this view in inspecting casual wards.

asked the Minister of Health what are the figures for the years 1914 and 1924 of the mentally defective inmates and the total number of inmates of workhouses: and under what conditions mentally defective persons are refused admission to workhouses?

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

Following is the reply:

The total numbers of person in receipt of Poor Law relief in Poor Law institutions on the 1st January, 1914, and 1st January, 1924, were 248,030 and 203,757. The number of inmates of such institutions on 1st January, 1914, who were insane was 19,965. In addition there was an unknown number of mentally defective persons. The number of mentally defective persons, including insane persons, in receipt of Poor Law relief in such institutions on 1st January, 1924, was 25,207. As regards the last part of the question, perhaps the hon. Member will let me have particulars of the class of case he has in, mind.

also asked the Minister of Health how many workhouses refused to admit vagrants in 1914 and 1924; what are the reasons for this refusal; and whether he contemplates any change in the present administration?

In 105 unions outside the Metropolis the guardians are, with my approval, not required to provide accommodation for casuals on the ground that the proximity of other casual wards makes it unnecessary to keep both sets of wards open. I am unable to say in how many unions provision was not made for the reception of vagrants in 1914. I should add that, wherever a ward is closed with my approval, arrangements are required to be made for the admission of any casual, if the master is satisfied that he is unable to proceed to the next casual ward.

asked the Minister of Health the number of boards of guardians who still keep the children in the Poor Law institutions commonly known as workhouses; and whether he can bring any pressure upon these guardians to provide more suitable accommodation for these young persons?

I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the Regulation governing this matter, from which he will see that guardians may only retain children in workhouses temporarily in special circumstances. Constant attention is given by my officers to the question of the provision of separate accommodation where this has not already been provided.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that twin girls, aged 10 months, named Irene and Marjory Garrard, inmates of the institution of the Lambeth Board of Guardians, were vaccinated by the guardians' doctor shortly after admission to the institution, although the father of the children had obtained a certificate of exemption from vaccination in respect of both children: that one of the children died after the inoculation, the other still being an inmate of the infirmary; and will he state what action is being taken in this matter to safeguard the interests of those who have a conscientious objection to vaccination and secure exemption from their children's inoculation?

My attention has been called to this case and I am awaiting a report from the guardians, who are holding an investigation. I will communicate further with the hon. Member when that report is received.

Will the right hon. Gentleman circulate among the responsible authorities throughout the country a notification to the effect that where parents leave children in an infirmary, and where they have the necessary exemption certificate, the children shall not be vaccinated in their absence?

I prefer to await the report to which I have referred.

asked the Minister of Health whether, under the widows', orphans' and old age pension contributory scheme, a person insured under the National Health Insurance Acts will be entitled, after reaching the age of 65 years, to receive medical benefit and/or additional benefits either in cash or kind?

The existing position with regard to benefits under the National Health Insurance Act is not affected by the provisions of the Bill before 2nd January, 1928. As from 2nd January, 1928, members of an approved society will be entitled, after they attain the age of 65, to medical benefit and to any non-cash additional benefits provided by the society, but they will not be entitled to any additional benefits payable in cash.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is considering the deterrent effect upon emigration of the Pensions Bill as now planned; and whether provision will be made so that, upon migration within the Empire, a man or woman can draw a lump sum equivalent to the current value of his or her benefits, thus giving ready cash to a migrant when it is most needed?

asked the Minister of Health whether it will be possible under the pension proposals of the Government for payments to be made to those who migrate overseas; and whether, in view of the importance of encouraging emigration, steps will be taken administratively to secure the rights of such persons?

I regret that it is impossible within the finance of the Pensions Bill to make any payments to insured persons on emigration. Such payments would be in the nature of refund of contributions, but as shown in Table VI of the Report of the Government Actuary, the cost of pensions and allowances will considerably exceed the whole receipts from contributions from 1928 onwards, and after a short initial period, therefore, no fund arising out of contributions will be in existence. If provision were to be made for return of contributions in any circumstances it would be necessary to diminish pensions or other benefits of the scheme. To the general objections to such a course must be added the fact that all emigrants who subsequently return to this country and take up employment will re-enter insurance on the ordinary terms, and will not be called upon to make good any loss sustained by the scheme by the intermission of their contributions during the period of their absence.

asked the Prime Minister when the Committee stage of the Widows, Orphans, and Old Age Contributory Pensions Bill will be taken?

