asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that bogus share pushers, which were the subject of inquiry by his Departmental Committee, are again becoming active; and will be consider what steps he can take to restrict their activities?

I have seen certain references to this matter in the Press. As already stated, I hope it may be possible to introduce next year a Bill based on the recommendations of the Committee. I would also refer my hon. Friend to the answer given by the Home Secretary to the hon. and gallant Member for Norwich, on the 24th June last, of which I am sending him a copy.

Will the right hon. Gentleman use the influence of his high office to issue a warning to the unsuspecting public to treat with suspicion all unsolicited advances, whether by post in personal visit, as to the investment or re-investment of securities?

No, Sir. I do not think it would be possible for the Department to set up a precedent of that kind. The House is very jealous about the Department not going outside the powers conferred upon it; but I am quite clear that we ought to have powers in regard to this matter. Therefore, I propose to introduce a Bill next year. All the advice that can be given, through the medium of the Press and so on, where there is likely to be improper touting, is very desirable.

When the right hon. Gentleman refers to the report of a Committee, is he referring to a report which he is expecting, or to a report already received?

To the report already received.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the increased duty on vegetable oils imposed in Portugal; and if he intends to take any steps in the matter?

The duty on such oils was increased in common with several other rates of Customs duty by a Portuguese Decree of 27th September. His Majesty's Ambassador was able to secure the postponement of the operation of these increases until 15th November, but, so far, the Portuguese Government have not agreed to any modification in the rates proposed. I am, however, in consultation with the Foreign Secretary as to what further steps can usefully be taken.

Is it not a fact that Portugal receives very favourable privileges? Foe example, is it not a fact that Portugal enjoys a monopoly, by Treaty, of the port wine trade? Could not that be abrogated in the event of a mild protest being disregarded?

It is always possible to denounce a commercial Treaty, upon notice prescribed in the Treaty, but it does not necessary follow that that is always a wise course.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take powers to prevent companies making use of designations such as the term imperial without due sanction, which shall only be given in cases where the use of the name is obviously appropriate?

This is another of the recommendations of the Company Law Amendment Committee which it is proposed to include in a Bill that, as I have just stated, I hope to introduce next year.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received from the Cinematograph Exhibitors' Association of Great Britain a draft Bill relative to the blind booking of films; and can he make any statement in this regard?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, the question of the production and exhibition within the Empire of Empire films is being considered by the Imperial Conference, and I am consequently unable to make any statement on the matter at present.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I am particularly referring to the blind booking of films?

I am aware of that. All these matters have been brought before the Imperial Conference.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that one of the Government Departments, the Admiralty, are interested in the film "Falkland," and that the blind hooking of the film has been arranged in a very large number of theatres in this country?

I was not aware of that, but if the hon. Member has a question to put to the Admiralty, he had better put it to the First Lord.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that since the duty on lenses was increased from 33⅓ per cent. to 50 per cent. the customs officials have been charging duty, not on the net price paid by the English agent as before, but on some price fixed by the customs officials with the promise to refund any excess at a later date; that over £127 excess has been paid by the Imperial Optical Company fur the six months April to September, being nearly 20 per cent. more than the correct amount; that no money has yet been refunded though much correspondence has taken place, and that the customs refuse to give any explanation, merely stating that the matter is being considered; and what action he proposes to take to prevent this excess payment being called for in the future?

I have been asked to reply. In accordance with usual practice, it has been necessary to consider whether, having regard to the nature of the arrangements under which the goods referred to were imported, the amounts shown in the invoices for the goods afforded a satisfactory basis for assessment of the ad valorem duty chargeable. Pending the settlement of this question, which had no reference to the change in the rate of the duty, delivery of the goods was allowed, as is customary in such cases, on deposit of sums sufficient to cover any liability to duty which might have been incurred. The question has now been determined, with the result that the invoices have been accepted, and the excess sums deposited have been refunded.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the British steamship "Eastway," owners Messrs. Williams Brothers, Cardiff, turned turtle at sea on 22nd October, and sank with the loss of 23 lives owing to having been overloaded at Norfolk, Virginia, to the extent of 200 tons of coal over her required cargo, sending her five inches below her Plimsoll mark; what supervisory powers are possessed by the Board of Trade over the loading of British ships in foreign ports; and, if they are not adequate to prevent the loss of lives of British seamen, has he any intention of seeking to increase his powers?

I am aware that the "Eastway" sank on 22nd October with the loss of 23 lives, and that allegations have been made that the vessel was overloaded. A Board of Trade Inquiry will be held at which all the circumstances of the casualty will be investigated. The checks on overloading at foreign ports are that the load line is marked on the ship's side, and the load line certificate is posted up on board; particulars of the load line are entered in the agreement with the crew and in the official log; the draft of water and the freeboard have to be entered in the official log every time a ship leaves port; and a Naval Court can be summoned by a consular officer if a complaint is made by any member of a ship's crew which appears to require immediate investigation. It is not considered that these provisions can usefully be extended.

When the Inquiry takes place, will the right hon. Gentleman have some special reference made to inquire whether the ship was trimmed at all, even for the cargo which she had?

