asked the Minister of Pensions whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Mr. Norris Lumb, of 46, Town End, Golcar, near Hudders-field, who lost the sight of his right eye from a gunshot wound while serving in Russia and who is suffering from defective vision in the left eye consequent on the injury to the right eye; and, as he has not received any compensation, apart from the supply of glasses, from the Ministry in respect of the growing disability in the left eye, he will arrange for Mr. Lumb to be medically examined with a view to an increase in his pension in accordance with the degree of disablement?

The claim in this case that defective vision of the left eye is consequent upon the injury for which the man is in receipt of pension could not be accepted by the Ministry, and this decision was confirmed by the Pensions Appeal Tribunal on appeal by the man in September, 1923. With regard to the last part of the question, I may say that in response to representations which were subsequently made the case has been specially reviewed, and Mr. Lumb has been examined by a specially constituted Medical Board, which found, however, that the only defect of the left eye was a slight error of refraction which could not in any way be associated with his War service. In these circumstances there are no grounds on which I could adopt the suggestion of the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Pensions how many medical gentlemen are now employed by his Department throughout the country as medical referees or in any other capacity; what fees are paid; what is the total cost per annum; and whether the appointments are whole or part time?

There are 338 medical officers now in the regular employment of the Ministry, of whom 252 are employed in a full-time and 86 in a part-time capacity. Of the full-time officers 50 are permanent civil servants, and the remainder are serving under contracts of temporary service varying from one month to three years. The total cost of these officers for the financial year ended the 31st March, 1926, was £261,'185, and the estimated cost for the current financial years is £222,240. In addition to the medical staff in regular employment, it is still necessary to have frequent recourse to the assistance of private medical practitioners who act as examining medical officers (formerly described as medical referees), members of medical boards, supervisors of clinics, visiting surgeons, anæsthetists, etc., and are paid fees varying from £5 5s. to 5s. according to the nature of the services rendered. The total number now employed is 1,752, and the fees paid during the financial year ended the 31st March last amounted to £230,446.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that H. Hickey, of 41, Athol Street, Earlestown, Lancashire, driver, 10th Division, 57th Howitzer Brigade, was awarded a pension of 12s. 6d. a week in 1915 for an injury to his leg, that after being in several hospitals for treatment his wound apparently healed and his pension stopped in 1921; that since then he has been in Moseley Hill Hospital for the same wound, but was informed that the time for pension had passed, and that he has been and is again under medical treatment; and whether he will inquire whether this is a case where a pension should again be paid?

I find on inquiry into the facts of this case that there is no record of the man having been wounded. He did not serve overseas. His service, which extended from September, 1914, to May, 1915, was entirely at home. He was discharged unfit at the latter date on account of a disability due to an old injury to his right leg. The injury had been received some years before enlistment while the man was playing football, but compensation was temporarily awarded in respect of aggravation by military service. Treatment for the condition was subsequently given, and on its termination in November, 1921, it was decided that the effects of any aggravation of the pre-existing disability had disappeared. Along with the notification of this decision to Mr. Hickey, he was informed of his right of appeal to the Pensions Appeal Tribunal, but he did not take advantage of his right. I have no evidence to show that the man's present condition is due to his War service.

Is there nothing in this man's record to show that he had been kicked by a mule while serving?

I understand that the incident in question occurred in connection with football; a mule, I think, was not concerned.

If this man's disability had been due to war service, which the answer says it was not, would he now have been entitled to a pension for it?

That is a hypothetical question.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the present coal stoppage, he proposes to limit the hours of music and dancing in clubs and restaurants?

I am advised that I have no power to limit the hours of music and dancing in clubs and restaurants.

Do I understand that under these Regulations the right hon. Gentleman has not the power to prevent these dancing clubs going on till two o'clock in the morning, when vital railway services are being suspended?

I can only repeat that I am advised that under the Emergency Regulations I have not the power. If the hon. and gallant Gentleman desires to confer more powers upon meߞ—

If the right hon. Gentleman will seek powers, I will gladly put my name at the back of the Bill.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that we were advised by the hon. and gallant Member for Central Hull (Lieut.-Commander Ken-worthy), last night, to keep cheerful?

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that they were most lugubrious over there?

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the Welsh Board of Health are advising that no relief under the maternity and child welfare scheme be given to relieve distress arising out of the dispute in the mining industry, but that such relief be given by the guardians of the poor, and that the Newport, Monmouthshire, Poor Law Union protest against this additional burden being placed on the funds of this Union without any additional Grant-in-aid; and will he consider cancelling this policy?