I am not yet in a position to announce a date.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that he himself this week, in a letter to the Tory candidate at Ayr, informed the electorate there that this Bill would, he hoped, be on the Statute Book within a few months? Now he cannot answer the question.

asked the Minister of Health if he has received a copy of a resolution recently passed by a conference of labour women asking that medical officers at maternity centres should be allowed to give information on birth control to married women who desired it; and whether he is now prepared to accede to the request contained in the resolution?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, I am in agreement with the views of my predecessors that institutions provided at the cost of public funds should not be used for so controversial a purpose with- out express directions from Parliament. In the case of women attending maternity or infant welfare centres who, on medical grounds, appear to need such information as is mentioned in the question. my view is that these cases should be referred to a private doctor or a hospital.

In view of the national importance of this subject, is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to receive a deputation of Members of this House on this matter?

Certainly.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the guardians of the Sheffield Union have passed a resolution calling attention to the recent action of the Ministry of Labour in disallowing State unemployment benefit, and calling attention to the fact that an increasing number of able bodied men are making claims upon the guardians, and that, as these men are insured against unemployment nationally, the insurance benefits are a national obligation and not one for the local ratepayers; and whether he proposes to take any action in the direction of relieving this overburdened area?

I have received a copy of this resolution. As regards the remainder of the question I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to a previous question put by him on the 26th March last.

Has the right hon. Gentleman communicated with the Minister of Labour in this matter? I think the Minister of Labour has had representations made to him.

I am in constant communication with the Minister of Labour.

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the statement in the Report of the Select Committee on Estimates regarding the selec- tion of sites for Employment Exchanges; and whether, in the interests of economy, he will cause a special investigation to be made into the cost of these sites with a view to removing those Exchanges now occupying prominent positions in main commercial thoroughfares into equally convenient, but less expensive, situations?

The most careful inquiries will be made by the Treasury and the Departments concerned with a view to making very possible economy, and with this intention I am communicating further with the Committee on particular recommendations.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is not only a question of economy, but of men having to stand in main streets exposed to view when waiting outside the Exchanges, sometimes for hours at a time?

I saw the recommendations of the Committee in summarised form and was much interested in what they said.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of making it easier for casual workers to get to the Exchanges? At the present time in the Silvertown district men have to walk two miles to Poplar—casual workers.

The hon. Member should address questions on that point to the Minister of Labour.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why, seeing that in 1911 £183,585 was expended under the Unemployed Workmen Act, only £41,828 was expended under this Act in 1923; what is the estimated expenditure under this Act for the year 1925–26; and whether there is any possibility of a reduction of administrative expenses, as it cost £6,517 to distribute or expend £41,828 in 1923?

I have been asked to reply. The figures for 1911 and 1923 which the hon. Member quotes are not strictly comparable, as the latter does not include the cost of payments made to the Distress Committees for works carried out by them on behalf of local authorities. These payments amounted to £69,260. Estimates of the expenditure of Distress Committees are not submitted to me. As regards the last part of the question I will consider whether anything can be done to secure a reduction of the administrative expenses of the Distress Committees, but I would remind the hon. Member that these bodies are committees of the local authorities.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, seeing that the expenditure under the Unemployment Acts for the year 1924 was £41,010,817 and the cost of administration was £4,035,057, he has any proposals to reduce the administrative expenses?

I have been asked to reply. The estimated total cost of administration for the last financial year was £4,328,000, or about 8.7 per cent. of the revenue of the Unemployment Fund. This figure includes, in addition to the expenditure of the Ministry, all costs incurred by other Government Departments ( e.g., the General Post Office, His Majesty's Office of Works, His Majesty's Stationery Office) in connection with the administration of unemployment insurance. In view of these figures, I do not think it can reasonably be suggested that the expenditure on the administration of the Unemployment Insurance Acts is excessive, but it is under constant review and every effort is made to effect economy, consistent with efficient administration. I should add, perhaps, that the total cost of administration (up to a maximum of 12½ per cent.) is borne by the Unemployment Fund.

asked the Minister of Labour the percentages of unemployment in the musical, motor and watch and clock industries for the month of April, 1922, 1923 and 1924 respectively?

At 27th April, 1924, the percentage of unemployment among workpeople covered by the Unemployment Insurance Acts was 91 in the musical instrument trades, and 6.7 in the construction and repair of motor cars, motor lorries, motor omnibuses, motor cycles, cycles and aircraft. A similar percentage cannot be given for the watch and clock industry, as the figures are not separately distinguishable. Comparable figures for dates prior to June, 1923, are not available owing to changes made at that time in the method of classification of industries.

Do I understand that the figure the hon. Member gives as regards the motor trade is in respect of construction only?

The figure I have given is given in answer to a question which asks what are the number employed in the motor industry.

Can the hon. Gentleman give the corresponding figures for a year ago and the present time in respect of the piano trade, separated from the other figures?