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any complaint was made by the crew before the ship sailed?

In regard to the first supplementary, I would point out that the duty of a Court of Inquiry is to take all relevant circumstances into account. I have no knowledge in regard to the second supplementary question.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the safety limits for rifle and gun shooting are accurately tested before a range is set up; whether a fair margin is allowed; and whether, if so, he will state how the recent accident to the Dover-Ostend boat arose?

Yes, Sir But in the case of seaward ranges the question of the speed at which boats approach the area arises and the recent regrettable accident suggests that there was not sufficient allowance made for this factor on the Fanhole Range at Dover. It is for this reason that, as I have already stated, the range has been temporarily closed.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it is the intention of the War Office to close the Raglan Barracks in Devonport?

The North Raglan Barracks, Devonport, have been temporarily evacuated on the posting of a battalion to newly completed barracks at Catterick. But it is the intention to keep the Raglan Barracks available for another battalion until such time as troops return from the Rhine.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether that battalion will be a battalion of the Devons, in which these barracks would be most appropriate?

That I cannot say.

asked the Secretary of State for War what decisions have been reached, and what changes will be made, as a result of the recommendations of the Committee appointed to consider the question of promotion of artificers in the Royal Artillery?

I regret that I am not yet in a position to say, but I hope to be able to do so at an early date.

asked the Secretary of State for War when the civilian houses at Shoeburyness, now in military occupation, will be released for civilian use?

Thirteen married quarters in the Isle of Grain, which have recently been taken over from the Royal Air Force, will shortly be occupied by married soldiers and some of the civilian houses will then be set free. I am unable to say at present whether it will be possible to make provision in next year's Estimates for building additional married accommodation at Shoeburyness, but I doubt it.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the current military Estimates there are upwards of 30 cases of additional accommodation being provided for officers, non-commissioned officers and men, and is it possible for the right hon. Gentleman to say that all these are more urgent than the case of Shoeburyness? Can he arrange for some proportion of the money available to be taken into account, so that each station may receive an allotment in proportion to its needs, in comparison with the wants of other stations?

I can assure my hon. Friend that that is precisely the procedure that is followed by a committee of the War Office.

Why is it that Shoeburyness has been left out?

Because it is thirty-first on a list of thirty.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the personnel of the Committee recently appointed by the Army headquarters at Simla to investigate the steps to be taken to combat disease among British troops in India?

I have been asked to reply. With the hon. Member's permission, I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT the information available regarding this Committee.

Following is the statement:

A Committee was assembled in Simla in October last to consider whether any modification in policy in combating venereal disease among British troops was desirable in the light of experience during recent years. The Committee was composed of officers commanding the 2nd Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers and the 2nd Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment, chaplain to Metropolitan, consulting dermatologist, Army headquarters; deputy director, personal services, Army headquarters; and deputy assistant adjutant-general, Army headquarters. The report of the Committee is now under the consideration of the Commander-in-Chief.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the total number of women needed for the Army, Navy and Air Force canteens; and what is the present establishment?

asked the Minister of Labour how many women have been offered employment at the Army, Navy and Air Force canteens since 1st May, 1926; how many have accepted such employment; how many have refused; how many, after acceptance, have been found unsuitable before engagement; and in how many cases payment has been suspended as a result of such offer?

I have been asked to reply to Question No. 78. The details regarding staff on which information is asked, are matters for the Board of Management of the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes, and do not come within the purview of the War Office. As regards the last part of Question No. 78, if the reference be to the suspension of unemployment benefit, I understand that statistics are not available in the Ministry of Labour to enable a reply to be furnished.

Are the War Office not represented on the Canteen Committee? If so, is it not possible to get from their representatives the information required, or is it a fact that there is no representation on this Board at all?

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Army, Navy and Air Force institute get any indication from the War Office that they should give preference to ex-service men in selecting their staff?

There are representatives of the Services upon the Board of Management of the institutes, but the Board is an autonomous body and the War Office does not manage their business. The less the War Office interferes the better the business will be managed.

The right hon. Gentleman has answered Question 78, which is addressed to the Minister of Labour. May I ask how it is that the Ministry of Labour has no knowledge of the people who applied to the Ministry of Labour for staff?

That question had better be addressed to the Minister of Labour.

In that case, will the right hon. Gentleman allow his colleague to answer?

Certainly.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will call for a Report from the Land Court as to the working of the Small Landholders (Scotland) Acts, indicating in what respects amendment is now deemed necessary and desirable?

I do not think it necessary to call for such a report, but I should always be prepared to consider any suggestions which the Land Court might put before me.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it desirable at this period, and after the experience we have had of the Acts, to call for a report as to their administration.

I am not clear that a report is called for at the present moment.

May we take it that the right hon. Gentleman has considered the suggestion made on several occasions by the Scottish Land Court that the Small Landowners Acts should be amended in order to give security of tenure to the smallholder?