It is no part of the maternity and child welfare scheme to relieve distress. Milk can only be supplied under that scheme to mothers and young children who are certified to need such a supply on medical grounds. The policy which has been adopted in this matter by the Welsh Board of Health, on my instruction, is as follows: While there should be no discrimination against the wives or children of men involved in the present dispute, no additional expenditure beyond that already approved for the supply of milk during the current financial year can be recognised for the Exchequer Grant-in-aid. If therefore, a maternity and child welfare authority spend more money on milk because of the dispute, the additional expenditure must be found out of the rates, but the better course would be that the distress arising out of the dispute should be dealt with by the guardians. I see no reason to modify or cancel this policy.

asked the Minister of Health whether boards of guardians are acting with his approval when they cut down the relief of the wives of trade unionists out of work and destitute from 10s. to 5s. a week whenever lock-out pay of 10s. has been received by the men, although there is no poor relief whatever for the men so assisted by their trade unions?

In considering an application for relief it is the duty of the guardians to take into account all relevant facts including any income received by a member of the household. In the case put it would appear that the guardians have regarded half the strike pay as available for the wife's support. The practice of guardians on this matter varies in different parts of the country and I am not prepared to say that what has been done in this case is unreasonable.

May I ask whether there are many boards of guardians that adopt this excessively mean method of penalising the wives of trade unionists?

I am not prepared to accept that description of the action of the guardians.

Can he say how many do it?

If the hon. Member will put down a- question on that point, I will answer it.

Has the right hon. Gentleman taken any steps whatever to ensure that adequate relief is given?

That is not my duty; it is the duty of the guardians.

Will the Minister of Health say whether the auditors of the Ministry of Health have any power to force guardians to give a lower scale of relief than they consider proper?

The Minister said that he was not responsible, but the guardians were responsible. Is it not the case that he is the Minister of Health, and he is responsible for the health of the people of this country ( Interruption. ]He is the Minister of Death, that is what he is, and he looks it. [HON. MEMBERS: "Withdraw, withdraw!"]

Order, order!

Arising out of the reply of the Minister to the effect that it is the duty of the guardians to provide adequate relief, will the right hon. Gentleman state whether his Department has not in the past two weeks denied the West Ham Guardians that particular right?

I think that question should be put down on the Order Paper.

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker, may I remind you that the question which I put to the Minister arose directly out of the answer which he gave, and I would like to know upon what grounds you rule that my question should be put down on the Paper?

I would like to point out to the hon. Member that we have only reached Question No. 30, and it is now 3.30.

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker, I wish to ask if it is in order for an hon. Member to call one of the Ministers the "Minister of Death," and to say that "he looks it"?

I did not catch the hon. Member's remark, but if it was as stated, then it was a very improper remark. [HON. MEMBERS: "Withdraw!"]

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker, as you have just stated that the hon. Member ought to withdraw his remark, if that was what he said, are you going to ask him to withdraw that statement?

I have expressed my opinion about it. I know the hon. Member for Dumbarton Burghs (Mr. Kirkwood) makes these interjections. But I do not think it is worth more notice, and perhaps the way I have dealt with it is the most effective.

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government is prepared to take at once the legislative and administrative action necessary to make effective the recommendations of the Coal Commission?

The task of making effective the recommendations of the Royal Commission must rest primarily and mainly with the industry itself. But the Government, although the rejection of their proposals by the owners and miners has left them with liberty of action, are continuing the preparation of legislative and administrative measures indicated in those proposals.

Will these Measures be introduced before very long?

I have every reason to believe that there may be some opportunity for discusion before many days are past, when I shall be pleased to go into the matter.

May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is prepared to give effect to these recommendations provided that, say, one party is willing to accept them?

Perhaps my hon. Friend would be good enough to await the discussion, which I think will arise before long.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT the names of the mineral royalty owners in the West Yorkshire mining area?

The information desired by the hon. Member is not in my possession. It could only be obtained by reference to the returns furnished by the royalty owners for the purpose of Mineral Rights Duty, and, as these returns are confidential, the Board of Inland Revenue are precluded from disclosing any information contained in them.

Can the right hon. Gentleman explain why it is that I can get the names of any poor persons who are receiving outdoor relief, but I cannot get the names of the people who are taking out of the coal industry all this money every year?

I can only repeat that this particular information for which the hon. Member asks is not at the disposal of the Treasury.

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell me where I can get this information, which I think ought to be public property, in order that we may know who these people are?

May I ask whether the Act of Parliament under which this duty is collected was an Act of a Parliament in which the Government was supported by the Leader of the Opposition?

Are all the Members of the Parliamentary Labour party prepared to make public all the details of their own private incomes? [ Interruption ]

If the right hon. Gentleman has not the information at his disposal in his Department, will he not consult the Mines Department, and is he not aware that there exists a Catalogue of Mines, from which he can get this information?

The hon. Member is quite as able to approach the Mines Department as I am.

rose —

Mr. Duckworth.

On a point of Order. The Financial Secretary, in his reply, said that the information given to the Inland Revenue Department was confidential. I want to know whether he cannot give what he is asked—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"]—whether it is in order for him to state that it is confidential when what he is asked for are the names, and not the facts and figures given by these individuals in putting forward the returns to the Treasury? He is only asked for the names, and not for their financial statements.

