asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he now has information about the situation at Ningpo and the occupation of the Ningpo Trinity College belonging to the Church Missionary Society; and whether negotiations are in progress between His Maesty's Government and the Chinese Government, or the governing body concerned, for the return of this property, and also for the return of the Church Missionary Society's hospital at Hangchow?

I am informed by the Church Missionary Society that a telegram received this week reports the threatened confiscation of their property at Hangshow, but that the hospital there is still open. Apart from this I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member on the 14th instant.

His Majesty's Minister at Peking has been instructed to furnish a report on this matter. He states that a preliminary report was posted on the 12th instant, and as it is being sent by the quickest route, it should reach me in a few days' time, when I will endeavour to give the hon. and gallant Member the information he desires.

With reference to the second part of my question as to negotiations for the restoration of this property, would not the right hon. Gentleman consider giving instructions that negotiations be tried to see if this property could not be returned by agreement?

I have no doubt that the Consular officers will do anything they can to secure any return of the property taken, but I think before issuing any instructions I had better wait to receive their report, and see whether, in fact, instructions are required.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether an offer for the unconditional surrender of Wei-hai-Wei has been made to the Peking Government; and whether a similar offer has been made to the Nationalist Government of China?

As regards the first part of the hon. Member's question, I would refer him to the reply given to the hon. Member for Batley and Morley (Mr. Forrest) on the 7th instant. The reply to the second part of his question is in the negative.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can make any statement with regard to the position of the foreign community at Canton; whether any attack has been made on the settlement at Shameen during the present year; whether foreigners are able to move freely in the native city of Canton; and whether any negotiations are taking place with the Nationalist Government as to the future of the foreign settlement at Canton?

In January, as a result of mendacious propaganda based on the events at Hankow, a violent agitation was worked up in Canton, and it was threatened that the concessions there would be occupied by force. Preparations were made to defend the British and French concessions against a mob attack, and arrangements were made to evacuate women and children in case of an emergency. The British, United States and French consular representatives warned the Chinese authorities against a repetition at Canton of the tactics employed at Hankow, and the demonstrations passed off without any overt act of hostility.

I have no precise information regarding the third part of the question, but the situation in Canton has since continued to be outwardly calm, and no cases of molestation have recently come to my notice.

As regards the fourth part, the proposals communicated to Mr. Chen by Mr. O'Malley in January declared the willingness of His Majesty's Government to discuss and enter into arrangements for the modification of the municipal arrangements of all British concessions, but no negotiations have as yet been initiated with regard to that at Cantos.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the Government of Canton had any part in preventing the threatened disorder?

I should be very sorry to "say exactly how far the authorities connected with the Canton Government or nominally under their control are, or are not, concerned in particular acts of disorder, or in preventing acts of disorder. The position in China is rather anarchical, certainly very disturbed, and one finds very different conditions, and, apparently, different dispositions prevailing among different authorities in different parts.

Are disorders always to be blamed on the Canton Government, and when good order is maintained, are they to receive no credit?

That is a suggestion by the hon. and gallant Gentleman.

I prefer to adhere to my answer.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether Lord Cecil was expressing the policy of the Cabinet when he stated, in a speech delivered at Trowbridge, that if the Cantonese Government would bring their dispute before the League of Nations His Majesty's Government would welcome that step; and, if so, whether this offer has been officially conveyed to the Cantonese, Government?

I understand that what my Noble Friend said was that if the Cantonese themselves were to desire to bring the matter before the League of Nations, His Majesty's Government would desire to raise no meticulous objections, but would be only too glad to get the matter transferred to an atmosphere where a real settlement could be arrived at. This is in complete accord with the last paragraph of the statement of British policy in China addressed to the Secretary-General of the League of Nations on 8th February. The text of that paragraph was given to the House on 16th February in reply to a question by the hon. Member for Peckham (Mr. Dalton). The reply to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Has any communication, direct or indirect, been made to the Cantonese Government that the Government are willing to support any such claim?

No, Sir; no communication has been made direct to them.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the number of British subjects who have gone to France for the 12 months ended to the last convenient date who have been in possession of a labour contract known as a contrat de travail; and whether an official warning is issued to all British subjects travelling to France who are seeking employment that this is essential?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The labour contract is obtained by the prospective employer in France from the French authorities, and is at no time referred to a Department of His Majesty's Government. As regards the second part of the question, the answer is in the affirmative in so far as concerns persons who apply for a passport. In the case of persons already in possession of a passport there is no means of ensuring that they are aware of the regulations. With the view, however, of giving the widest possible publicity to the requirements of the French regulations, several notices have been issued to the Press in addition to information given in this House.