I always give careful consideration to any suggestion which the Scottish Land Court may make, but I am not prepared now to take steps in that direction.

asked the Secretary of State far Scotland whether the estate of Eriboll, in Sutherlandshire, acquired by the Scottish Board of Agriculture for the settlement of ex-service men on the land as smallholders, has been privately sold to a sheep farmer; if he will state the price received for the estate and the sheep stock, and say whether the sheep stock was sold at a Martinmas valuation; and if he will lay upon the Table the report of the arbiter upon this transaction?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the sum of £10,000, for which the estate of Eriboll was sold, includes the amount paid for the sheep upon the farm; and, if not, whether he can state the price paid for the sheep when the estate was bought by the Government and the amount received when they were sold?

The reply to the first part of the question by the hon. Member for Dundee is in the affirmative. The price received for the estate of Eriboll is £10,000. The price paid for the sheep stock when the Board of Agriculture took entry to the farm at Whit-Sunday, 1921, was £43,295 6s. 1d. The price to be paid by the purchaser for the sheep stock, which is additional to the amount paid for the estate, has not yet been determined. The valuation of the sheep stock is taking place as at Martinmas, 1926. The award by the arbiter has not yet been made. I do not anticipate that the arbiter will make any report beyond the statement of values which will constitute his award.

May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware of any objections or adverse criticisms which have been made on this sale of sheep stock?

I am aware of certain adverse views which have been expressed, but they were fully considered when this arrangement was made.

Arising out of the original answer, may I ask if this is part of the right hon. Gentleman's policy of forbidding ex-service men to be settled on the soil?

No, Sir. There has been no such effort on my part. Quite the contrary.

Is it not the case that this sheep stock is being sold to a private and wealthy purchaser at terms far less favourable to the public than have been offered to the ex-service men, for whom this estate was bought; whether, if the report of the arbitrator is not yet available, the right hon. Gentleman will lay on the Table the Minute of Reference to the arbitrator, so that we can see on what terms this valuation is being settled; and why I have had no reply to a question which I addressed to him as long as six weeks ago?

With regard to the first question, as far as the terms are concerned, I think the hon. and gallant Member had better wait until he sees the terms of the award. As to the second supplementary, I am perfectly willing to answer any questions when this transaction has been completed.

asked the Secretary for Mines how many persons have gained first and second class certificates of competency under the Coal Mines Regulation Act, 1911, in each of the years since 1920; how many were workmen qualifying under the five years period; and how many were students holding a diploma in mining science and qualified under the three years period?

I will circulate these figures in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Is it not the fact that nearly 2,000 men have obtained these certificates under the five years' serving period, and does not the right hon. Gentleman see that a gross mistake has been made in passing Section 22 of the Mining Industries Act?

We must not criticise the action of the House four months ago.

Following are the figures promised:

The numbers of persons who have gained first class certificates since 1920, showing, respectively, the numbers who held approved degrees or diplomas and required at least three years' experience in mining, and the numbers who required at least five years' experience in mining are shown below: Year. Holders of Approved Degrees or Diplomas. Other Candidates. Total. 1921 … 6 146 152 1922 … 24 181 205 1923 … 44 185 229 1924 … 37 151 188 1925 … 54 144 198 165 807 972

With regard to second class certificates the numbers are as follows: Year. Holders of Approved Degrees or Diplomas. Other Candidates. Total. 1921 … — 209 209 1922 … — 237 237 1923 … — 209 209 1924 … 2 186 188 1925 … 2 147 149 4 988 992

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is prepared to grant greater latitude to shopkeepers who wish a reasonable amount of illumination for the display of their goods in their shop window fronts; and whether he is aware that without such assistance it is difficult for them to carry on their business on proper lines?

asked the Secretary for Mines if he is aware that the lighting Regulations are being differently interpreted by the chief constables all over the country; whether he is trying to arrange for some uniform action; whether he is aware that there is bitterness amongst shopkeepers whose lighting facilities in their shop windows have been cut down to the detriment of their livelihood, while in private houses there is no limitation whatever to the amount of illumination used; and whether, in the interests of fairness, some greater concession can be made to those who have to earn their livelihood by effective display on days when daylight is very short?

I am aware that it has been very difficult to secure uniformity in the interpretation of these directions, and for that purpose I have recently caused a circular letter to be sent to local authorities and chief constables on the subject. I am sending each of the hon. Members a copy. I fully realise the inconvenience and loss which is being most loyally borne by the trading community, and, in view of the improvement in the coal situation, I hope that it may soon be possible to relieve them of these harassing restrictions.

Will the right hon. Gentleman give attention to the fact that the Christmas trade is very near, when this lighting will be required?

That is the point I have in mind, and I hope that very soon the whole situation will be improved.

May I ask whether the circular letter which the right hon. Gentleman has issued to Chief Constables all over the country is not very confusing?

If the hon. Member will give me the benefit of his advice and assistance and tell me where it is confusing, I will try and make it clear.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been called to the issue of coal permits during the stoppage to a single room in a city office on the same scale as to a large household; and whether steps were taken to prevent such abuses?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. With regard to the second, the duty of issuing permits for the acquisition of coal for domestic or office use rests with the local authorities, with whose discretion I am reluctant to interfere. Obviously there must have been some anomalies and some lack of uniformity in local administration, but I am satisfied that on the whole their duties have been fairly and reasonably performed.