The Minister has already replied to that question.

I venture to put before you, Mr. Speaker, the question whether we are not suffering daily from the fact that the Rule that every Member must resume his seat when you rise is, not once, but habitually broken? [ Interruption. ]

I do my best to maintain that Rule, and I would ask the support of the House in doing so.

( by Private Notice )asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the deepening distress in the country and the failure of the conversations between men and owners on Tuesday, the Government now propose to take any action, either legislative or administrative, to create conditions from which a settlement of the dispute may come.

I am keeping the situation under review but am not in a position to make any further statement at the moment.

Does the Prime Minister not consider that a time has arrived when the Government ought to take possession of the coal mines, and work them in the interests of the country?

Will the men work? [HON. MEMBERS: "Yes!"]

Will the hon. Member work in a coal mine?

I put my supplementary question to the Prime Minister in. all seriousness. I hope he will treat it in all seriousness, and give an answer

In all seriousness, I say "No"

asked the Home Secretary why Herr Leipart, President of the General Federation of German Trade Unions, and Herr Knoll, a member of the German Federation, have been refused permission to enter England for the proposed congress on 22nd June?

I think the hon. and gallant Member must be misinformed. The two persons mentioned have received visas, and I know of no reason to anticipate that they will have difficulty in obtaining leave to land in the United Kingdom if and when they apply.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I regret very much that I have been misinformed?

asked the Home Secretary whether he can give approximate figures of the number of alien Communists in this country; whether the whereabouts of the majority are known to the police; and whether they are being returned as opportunity occurs to their respective native lands?

It would not be desirable to give the figures asked for in the first part of the question; but the hon. Member may rest assured that the doings of all Communists, alien or otherwise, receive all necessary attention. I do not hesitate, whenever I am satisfied that an alien is undesirable, and opportunity offers, to order his deportation to his own country.

Does my right hon. Friend agree that there are still far too many of these undesirable aliens in this country, and can he say how many there are?

I can get figures in reply to the last point if the hon. Gentleman will put the question down. I gave them last year, and I can give, approximately, up to date in reply to a question. In regard to the numbers of actual aliens, they are not nearly so large as British-born aliens. The children of aliens born here are British-born.

Can the right hon. Gentleman also give the House the names of the aliens who are connected with the Tory party?

Might I ask are any of them Communists?

Could the Home Secretary inform the House, arising out of the original reply, how many foreigners were presented at Court the other night?

Is it the view of the Home Secretary that the fact that a man is a Communist is sufficient ground for his deportation?

Certainly not. The fact that a man has Communist ideas does not make him a subject of deportation, or for any action by way of prosecution to be taken. It is a question of the activity shown in imparting those ideas to other people.

Then the right hon. Gentleman says that while it is not an offence to hold those views, it is an offence worthy of deportation to express them?

No. My hon. and gallant Friend is too clever. He must not put words into my mouth that I did not use. People are entitled to hold and to express their views, but they are not entitled to endeavour to alter the Constitution of our country in their own direction by forcible means.

asked the Home Secretary (1) whether he is prepared to introduce legislation, after the Australian precedent, whereby undesirable foreigners of doubtful nationality can be excluded by an examination test;

(2) whether he will legislate in accordance with precedents of American democracies for keeping in quarantine foreigners of doubtful or simulated nationality, and for ordering such undesirables into quarantine pending inquiry as to their nationality and domicile of origin?

Under the existing law all aliens are subject to examination at the port of entry, and those who are undesirable are excluded. Moreover, every person (unless under 16) landing in the United Kingdom is required to be in possession of a passport or other document establishing his nationality. Accordingly, no further legislation is necessary to effect the objects which my hon. Friend has in view.

asked the Home Secretary if he is now in a position to make any statement as to the representations made to him on behalf of the clubs with respect to the hours of supply?

I would refer to the reply which I gave on the 25th March to the hon. and gallant Member for East Fife (Commander Cochrane).

asked the Home Secretary if he has considered, or will consider, the removal of Pentonville Prison to some more suitable spot; and whether there is at present much unused prison accommodation outside the Metropolis?

This would be desirable, but a large initial expenditure would be entailed, and the money could not be found at present. There is no vacant prison near the Metropolis that could take the place of Pentonville.

Is the Secretary of State aware that the Caledonian Road is an important alternative route to the North, and that the road is very narrow at that spot?

I am aware of that. I have closely inspected the prison, and I should very much like to have it moved into the country, but in the present state of our finances it is quite impossible.

asked the Home Secretary whether replies have yet been received from all the Dominion Governments to his attempts to ascertain their views on an amendment of the British Nationality Act to provide that a British woman should not lose her British status by marriage until, by the law of her husband's country, she has acquired his nationality; if so, whether the replies be favourable; and what steps His Majesty's Government have in contemplation in this matter?