I should like to have notice of that question. I have not got them here.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has yet set up the Committee of Inquiry into the organisation of employment exchanges and the administration of unemployment benefit; and is he in a position to make a statement on the matter to the House?

No, Sir. For the present, we are setting in hand certain official investigations which will necessarily occupy some little time, and the question of appointing a Committee will be dealt with later.

Can the hon. Gentleman say what kind of Committee it is proposed to appoint?

No, Sir. I cannot say anything more than my right hon. Friend said the other day. that he is going to set up a Committee.

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of putting some unemployed workers on the Committee of Inquiry?

asked the Minister of Labour what are the reasons for not complying with the request of the Don-caster local employment committee that they should each be supplied with a copy of the Unemployment Insurance (No. 2) Act; and whether, in future, he will direct that all members of such committees shall be supplied with copies of the Act if they so desire?

A limited number of copies of the Unemployment Insurance (No. 2) Act, 1924, has been supplied for the use of the Doncaster local employment committee in addition to the file of all Unemployment Insurance Acts which is available for -reference at the local Employment Exchange. My right hon. Friend has already explained personally to the chairman of the committee that there is no sufficient justification for saddling the Unemployment Fund with the expense of supplying copies of the Unemployment Insurance Acts to individual members of local employment committees. The effect of the Acts, together with full notes for the guidance of committees has always been supplied to members of committees in a series of memoranda, recently consolidated in a booklet. A copy of this booklet is available in the Library of the House.

Is it too much to ask that in cases where members of these committees are sufficiently interested in the work to ask for a copy each, that they should have one?

My right hon. Friend is anxious to avoid all unnecessary expense, and he has come to the conclusion that the arrangement made for the information of local committees is sufficient. This is a pretty considerable document, and one does not, naturally, want to undertake unnecessary printing.

Would not the hon. Member admit that where a person is sufficiently interested to want a copy the expense of 6d. ought not to stand in the road of his having one?

I will represent that to my right hon. Friend and tell him what the hon. Gentleman said. But my right hon. Friend has already stated that the present arrangements are, in his view, adequate.

asked the Minister of Health if, in view of the Metropolitan borough councils being unable to deposit the valuation lists by the 1st June, in accordance with Section 42 of the Metropolis (Valuation) Act of 1869, owing to the wholesale revisions consequent on the new Valuation Bill now before Parliament, he will take steps to legalise the deposit after that date of valuation lists which may be delayed for this reason?

The point is under consideration; but I am advised that the provisions of the Section referred to have been held by the Courts to be directory only, and that failure to deposit a valuation list by 1st June does not affect its validity.

asked the Prime Minister, in view of the announcement that a Food Council is to be at once set up, as recommended by the Geddes Commission, whether the House will have an opportunity to discuss the Report before such a council is constituted?

If there is a general desire for an opportunity to discuss the Report of the Royal Commission on Food Prices, it will no doubt be possible to find one.

How can that desire be expressed by hon. Members who are anxious that an opportunity should be given?

In the usual way.

Do I understand that the Prime Minister intends to proceed without first having a Debate in the House on the important Report of this Commission?

If the hon. Member is referring to the setting up of the Food Council, the Government have full power to set up any council on any subject, provided it does not require statutory powers.

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it advisable to set up a council with its' terms of reference before the matter has been considered and debated by the House?

I do not say whether I think it advisable or not. I merely say we have the powers.

asked the Prime Minister the name of the Chairman of the new Food Council, and also the members who will be invited to serve on it?

I have been asked to reply. No invitations have yet been sent to anyone to serve on the proposed Food Council. I hope, however, to be able to make a statement shortly on this matter.

Has the attention of the hon. Gentleman been called to the Press report this morning, that the Chief of the Food Department of the Board of Trade has resigned, and the explanation given is that he has refused the Chairmanship of this Council on the ground that it was not given statutory powers?

Yes, my attention has been called to the statement in the Press, and all I can do is to repeat the answer which I have given, that no invitations have been sent to anybody.

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether there have been, inside the Department, actual negotiations with the official in question?

I hardly think that arises out of the question. I have been asked a specific question, and I have given an answer.

In view of the fact that eight out of twelve of the members of this Council are to be nominees of the Government, may I ask, without unduly disparaging the Government, whether it would not inspire greater public confidence if a larger proportion of the members were direct representatives of the consumers?

I do not think that arises out of the original question.

( by Private Notice )asked the Prime Minister whether the Government have decided to disband the Royal Commission on Food Prices, and to transfer its functions to the proposed Food Council; and, if so, what steps have been taken in the matter?

As I announced yesterday, the Government, having decided to adopt in principle the main recommendation made in the Report of the Royal Commission, and to appoint a Food Council, do not propose to ask that Commission to continue their inquiry further.