( for Mr. HARDIE) asked the Secretary for Mines whether he or his Department arranged for the recent delivery of German briquettes into Britain?

No, Sir.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the decision of the Great Western Railway Company to abandon the Kennet and Avon Canal, which was completed in 1810 at a cost of approximately £1,000,000; and whether, despite the unnavigable condition into which the canal has been allowed to fall, he will consider constructive proposals whereby this waterway may be restored to usefulness?

The Great Western Railway Company have applied to me under the provisions of Section 45 of the Railway and Canal Traffic Act, 1888, for a Warrant of Abandonment of this canal, and I have required public notice of the application to be given with a view to the proper consideration of any representations that interested parties may wish to make. With regard to the latter part of the question, I am not aware that the canal has been allowed to fall into an unnavigable condition, and I may explain that before any warrant can be issued the applicants will have to show that the canal is unnecessary for the purposes of public navigation.

Will there be a public inquiry or is it within the province of the Ministry alone?

It will be within the discretion of the Minister, but naturally I shall be inclined to hold a public inquiry if it be desirable.

Before which interested parties will have an opportunity of giving evidence?

That is so.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has considered the question of the inadequate lighting of arterial roads; and whether any experiments in highway illumination are being carried out by the Ministry?

As the hon. Member is aware, the lighting of highways is a matter for the local authorities concerned, and it may be hoped that when financial conditions improve, a higher standard of lighting will be adopted by the less advanced authorities. I am not at present conducting experiments in highway illumination, nor am I aware that I have any powers to do so.

Has the right hon. Gentleman considered whether the Roads Improvement Act which was passed last year empowers him to make the experiment in lighting arterial roads?

I am advised that it does not.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Berkshire County Council recently adopted resolutions expressing their opinion that the steps he has taken up to date and his Circular No. 245 (Roads) of 18th August are not sufficient to obtain the adoption of rubber pads or tyres on all types of heavy road vehicles, and urging the necessity of legislation prohibiting the use of steel tyres on heavy road vehicles; whether he has had representations on this matter from other local councils; and whether, in view of the urgency of the question, he will make Regulations to safeguard roads from steel tyred damage before the summer of 1927?

asked the Minister of Transport whether he proposes to take any steps to limit the user of the roads by heavy iron-tyred vehicles, except so far as such vehicles may be used for agricultural purposes?

I am aware of the representations to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers. On the whole, I am fairly satisfied with the progress made in the direction of fitting these heavy vehicles with rubber tyres or pads, and as an instance I may mention the action taken by the National Showmen's Guild. In addition to the issue of the Circular to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, I am taking every oppos4tunity that presents itself to encourage the practice. I have not at present the necessary powers to make comprehensive regulations in the matter, but I propose to seek such powers in the Bill dealing with road vehicles, which I hope shortly to be able to introduce.

asked the Minister of Transport why no progress is being made with the construction of the last section of the new road to Tilbury; and what prospects there are of the road being finally completed at an early date?

The county councils of Essex and of London have collaborated with my Department in remodelling the London-Tilbury road which now discharges, in its improved form, into existing roads in Tilbury. I am not at present in a position to offer a grant towards the extension of the improvement through Tilbury.

Does my right hon. Friend consider it a business arrangement to construct, at vast expense, an arterial road for the great docking system, and to stop it short 300 or 400 yards from the dock, a railway intervening between so that it does not connect with the docks in any way?

The answer is that the existing roads in Tilbury are not nearly as bad as my hon. Friend imagines.

The whole point is that this road stops 300 yards short of the docks.

It is rather more than 300 yards. These roads are not half as bad as my hon. Friend suggests, and they can carry the traffic which goes over them, and there are other necessary improvements which must take precedence.

asked the Minister of Transport if the personnel of the Standing Committee on Mineral Transport has yet been settled, and if private owners of railway wagons are represented?

The personnel of this Committee is not yet finally settled. The private wagon-owners concerned are principally colliery owners, coal factors and coal merchants, and these interests have been invited to make suggestions for membership.

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that it would be to the advantage of the railways and of the public if private ownership of railway wagons were abolished entirely?

That may be so, but the hon. Member knows, as well as I do, the great difficulties which surround this question and the very considerable expense which would be entailed.

asked the Minister of Transport why he refused financial assistance to the schemes for repaving works in classified roads which the Bethnal Green Borough Council proposed to carry out in order to relieve unemployment; whether there is any reason to believe that there is a decrease in unemployment in the borough; and, if not, why help was refused this year, although accorded last year?

I am not aware of any application having been refused for assistance towards paving works on classified roads in Bethnal Green. The borough council have, however, been informed that there are no moneys available for grants towards the cost of works on urban streets, which are not included in Class I or Class II, and which possess little more than local importance. I understand that assistance was rendered last year from moneys at the disposal of the Unemployment Grants Committee, but there are no funds available from the Road Fund for works of this nature.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that application was made to the Unemployment Grants Committee, and the answer was that all these roads were now in charge of the Department; and is he further aware that double the amount is now being spent on outdoor relief, and that, therefore, the need for relief works is very much increased?