I am informed that replies have now been received from all the Dominion Governments except the Government of Canada. The desire has been expressed that the matter should be further discussed at the forthcoming Imperial Conference, and it is hoped to make arrangements accordingly.

asked the Home Secretary what action he proposes to take with regard to the request which he has received from the Poplar Borough Council asking him to receive a deputation from the council?

After careful inquiry regarding the incident in question I came to the conclusion that no useful purpose would be served by my receiving a deputation, and I have so informed the borough council?

Had the right hon. Gentleman received any report from any body other than the police from that district before he took his decision?

No, I will not guarantee that I have, but of course I have not had notice of the question. I think I may say that I am relying and am entitled to rely upon the police reports which I have received.

I have no doubt that the Secretary of State is right in what he says, but at the same time there are a very large number of hon. Members—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"]

asked the Home Secretary if his attention has been called to the case of Mr. H. Taylor, of 44, Albany Road, Roath Park, Cardiff, the secretary of Homeseekers' Federation Limited, who was arrested on 4th February, 1926, and held in custody until 5th February, on the charge of having conspired to defraud Alexander Freeman of £78 3s., being 15 per cent, premium on a house valued at £500; and whether he will take immediate steps to have this trial proceeded with, at once?

I have made inquiries and find that this case was on the 19th April referred by the Justices to the Director of Public Prosecutions for his consideration owing to an application on behalf of the solicitor for the prosecution for permission to withdraw the charge against the defendants, and the defendants have been remanded until Friday, the 11th June, at the request of the Director in order to complete his inquiries, when the case will be dealt with by the Justices.

Is the Home Secretary aware that the charge originally in stituted was withdrawn, and the solicitor who advised was suspended by the Law Society, and that the charge had been kept over the head of this man since the 4th February, and the Director of Public Prosecutions thinks—

The hon. Member knows more of the Director's intentions than I do. I do not know what they are. It is quite true that the charge made was made a long time ago, and was withdrawn. But the Justices who were hearing it came to the conclusion that the papers should be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions, and he, after consideration decided go on, with the prosecution. I cannot say more while the prosecution is pending, because I do not want to prejudge the case.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this Mr. Taylor is being held up and unable to secure employment with wages because of this charge resting over him? He is exceedingly anxious to have the case tried or withdrawn. Why is the delay? Is it that the Public Prosecutor is too busy in his Department to expedite the hearing of this case? Is the Home Secretary aware that it is a very serious reflection upon the administration of justice that any individual should be held up in this way with a charge hanging over his head?

I agree with the hon. Member. I am all for expeditious justice. I had not had my attention called to this case until quite recently. I will ask the Director of Public Prosecutions to direct his attention to the case.

asked the Home Secretary what is the attitude of His Majesty's Government towards the contributions made to the funds of the Miners' Federation from the Russian Government during the present dispute?

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that among the sums received on behalf of the miners' funds during the present dispute are contributions made by the Russian Soviet; and whether he will reconsider the question of exercising his powers under Regulation 13A of the Emergency Powers Regulations to prohibit the entry of such contributions into this country?

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker, I understand that one of the Rules in submitting questions is that a Member should satisfy himself about the correctness of the statements embodied in the question. I submit that in this case the hon. and gallant Member for the Hands worth Division (Commander Locker-Lampson) was not in a position to satisfy himself that the statement that money had been paid by the Russian Government was correct?

That question was put to the hon. and gallant Member, and he took personal responsibility for the question.

On a further point of Order. Is it in order for an hon. Member in a question to impute unworthy motives to a Government with whom we are in friendly relations?

I inquired on that point, and understood that the hon. and gallant Gentleman was prepared to vouch for his statement.

On a point of order may I ask you whether I may reply to this?

No, I have dealt with it.

I propose, with the assent of my hon. and gallant Friends and of the House, to answer these questions together.

I am aware that members of the Russian Soviet Government have, during the last two years, made repeated published declarations intimating their desire and intention to interfere in the economic affairs of Great Britain, and in particular that they have made known their intention to take sides both in the general strike and in the stoppage in the coal trade. Further,- I have received information of the despatch from Russia of considerable sums of money, amounting to some hundreds of thousands of pounds, first for the purpose of the general strike and secondly for the purposes of the Miners' Federation. But the whole position is now being considered by His Majesty's Government, and I should be obliged if my hon. and gallant Friends would repeat their questions this day week.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that an Order has been sent—[HON. MEMBERS: "Do not read your question!"] On a point of Order, am I not permitted to read the name of a Russian gentleman—that an order has been sent by Mr. Piatakoft. the President of the Supreme Economic Council of the Soviet, to the Russian coal consumers rationing those consumers, whilst the Soviet is taking advantage of the opportunity to develop its markets, and, if that be so, whether it does not mean—

That is one of the class of questions which I like to see in writing.

May I ask quite specifically whether the Government, in the inquiries which they have undertaken up to now, have sent for the Russian Charge d'Affaires, and examined him in the matter, and whether, as the result of those inquiries—

Do not read it. [ Interruption. ]

Take it from me, Mr. Speaker, we will not listen to their Front Bench.