Will he answer the last part of my question as to what steps are being taken in the matter of transferring the functions?

No steps at present. The matter is under consideration.

Will the Prime Minister, in view of the importance of this matter and of the fact that he is going to disband this Commission, be prepared to receive deputations of organised consumers with regard to the whole situation and with regard to the constitution of the Council to which he proposes to transfer the functions of this Commission, and also with regard to the question of legislation?

Of course I will consider that, but I cannot give a definite answer at this moment.

Will the right hon. Gentleman be careful not to add to the enormous body of bureaucracy in this country, who can do nothing but cause mischief?

You ought to sack some of the K. C.s.

asked the Prime Minister the names of those members of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council who are not already in receipt of salaries or pensions by virtue of their services as Judges, but receive salaries for their services on the Judicial Committee; and what is the salary payable in each case?

Sir John Edge and Mr. Ameer-Ali receive under Section 30 of the Judicial Committee Act, 1833, the sum of £400 per annum each " as an indemnity for the expense which they … incur" by reason of their attendance at the Judicial Committee, together with a bonus upon that sum in respect of the increased cost of living, which amounts to £120 a year. Each of these gentlemen is in receipt of an annuity for past services as a Judge in India. No other member of the Judicial Committee receives any salary, pension, or other payment in respect of his service upon the Committee in addition to such salary or pension, if any, as he may receive in respect of his past services as a Lord Chancellor or a Judge.

Will the right hon. Gentleman present a time sheet, showing the number of hours put in by these gentlemen?

It is a matter of quality rather than quantity.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, owing to his absence in Geneva, will be prevented from making any Report to this House for some days to come, His Majesty's Government will give information as to the instructions given to him, and will issue an explanatory statement showing what obligations this country is undertaking in the proposed Pact in order to prevent incorrect speculations and mischievous rumours?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave yesterday to the hon. Member for Orkney and Shetland (Sir R. Hamilton).

I do not wish to press the Prime Minister, but I would ask whether the fact that the Government have agreed to the reply which the French Government are sending to Germany does not mean that this country has undertaken certain specific obligations and guarantees, and should not the House be informed of these at the earliest possible moment?

The House will be informed at the earliest possible moment fully. As I explained yesterday in a rather long answer which I gave, the present situation is that this Note is going or has gone to Germany, and it will be some days before a reply can be received from them. It is only in the event of that country being willing to enter into further negotiations that we shall get to close terms, which would follow on the declaration made in the House of Commons by the Foreign Secretary. The Debate which will take place in Parliament will take place prior to any possible discussions that have a direct bearing on any Pact with Germany.

asked the Prime Minister when he proposes to appoint the members of the proposed Imperial Economic Committee?

The Imperial Economic Committee was set up last March, and I am sending the hon. Member a copy of a communiqué which was published in the Press on the 6th March and which will, I think, give him all the information he desires.

I do not think the right hon. Gentleman is referring to the body which I have in mind.

I beg the hon. Member's pardon. He asked about the Imperial Economic Committee. There is a definite body bearing that name, and the communiqué which I am sending him gives information about it. Perhaps if the hon. Member had some other body in mind, he will put down another question.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what financial contributions His Majesty's Government and the Governments of the Overseas Dominions and Colonies, respectively, make towards the Imperial Bureau of Entomology?

As the reply involves a large number of figures, I propose, with the consent of the hon. and gallant Member, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Is there any indication that the extremely valuable work of this bureau is being hampered by lack of funds?

I will look into that, but I am not aware of the fact.

Following is the reply:

The contributions from the Imperial and Oversea Governments to the Imperial Bureau of Entomology for the year 1925–26 will be as follow:

In addition to these contributions, the Government of Iraq pays at present to the Bureau rupees 1,000 a year for ser-vices rendered, more particularly in respect of identification work. The question of annual grants for the upkeep of he Bureau for the five-year period 1926 (1926–27) to 1930 (1930–31), inclusive, will be taken up when the Report of the Imperial Entomological Conference, which is now meeting in London, has been received.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now prepared to take steps, through the appropriate channels, to encourage the issue of foreign loans in this country, and thus increase employment and trade in Great Britain?

As I have stated before, the placing of foreign loans in London is a matter for the judgment of the market. I would only add that I do not think that excessive issues of external loans are in the interests of trade and employment.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Bank of England authorities are now obstructing loans of this character, which responsible issuing houses in this country are willing to undertake?

That is not a matter of ministerial responsibility.

asked the Prime Minister the number of persons now drawing pensions as ex-Lords Chancellor, their names, the total charge on the Consolidated Fund due to such pensions, and the other payments, if any, made to each of these persons from public funds?