I think the hon. Member has been misinformed as to the answer about all the roads being in charge of my Department. That is not so; they are in charge of the local authority. As to the other point, the Unemployment Grants Committee this year have not the money for this particular work that they had last year.

Is it suggested that the amount of money given by the Government has to be reduced because there is a decrease of unemployment or on grounds of economy?

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that three steamers laden with coke which arrived at Southampton on the 27th and 31st October and the 3rd November are detained in Southampton Water, and that the reason assigned for the delay in the unloading of these vessels is that there are not sufficient empty trucks available for the purpose of conveying the coke to its destination, with the result that works to which the coke is assigned are being temporarily closed down; and will be inquire into the matter?

I understand from the Southern Railway Company that the traffic to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers was dealt with at a private wharf where the railway company have no jurisdiction over the berthing or discharging of vessels. The company inform me that a large quantity of coal had to be dealt with during the period in question and that although empty wagons were available some delays occurred in placing them in position for loading owing to the congested state of the sidings. The needs of the situation are continuing to have special attention.

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the accident., on Saturday, 6th November, at the Belsize Park Station (Hampstead Tube), when the clothing of a young lady about to enter a train was caught in the automatic doors; and whether he is satisfied that all reasonable precautions are taken with a view to public safety in this regard?

The railway company inform me that so far they have not been able to trace that an accident of the kind mentioned in the question occurred, and that the staff at Belsize Park Station have no knowledge of it With regard to the last part of the question, I have no reason to suppose that all reasonable precautions are not taken in connection with the operation of the pneumatically operated doors on the London Underground Railways.

In view of the fact that one of the London evening newspapers published nearly a column, with alarming headlines, about this accident, and in view of the alarming nature of it, cannot the right hon. Gentleman make some inquiries and take some action?

The hon. Member surely must admit that the railway company ought to know more about it than some newspaper.

Does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that the railway company has a very serious grievance if an alarming report like this is spread, and no accident at all has taken place?

The hon. Member must not pay too much attention to what he sees in the newspapers.

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that on 22nd September last, at Chertsey, Surrey, fatal injuries were sustained by Mr. F. Yeardsley, a man of 58 years of age, whilst on the same occasion another man received serious injuries, including a broken ankle, the said injuries being inflicted by a motor cycle ridden by a boy 15 years of age; whether he has read the coroner's remarks at the concluding stage of the inquiry; and whether he can give any indication of the Government's intentions regarding the early revision of regulations which permit the use of motor bicycles by immature lads?

My attention had not previously been called to the particular accident to which my hon. Friend refers. As regards the last part of his question, I may say that I have under consideration the whole question of the issue of driving licences in connection with the Bill, which I hope to introduce shortly, for the better regulation of road vehicles.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is prepared to recommend that in streets where one-way traffic is in force the taximeter cab ranks shall be against the curb instead of in the middle of the roadway, in order that pedestrians may have an unimpeded view of the traffic?

Consideration has been given to the suggestion that in streets where "one-way" traffic is in force cab-ranks should be against the kerb instead of in the middle of the roadway. This arrangement has been adopted in the case of the cab-rank on the east side of Trafalgar Square and in Piccadilly Circus. In the case of other "one-way" streets, the placing of cab-ranks next to the kerb would create serious difficulties with the frontagers, and would prevent other vehicles from drawing up in front of shops and other business premises.

Can the Minister tell the House whether the London Traffic Advisory Committee are considering any method of improving the means of crossing "one-way" streets by pedestrians?

There are really three ways of doing it. You can make a subway, you can build a bridge, or you can have specified crossing places. The last suggestion is now under consideration.

asked the Minister of Transport what steps have been taken to give effect to the recommendation of the Departmental Committee on the taxation and regulation of road vehicles that the question of the provision of guards in front of motor vehicles should be reconsidered as soon as satisfactory devices appear to be available?

A number of devices have been brought to my notice from time to time, and demonstrations have been given. Most of these devices, however, introduce fresh elements of danger, and I am advised that no completely satisfactory device has yet been put forward.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that very large numbers of school children are killed or maimed every year in the streets of London alone, and, pending the discovery of an absolutely satisfactory device, could not some simple plan for safeguarding children be adopted, in order that this appalling mortality may be prevented?

The trouble is that there is no simple plan which one can adopt. Most of these devices have considerable dangers, though they do away with other dangers.

Is it not a fact that drivers are considerably more reckless in those countries where the steel guards are carried?

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there was a case, three months ago, of a child being killed by a car going at only two miles an hour? A simple guard would have saved that child's life.

But the vehicle does not always move at two miles an hour, and when moving faster it might be more dangerous with such a contrivance than without one.

asked the Minister of Transport how many Electricity Commissioners have resigned since the authority was first appointed; what has been the reason of their resignation; and what are the terms of their appointments?