Hon. Members can trust me to see that order is kept.

Secondly, may I ask whether, in those inquiries the Government have found evidence which would justify the statement that the Russian Government have been supplying funds to the Miners' Federation in the present business?

As regards the first part of the question, I have not communicated with the representative of this friendly Power—I have not thought it my duty to do so. With regard to the second part of the question, my answer has been very carefully guarded. I have said that I think some members of the Russian Soviet Government are implicated. My inquiries are not yet complete, and I have not yet stated what is the exact connection of the Russian Government itself. I have guarded the answer. I hope to be able to make a more definite statement this day week.

But arising out of that—I think we must get this very clear—am I right in assuming that, so fir as His Majesty's Government are concerned, their investigations, up to now, have not justified the statement in this question?

I do not quite like to go so far as that. The right hon. Gentleman knows as well as I do the intimate relations between the different bodies in Russia—the Soviet Government, the Third International, and the various other organisations—the very close co-relation between those bodies. I have not yet, in answering the question, established that any money has been directly and definitely sent from one of those bodies, namely, the Government itself, but I am undertaking to say it has been sent by some of those co related bodies.

Is the Home Secretary in a position to say which of the bodies to which he referred, as being proved to be co-related to the Russian Government, has been sending money?

Perhaps I might relieve the right hon. Gentleman's trouble by saying that, since he has been asking this question, I have just received an intimation from the Foreign Office that we are satisfied that, during the general strike, the Russian Government did send money to this country, transferring funds for the purposes of the strike.

But may I ask whether the Foreign Office is also informed that those responsible for the conduct of the general strike refused that money, and whether, in this case, the Foreign Office has informed him that the money that has gone to the miners has come from that source?

I think the right hon. Gentleman had better keep clear the distinction between the general strike and the miners' strike. [ Interruption. ]

On a point of Order. The question that is being considered just now is not the general strike, but the miners'.

I do not think that is a point of Order. I am prepared, as I think I have said, to satisfy the House, or to intimate to the House that I am satisfied—that His Majesty's Government are satisfied—that money has been sent from Russia, including some money from the Russian Government, for the purposes of the general strike. Money is now being sent from various organisations in Russia for the purposes of the miners' stoppage. [ Interruption. ]

And from the Prince of Wales, too.

The two questions are cognate, but separate. I have said that His Majesty's Government have not yet arrived at a decision as to what action shall be taken in regard to the money sent for the general strike, and, secondly, what action they are to take in regard to the money still being sent to the miners.

As this matter is so serious, and both sides of the House wish it to be discussed, can we have a Debate next week, so that we may prove the Soviet's association with subversive activities [ Interruption. ]

The question of a Debate is, of course, a matter for others—the Chief Whip and the Prime Minister. But I certainly hope to be in a position to-day week to give a full statement to the House, either in Debate or in answer to a question.

I think we should now pass on to other questions.

asked the Home Secretary whether he can now publish the documents seized recently at Communist headquarters?

I hope to do so very shortly.

When will that be?

I have got the documents in print.

Will these documents be at the disposal of the Members of the House?

Certainly, as soon as they are published.

asked the Home Secretary whether he has reached' any conclusion regarding the cases of men sentenced for offences under the Emergency Powers Regulations during the recent strike: and whether he is prepared to recommend any remission or revision of sentences?

I have considered, as I said I would in the course of the Debate on the 2nd instant, every representation which has been made to me whether by Members of this House or by others. I have also obtained from every police force full reports on all incidents out of which proceedings arose, particulars of the offences and of the result of the proceedings, and of the character and circumstances of the persons convicted; and all these reports, as well as the few applications received, have been gone through most carefully, with a view to seeing whether merciful intervention could properly be recommended. I ought to say that, just as the people of this country behaved during the emergency with great calmness and moderation, the police also showed restraint in deciding to initiate proceedings or to carry them through, and the magistrates in their turn showed discrimination and fairness, discharging some persons, binding others over, fining others, and only passing sentences of imprisonment in the worst cases. Throughout the country, in 1,760 proceedings, 632 sentences of imprisonment were passed. A considerable number of prisoners lodged notices of appeal, and in those cases, of course, there can be no intervention pending the determination of the appeals.

As a result of my general review I find that the cases have been so dealt with by the Courts £hat, even on grounds of pure clemency, there is no justification for recommending intervention in any considerable number of cases, but I am glad to be able to say that in a few cases, without casting any doubt whatever on the propriety of the action taken or the sentences passed, I have been able to find sufficient grounds for recommending the discharge of the prisoners concerned. One or two applications are still coming in, so that I am not yet in a position to give numbers, but I ought to say that, with the utmost desire to recommend mercy where it can properly be shown, I cannot hold out any hope that the numbers will prove to be large.