The answer to the first part of the question is two. In both cases the reason for resignation was the desire of the Commissioner to take up an important appointment with an electric supply company. As regards the terms of the Electricity Commissioners' appointments, I would refer the hon. Member to the first Section of the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1919. The two Commissioners in question were whole time officers holding office during His Majesty's pleasure.

Is it not the duty of the Commissioners to adjudicate on claims of electric light companies? Does he not think it most undesirable that they should be in the position of Commissioners, and take employment at increased salaries from electric light companies? Would it not be advisable that the terms of their appointment should be that they should not engage in any work for businesses whose claims they have had to consider?

That opens up a very large question. It is altogether different from the question which the hon. Member put on the Paper.

asked the Postmaster-General if he will publish a supplement to the Post Office Historical Summary bringing it up to date?

The sales of the Historical Summary, even during the first year of issue, were small, and I regret that I cannot see any prospect of the demand being sufficient to justify the issue of a supplement.

also asked the Postmaster-General what steps are being taken to advertise the cash-on-delivery services provided by the Post Office; and if he will consider a definite publicity campaign to include the distribution of attractive literature and advertising in the Press?

The opening of the cash-on-delivery service received a very wide publicity in the Press and elsewhere, and the extent to which it is already used suggests that its existence is well known to those who are likely to take advantage of it. I do not regard it as the duty of the Post Office to urge the public to use this facility in preference to other means of purchase and remittance.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the use of the cash-on-delivery service is increasing?

Yes; as I said the other day, the user is certainly growing.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will discontinue the special rate at present in force for Press telegrams?

The existing rates can only be altered by legislation, which I am not at present prepared to introduce.

Is it not a fact that these rates are charged under a properly constituted agreement between the parties. Is there any reason for treating it as a scrap of paper?

They are charged by Statute.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that promotion in the postal telegraph department of the Post Office depends on securing the recommendation of members of the staff side of the appropriate Whitley Council, to whom the postal servant has to make application, and not to his departmental controller who has knowledge of his work and capacity; and whether this practice has his approval?

Promotions in the telegraph department, as in other branches of the Post Office service, are made on the recommendation of an official promotion board, of which the senior local controlling officer is the chairman. It is open to the staff to make representations to this board, through the staff side of the appropriate Whitley Committee; but the weight to be attached to such recommendation is entirely a matter for the discretion of the board, which is in possession of full information as to the work and capacity of the various candidates for promotion.

Do I understand that, if a man applies to his local controller for consideration of his case for promotion and the controller refers him direct to the local Whitley Council staff side, he is doing something he ought not to do?

I should like to have notice of any particular case.

Is it not desirable in the public interest that the controller, who knows a man's work and capacity, should have the power of making representations with regard to his promotion rather than the staff side of the Whiteley Council, who may not know the man at all?

Perhaps I have not made the point quite clear to my hon. Friend. It does not follow by any means that the promotions board always accept the recommendations made by the staff side of the Whitley Council, because they do not.

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the present position of many of the auxiliary sorters employed in the London postal service who are solely dependent on the earnings of their partial employment, he is now in a position to adopt, either fully or in part, the proposals submitted to him by the men's representatives in March last for an extension of the hours of employment?

The Auxiliary Sorters' Association were informed, in May last, that full and effective employment could not be found for auxiliary sorters throughout the extended period suggested by them; and the position in this respect is unchanged. Arrangements are being made, however, for them to be given the opportunity of performing full-time duties during the period of Christmas pressure.

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the special hardships suffered by the fishing communities in the Western Isles through the reduction of the mail and steamer services, he will see that there is no avoidable delay in restoring the regular facilities and, where possible, improving them?

I regret the inconvenience caused to the inhabitants. I am keeping a close watch on the situation in order to ensure that the services are resumed as soon as circumstances permit.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the main cause of dissatisfaction is the want of coal for the steamer company, and is he also aware that in County of Argyll ample coal is being produced to supply the Highlands, and will be intervene with the Coal Controller and see that the Highland steamships get all the coal they want from Argyll?

( for Mr. GILLETT) asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department as representing the First Commissioner of Works what is the estimated value of the plot of vacant land at the corner of Rosebery Avenue and King's Cross Road waiting to be used for an extension of the Post Office premises; how long has it been vacant; and when is it expected to make use of it?

I have been asked to reply. I regret that I am unable to give a valuation of the portion of the site referred to. It has been vacant since 1920. Building operations for the new Stamp Office which it is proposed to erect on this site have been suspended on account of the limitations on public expenditure imposed at the present time.

asked the Postmaster-General (1) if he will receive a deputation of representatives of the Association of ex-Service Civil Servants with reference to the issue of terminal notices to the 43 overseas and disabled temporary male clerks employed in the Savings Bank Department, Blythe Road, West Kensington; and if he is aware of the dissatisfaction occasioned by the suggested dismissal of these men?

(2) whether he is aware that 43 overseas and disabled ex-service male temporary clerks are in danger of dismissal from the Savings Bank Department, Blythe Road, West Kensington; whether, seeing that 73 temporary women are still to be retained, he will say whether any of these women are employed upon duties at any time performed by the men referred to, e.g., in the stock branches of the said Department; and whether he will give the date upon which it was decided by a sub-committee of the local Whitley Council to set aside approximately 140 posts in the stock and acknowledgment branches of the said Department for writing assistants?

asked the Postmaster-General whether incoming Southborough entrants to the Post Office Savings Bank Department will be actually employed upon the individual and identical duties now being carried out by the 43 overseas and disabled ex-service male temporary clerks?

The only overseas or disabled male temporary clerks in the Savings Bank Department who have received notice of discharge are those mentioned in my reply to a question put to me on the 9th instant by my right hon. Friend the Member for Hammersmith. Of the 43 temporary men at present employed in the Savings Bank Department, 18 are employed against posts for male clerical officers, and it will be necessary for them to give place shortly to successful Southborough candidates, who are entitled to prior consideration. Southborough entrants will be employed on the actual duties which the temporary clerks will vacate. The allocation of writing assistant posts in the stock and acknowledgment branches of the Savings Bank Department was decided by a sub-committee of the Departmental Whitley Council in March, 1923. The 70 temporary women clerks engaged in the Savings Bank Department are all engaged upon duties proper to writing assistants, and two only of these duties have at any time been performed by male temporary clerks. I am prepared to arrange for a deputation from the Association of ex-Service Civil Servants to be received by the Department.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the dissatisfaction of these ex-service men arises from the keeping on of temporary women clerks, who are largely doing the same work, while the ex-service men are being discharged?

I do not think that is so. Perhaps my hon. Friend will study my answer.

asked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to take steps, by legislation or otherwise, to protect the community from the possibility of the withdrawal of labour without notice or with insufficient notice from those essential services and industries on which the life of the community depends?

This matter and all cognate questions are under the consideration of the Government.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the strong opinion held throughout the country that, in the event of a recurrence of such an event as that which took place last May, not only the rank and file should suffer, as they did then, but those responsible for promoting and organising it should have some penalty put upon them to deter them?

Is the right hon. Gentleman also aware of a strong feeling in the country that this legislation should be accompanied by equally stringent legislation against the people who attempt to reduce wages?

That seems to be a matter for argument.

asked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce legislation to prolong the operation of the Rent Restrictions Act next Session?

I have been asked to reply. The Increase of Rent and Mortgage Interest (Restrictions) Act, 1920, continues in force in England and Wales till 25th December, 1927, and in Scotland until the 28th May, 1928. The question whether it will be necessary to prolong the operation of the Act will be very carefully considered, but my right hon. Friend is unable at present to make any announcement on the subject.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what amount has been received up to date from each of the Powers in connection with the War;

(2) what are the amounts still due to this country from each of the other countries in connection with the War?

The amounts received by this country on account of War Debts in respect of which Funding Agreements have been signed, and the total of the further amounts in principal and interest to be received under these Agreements over a total period of 62 years are as follow: Received. To be received. £ £ France … 2,000,000 797,400,000 Italy … 4,000,000 270,750,000 Rumania … 50,000 31,200,000 Totals … 6,050,000 1,099,350,000 As regards War Debts not yet funded and post-War debts I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the statement on page 96 of the Finance Accounts, 1925–26 (House of Commons Paper No. 90).

What interest is chargeable on these debt services?

That has been taken into consideration.

Are we any more likely to get the bulk of this money than we are to get the money which we allege is owed to us by Russia?

All these debts have been properly funded.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total amount now owing by this country to the United States?

The capital amount of the British Debt to the United States Government now outstanding is $4,530,000,000 (about £932,000,000). The total amount of the payments for interest and redemption which have still to be made in the remainder of the 62 years' period under the Debt Funding Agreement is £2,170,000,000. In addition to the debt to the United States Government there are outstanding loans raised in the American market amounting to approximately $174,000,000, mostly carrying 5½ per cent. interest.

In replying to these questions will the right hon. Gentleman be very careful with the dots?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if any of the gold credits in the United States of America have been used by the Government?

No, Sir.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the general percentage of Russian import tariffs compared with British import duties?

I know of no practicable method of making a satisfactory comparison of the general levels of the Customs tariffs of Russia and this country.

Is it to be understood that the tariff walls of Russia are so high that the top cannot be seen?

No. They are in some cases very high, but I think it is impossible to make a comparison between a country which has the whole of its foreign trade in its own hands and therefore can exclude trade, quite irrespective of a tariff, with a country which has a very small tariff and where trade is completely free.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the official reports of the deputations which he received from the University of London in June last have been communicated to the members of the senate of the university; and whether he will now publish them?

The official reports of the deputations were communicated to the university authorities. I do not, however, think it desirable to publish them.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether there is any likelihood of legislation for the purposes of abolishing the 12 years' residence condition imposed on natural-born British subjects by the Old Age Pensions Acts, 1908–24, with the exception of the provisos ( a ) to ( e ) to that condition, and incorporating the two years' residence condition, but not the employment conditions, imposed by and under the Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Contributory Pensions Act, 1925, but with the substitution of the United Kingdom for Great Britain?

No, Sir.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many landed estates have been transferred to private companies in the past five years; what capital was involved; and what has been the difference in taxation in respect of super-tax, death duties, and other obligations?