Has the right hon. Gentleman noticed a Motion on the Paper in the name of my right hon. Friend the Member for West Swansea (Mr. Runciman) and other Members asking for an amnesty, and will he use his influence with the Parliamentary Secretary to secure facilities for it?

Is it possible for the right hon. Gentleman to arrange for the exercise of clemency in the case of the man Gibbons about whom I wrote him?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether any later investigations justify him in varying his estimate of the loss of three-quarters of a million sterling to the State as the result of the recent general strike?

The Treasury has not yet received final figures from Departments. If my hon. Fried will repeat his question in, say, a fortnight's time, I should hope to be able to give him a definite answer.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to make a statement with regard to the circumstances attending the death of Mr. Reginald Russell, in Bedford Prison, on 23rd May?

I have not yet received the report of the inquiry which has been held, but I expect to have it in the course of a few days.

asked the President of the Board of Education if he is aware of the foundation of studentships for building research to be administered by the Chadwick Trust; and if he will encourage the co-operation of the building research station in this work?

I am informed that a sum of money has been paid over to the Chadwick Trustees to be administered by them for the encouragement of building science and research. The Director of Building Research, under the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, in his private capacity, is, I understand, one of the two advisers to the Chadwick Trust in connection with the award of the studentships for building research, and co-operation with the building research station will be thereby facilitated.

asked the Minister of Health if his attention has been drawn to the number of bogus employment agencies now operating in various parts of the country; and, in view, of the victimisation of people who are seeking domestic helps, will he draw the attention of all local authorities to the provisions of The Public Health Acts (Amendment) Act, 1907, as affecting employment agencies?

I have been asked to reply. I have no information as to the first part of the question. With regard to the second part I have no reason to suppose that local authorities generally are not aware of the provisions of Section 85 of the Public Health (Amendment) Act, 1907, and I do not think that any special action of the nature indicated is necessary.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Golborne District Council, Lancashire, advertised for a medical officer of health possessing D.P.H. qualifications, and that the person appointed was not so qualified; and will he inquire as to why the candidates holding such qualifications were passed over in favour of one not so qualified?

The appointment referred to has been submitted for my approval, and I am in communication with the council on the point mentioned in the latter part of the question.

asked the Minister of Health whether he has received a communication pointing out the injury done to a lady, T. C, who was confined in Hanwell Asylum from, 1919 to 1924, whose property was taken from her, as well as valuable testimonials without which she cannot pursue her calling; whether he is aware that on discharge the union officials who had had charge of her belongings during her detention offered her a soiled mattress, blankets, bolster, and pillow instead of her own, which were clean and fresh ones, of which she had been forcibly deprived of, and that she refused to accept what was offered to her; will he see that new articles are given to her instead of those taken; and, in view of frequent complaints that the clothing of one patient is often substituted for another, will he take steps to put an end to the practice?

The facts of this case are fully set out in the communications which I sent the hon. Member as a result of the questions which he addressed to me on the 12th March and 2nd April last year, to which I have nothing to add. I do not consider that any further action is called for.

Is it not a fact that it is already admitted that the testimonials were not handed back?

I have given the hon. Member all the information in my possession.

asked the Minister of Health if, with reference to the action of the Kent County Council in co-operating with local authorities in schemes for miners' houses in the new colliery district, he will say how much land has been acquired for this purpose; and how many houses utilising compressed cork as a walling material have been approved for the Government subsidy at Betteshanger or elsewhere in Kent?

Arrangements are at present being made for the acquisition of a total area of some 700 acres of land for the erection of miners' houses in the new Kent colliery district, under schemes promoted by the local authorities. As regards the second question, approval for subsidy purposes has been given in respect of 56 houses of the special form of construction in question to be erected at Betteshanger and other districts in Kent.

asked the Minister of Health whether the widow of an insured man who died prior to 4th January, 1926, is treated as qualified to become a voluntary contributor under the Widows', Orphans' and Old Age Con- tributory Pensions Act; and, if so, what are the conditions under which she may become entitled to medical treatment, sick and disablement benefit, and an old age pension on reaching the age of 65, subsequent to January, 1928.

The widow of an insured man who died prior to 4th January, 1926, is not qualified to become a voluntary contributor under the combined scheme of Health Insurance and Pensions by reason of her late husband's insurance. If, however, she has at any time been insured under the National Health Insurance Acts for at least two years or has been engaged in a specially excepted employment for at least two years since 15th July, 1912, she is so qualified, on giving notice within the limited time allowed for the purpose, and m that case she becomes entitled to medical and other benefits subject to the usual conditions laid down in the Acts.

asked the Minister of Health how many widows whose husbands died prior to 4th January, 1926, are in receipt of pensions under the Widows', Orphans' and Old Age Contributory Pensions Act; and, if the number is below the estimate given in the Report by the Government Actuary on the financial provisions of the Bill, what is the estimated saving in expenditure for the year 1926–27?

On the latest figures available the number of pensions awarded to the widows of men who died prior to 4th January, 1926, is 128,600. In addition over 2,000 claims are at present under investigation and claims continue to be received at the rate of 200 a week approximately. As regards the second part of the question I would point out that the expenditure charged to the Vote is a fixed sum of £4,000,000 a year and is in no way affected by any difference between the actual and the estimated number of beneficiaries.

asked the Minister of Health whether the Royal Commission appointed in 1924 to inquire into the subject of lunacy reform has completed its labours; and whether its Report will be published at an early date?

I have been asked to reply, and I am afraid I can add nothing to the answer which I gave last Thursday to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for Oxford University.

asked the Minister of Health on what grounds he has issued instructions to boards of guardians that in ordinary cases out-relief should not be greater than unemployment benefit, and that the relief given to the wives and children should not exceed 12s. for the wife and 4s. for each child; whether, in addition, he has fixed the maximum of relief to be given to any one family; whether he has refused to allow boards of guardians in necessitous areas to renew loans for the purpose of out-relief unless the foregoing scales have been complied with; and, if so, whether he will give a list of these districts?

In the circular letter which is apparently referred to in the question, no definite instructions were issued to boards of guardians as to the amount, of out-relief to be given. In view, however, of conserving the financial resources of the guardians in the exceptional circumstances in which the letter was issued it was suggested that a scale should be adopted, and attention was drawn to the benefits under the Unemployment Insurance Act which had already been taken as maxima by many boards of guardians for ordinary cases. The figures of 12s and 4s. respectively for wives and children of strikers are those found sufficient in 1921 adjusted in view of the alteration in the cost of living. No maximum of relief for any one family is mentioned in the letter. I am sending the hon. Member a list of cases in which reductions in the scale of relief were made before borrowing for current expenditure was authorised.

asked the Minister of Health what action has been taken to remedy the defects as disclosed in the survey raised in the Inspectors' Reports of the Casual Wards in the Unions in Wales (including Monmouthshire), which were published in 1924, and with reference to the other deficiencies of casual wards in other parts of the country?

This matter is constantly under review, and my inspectors continue to press upon boards of guardians the need for remedying such defects as are referred to and have not already been removed, but substantial improvements have already been obtained in many instances.

Have the defects shown in the 1924 Report been remedied?

Substantial improvements have been made since that time.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will take steps to prevent the closing of Cricklade and Bassett Ward and other casual wards adjacent, in view of the fresh wave of vagrancy likely to follow on industrial distress; and whether he will inquire as to the seven years' resistance of the Caersws Guardians, Machynlleth, to putting their wards in order?

The Vagrancy Committee for the County of Wiltshire is considering what, if any, changes should be made in the casual ward accommodation of the county, and when I receive their recommendations I will certainly bear in mind the consideration suggested in the question. As regards the last part of the question, the Machynlleth Guardians have experienced substantial difficulties in the preparation of their proposals, and are now, I understand, considering new sites upon which casual ward accommodation can be provided.

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that one of the guardians declared at a board meeting that he had been trying for seven years to get the Order of the Ministry carried out, and that it had been defied?

No, Sir; I am not aware of that. I do not think that it makes any difference to the facts.

asked the Minister of Agriculture the number of Class III scholarships for agricultural workers who have become smallholders; and whether it is intended that the scholarship grant shall be continued for a further period?

As far as information is available, four ex-Class III scholars have become smallholders. With reference to the second part of the question, I have asked the Central Scholarships Committee to examine the working of the scheme during the experimental five-year priod which ends this year, and to formulate for my consideration their views upon its future.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether any protests have been received against the proposed conditions of approval by him of the disinfectants that may be employed under the Diseases of Animals (Disinfectants) Order, 1926, and more particularly against the nature of the selected test to determine the dilutions at which the approved disinfectants must be employed; and whether, as the proposed method of testing the value of these agents is one which has never been adopted by Government Departments in this or any other country, nor by the large railway and shipping, etc., companies, nor by health authorities, he will give this matter fuller consideration before taking any further action?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Chick-Martin method of testing, which is laid down by the Ministry's Regulations, is also adopted as the basis for the approval of disinfectants by the Board of Trade and by His Majesty's Office of Works, and I am satisfied that this test affords the best means of judging the efficiency of a disinfectant for the purposes of the Diseases of Animals Acts and Orders.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether any representation has been made to him by any locality to induce the sugar-beet factory companies to pay rates for sugar beet higher than the existing 54s. rate; and, if so what has been the result of their efforts?

No representation has reached me from any locality asking me to intervene between beet-sugar factory companies and the farmers, either individually or through their union, with respect to a change in the beet price. As I stated in my reply on 11th March to the hon. Member, the terms of the beet contracts have been arrived at after negotiations between the National Farmers' Union and the factory companies. The conditions of this agreement are being observed by both parties.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, with regard to the Ely Beet Sugar Factory, Limited, which is one of those subsidised concerns which is allowed to purchase under agreement 75 per cent, of its machinery and plant abroad, he can say whether the provision of tugs and barges now being purchased abroad by this company comes within that percentage?