The information desired is not available and, from the nature of the case, any estimate of loss of revenue due to the formation of these companies could only be purely conjectural. The general question of avoidance of taxation by means of the formation of companies is, however, one which is engaging the attention of the Government.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that landed estates are fixed capital, and that when they have to pay taxation in cash, and the same method of taxation is applied to them as to liquid capital, it destroys the whole symmetry of every landed estate?

I think that is a question which might be raised when the Budget is under discussion next year.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the customs authorities charge the full duty on Rhodesian tobacco sent through the post to private purchasers in this country, and if the Commissioners of Customs will make such regulations as may be necessary to secure that Empire tobacco so sent may receive the preferential rebate when full postal charges have been prepaid?

The preferential rate of duty is charged upon Rhodesian or other Empire tobacco, whether imported as cargo or by parcel post, provided that its title to preference is properly established.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if Germany has made any anticipatory payments under discount under the Dawes plan?

In September last an Agreement was made with the German Government whereby a fixed payment of 300,000,000 gold marks (£15,000,000) during the third annuity year of the Dawes plan (1st September, 1926, to 31st August, 1927) was substituted for a contingent liability of 250,000,000 gold marks (£12,500,000) payable in the fourth and fifth years, or 500,000,000 gold marks (£25,000,000) in all. The reparation payments since September last include the proper addition due under this Agreement.

A full explanation of the Agreement was published in the Press by the Agent-General for Reparation Payments on 3rd September, and I am having a copy of this statement circulated in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

What was the discount allowed on these prepayments?

I must ask for notice of that question.

Following is the statement mentioned:

The Agent-General for Reparation Payments announces that, with the approval of the Reparation Commission and the Governments concerned, he has now concluded an agreement with the Finance Minister of the Reich liquidating by a lump-sum payment the two supplemental budgetary contributions payable by the German Government in respect of the third and fourth annuity years. The new arrangement substitutes for a total contingent liability of 500 million gold marks a fixed payment of 300 million gold marks, all of which is to be paid during the third annuity year, which began 1st September, 1926, and ends 31st August, 1927.

Under the provisions of the experts' plan the reparation annuity payable by Germany for the third annuity year would amount to 1,200 million gold marks, and for the fourth annuity year to 1,750 million gold marks. Of these payments the plan provided that the German budget would contribute 110 million gold marks for the third annuity year, and 500 million gold marks for the fourth annuity year. At the same time, however, the plan and the London Agreement provided that these budgetary contributions should be subject to modification by amounts not to exceed 250 million gold marks for each year, depending on the yield of the controlled revenues. If the aggregate yield of the controlled revenues were to exceed or fall short of 1,000 million gold marks during the annuity year (1926–1927), or 1,250 million gold marks during the annuity year (1927–1928), the budget contributions of the next succeeding years respectively were to be increased, or reduced, as the case might be, by an amount equivalent to one-third of the excess or deficit in the controlled revenues, but not to exceed 250 million gold marks for either year. In actual experience, the aggregate yield of the controlled revenues during the first annuity year (1924–1925), amounted to 1,706 million reichsmarks, and the estimates indicate for the second annuity year (1925–1926), aggregate returns of over 1,900 million reichsmarks. On this basis, the yield from the controlled revenues in the third and fourth annuity years was likely to bring the contingency into operation, and to make the German budget liable, in all probability, for supplemental contributions on account of both years. The agreement which has now been concluded replaces the two contingent annual contributions, which might otherwise have risen to a total of 500 million gold marks, with a single definite payment of 300 million gold marks, which Germany is to make during the third annuity year.

The result is an important change in the arrangement of the annuities payable under the terms of the plan. Without the new agreement, the annuities would have risen from 1,200 million gold marks in the third annuity year (1926–1927), to 2,000 million gold marks in the fourth annuity year (1927–1928), and 2,750 million gold marks in the fifth annuity year (1928–1929), assuming that the maximum supplemental contributions had become payable. This would have meant an increased burden on the German economy of 800 million gold marks in the fourth year, as compared with the third, and a further heavy increase in the fifth year as compared with the fourth. The new arrangement, on the other hand, means that the third annuity will amount to 1,500 million gold marks, as compared with 1,220 millions in the second annuity year, while the fourth annuity will stand at 1,750 million gold marks and the fifth at 2,500 millions. The result is a better arrangement of the annuities, which will reduce the danger of undue strain on the German economy and facilitate the even flow of deliveries and payments.

The agreement as a whole will contribute substantially to the smooth operation of the experts' plan, and, incidentally, will facilitate its administration by eliminating factors of uncertainty that might otherwise be troublesome. One further effect will be to increase by a substantial amount the funds available for deliveries in kind during the third annuity year.

This settlement of the question of the supplementary budgetary contributions has been made by the mutual consent of all the parties, in the conviction that it will facilitate the operation of the experts' plan and promote the best interests of all concerned. It is thus a further evidence of the spirit of friendly accommodation, and a new earnest of the good will and mutual understanding that lie at the basis of the plan itself.