Under the British Sugar (Subsidy) Act, the 75 per cent, condition is applied, not to foreign machinery and plant, but to British machinery and plant installed in the factory for the manufacture of sugar and molasses, and I am advised that tugs and barges cannot be regarded as plant and machinery installed for that purpose. The position of the Ely Beet Sugar Factory, so far as the 75 per cent, condition is concerned, was fully dealt with in the reply given by my predecessor to the hon. Member for Blackpool (Sir W. de Frece) on 15th June, 1925. I may add that I have received information from the Company which shows that opportunity was given to British firms to tender for the tugs and barges referred to.

asked the Minister of Agriculture the total quantity of foreign barley imported into the United Kingdom during 1925; whether he can state what proportions of such imported barley were used for malting or distilling purposes; and, if unable to do so, whether he will call for a return from malting and dis- tilleries of the total quantity of foreign barley malted or distilled during 1925?

I have been asked to reply. The quantity of barley imported into Great Britain and Northern Ireland during 1925 was 15,779,000 cwt. No information is available as to the quantities of imported barley used for malting or distilling purposes, and I regret that I cannot undertake to obtain such information. I would point out that maltings are not under official control.

May I point out that it is impossible to hear what the Minister is saying, owing to the noise which is coming from the benches opposite?

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what is the estimated amount of the additional charge placed upon the Road Fund by reason of the decision referred to in paragraph 95 of his Memorandum on the Civil Service Estimates, that all grants payable in respect of road construction, whether instituted for the relief of unemployment or otherwise, should in future be charged upon the Road Fund?

The amount is estimated at £800,000 for 1926–27.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department as representing the First Commissioner of Works whether, in view of the recent collapse of long erected windmills, he has considered whether any of those now standing merit official attention by reason of their 'historic or antiquarian associations; and, if not, whether he will do so.

One windmill at Chesterton, Warwickshire, ascribed to Inigo Jones, and dated 1632, has already been scheduled under the Ancient Monuments Act. If there are any others with historic or antiquarian associations, their claims will receive due consideration.

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, when Trafalgar-Square was first closed to the public for the purpose of the repairs at present in course of execution, and when it is expected that the Square will again be open to the public?

Half of the Square was closed for repaying in August, 1925, and was reopened last April. The delay in completing is due to railway restrictions during the present emergency and to difficulty in obtaining the stone slabs from the quarry, but it is hoped that the whole of the Square will again be open by August next.

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he will arrange that children shall be allowed to play on the open spaces in the gardens of the House of Lords, in view of the inadequacy of the space now allotted to children in these gardens?

I assume the hon. Member refers to the Victoria Tower Gardens, which have no connection whatever with the House of Lords. As the hon. Member is aware, a sandpit for children has already been provided in these gardens, and any extension of this space-could not be given without detracting from the amenities of the gardens and interfering with the enjoyment of them by the general public. The First Commissioner also considers that St. James' Park affords playing grounds sufficiently near to render the allocation of further space to children in these Gardens unnecessary.

If the hon. and gallant Gentleman takes the opportunity on a fine evening of visiting these gardens and finds there is need for more space, will he arrange to give it?

I should have great difficulty in finding the fine evening.

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman consider utilising part of the space in the Victoria Gardens to provide lawn tennis and bowling green courts for Members of the House?

As the hon. Member knows, that has been considered very carefully, but there is a feeling in the House that it is more important for Members to attend to their duties.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that there are large lawns in these gardens, and very many children who cannot reach St. James's Park, and would it be an offence against the amenities to allow the children to play on the lawns?

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman provide small buckets and spades for Members of the House?

The hon. Member will perhaps make a personal application.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that 21 plots of land are being sold by the Government in Mombasa in July, when only Europeans will be allowed to bid; and, seeing that this is a contravention of the non-segregation policy and likely to result in lower financial returns to the Government of Kenya, will he inquire into the matter?

I have been asked to reply. The information in the possession of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies does not enable him to identify the particular plots referred to in the question, but the facts are very probably as stated. It should be borne in mind that the transition from the policy of segregation to one of non-segregation necessarily involved some difficulties, and it was pointed out by the Governments concerned that in certain cases the land was legally subject to restrictive covenants entered into under the former system. After careful consideration it was decided that where it was not possible to waive such covenants without incurring legal proceedings entailing the probability of an injunction against the Government, it would be necessary to retain the restrictions. The sales men- tioned by the hon. Member no doubt fall within this category.

asked the Postmaster-General whether any special conditions have been laid down as regards promotions in the postal staff at Birmingham; and whether he has received any complaints of the present system?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. Representations concerning an individual promotion were recently made by certain of the staff affected; but no grounds could be found for questioning the selection which had been made locally.

Is the Noble Lord aware that the man in question was informed that as he was not a member of the Postal Workers' Union he could not be promoted?