Could the right hon. Gentleman say how long these contracts arc available?

I could not say without notice, but I am not sure that it is given.

BY asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether ho can inform this House of the precise nature of the agreement reached by the Council of the League of Nations with regard to the International Railway Police Force for the Saar?

The resolution adopted by the Council on 12th March, 1927, is as follows:

"The Council takes note of the report of the Governing Commission dated 18th February, 1927, with regard to the freedom of transport and transit on the railways of the Saar Territory.

The organisation proposed by the Governing Commission will be put into effect within a maximum delay of three months and therefore the troops stationed in the Territory of the Saar will be withdrawn within that period.

The Railway Commission and the Railway Defence Force will be under the orders of the Governing Commission and will be responsible to the Governing Commission.

The Railway Defence Force can only take action affecting the population under exceptional circumstances. The strength of 800 which is indicated for this force represents the maximum. Should the Governing Commission think that a reduction of this number is possible, it is entitled to take the necessary measures to that effect without being obliged previously to refer the matter to the Council."

The report of the Saar Governing Commission of 18th February, which will in due course be published in the official journal of the League of Nations, recommended that there should be placed at its disposal a railway commission and a railway defence force of 800 men for the exclusive purpose of safeguarding transit and transport through the Saar territory; further, that in case of necessity it should be able to call in two battalions of French troops from outside the territory.

May I ask whether these 800 railway defence force troops are paid for by the Saar people or by the French Government?

No, Sir, they have to be paid for by the Governments, from whose forces they are drawn.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs which are the States where the national or local laws fail to comply with existing international conventions as to the white slave traffic, as stated in the League of Nations Committee's Report?

No, Sir. In the Report the authors state categorically that they wish to make it clear that they do not intend to single out any particular country, or to suggest any criticism whatever of its authorities.

Is it not important that these particulars should be known, so that those involved can be pilloried by the public?

I think my Noble Friend has not read the Report. If he does so, he will find that the Report uses this language:

"We wish to make it clear that when countries are referred to by name it is not intended to single out any particular country or to Suggest any criticism whatever of its authorities. All nations alike are equally desirous of stamping out this evil, but the circumstances of some countries undoubtedly make the task more difficult than it is for others. The possibility of further action must depend on finding the weak points in existing international machinery, and in trying to strengthen it by effective co-operation."

asked the Secretary of State for War what provision is made in the Army Estimates for the military representatives of this country on the Permanent Advisory Commission on Armaments in connection with the League of Nations?

Approximately £1,300 is included in Army Estimates in respect of the pay and allowances of the British military representative on the Commission.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that a. rotary conference is taking place at Ostend in the month of June, which will be attended by many delegates, including a large number of influential citizens of the United States of America; and whether he will give them the same facilities, as far as visas are concerned, as those given to the American Legionaries?

Yes, Sir. I should explain that the position of the persons who are to attend the Rotary Conference differs a good deal from that of the American Legionaries. The treatment to be accorded to the former is under consideration.

Does not my right hon. Friend think it worth while to take any steps to encourage people to come to this country?

That question is framed in rather wide terms.

But, surely, in view of the position of these gentlemen, would it not be advisable to exercise any means possible to bring them here?

That is not the question put to me a moment ago, which was whether it was worth while to take any steps to induce anyone to visit this country.

In view of the fact that this visa for American passports is rather a slur upon the Americans, could not the right hon. Gentleman do what is possible to make exceptions such as these in order to assist in developing a mind both in America and here which would do away with this visa altogether?

We should be glad to make large changes if only we could get the same facilities for our citizens going to America as it is suggested we should grant to Americans coming here.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has had any corfirmation from His Majesty's Minister at Belgrade of the military preparation;; in Yugoslavia of which the Italian Government have complained in their note to His Majesty's Government?

Yes, Sir. I have received reports from His Majesty's Minister at Belgrade on certain measures taken for increasing the efficiency of the Yugo-Slay Army. They are represented as steps taken in the ordinary course of army reform. The hon. Member will no doubt have seen the speech of the Yugo-Slay Minister for Foreign Affairs in the Skuptchina and his repudiation of any idea of hostilities.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any intention of setting in motion the machinery for convening a meeting of the Council of the League of Nations to deal with the Italy-Albania-Yugoslavia crisis?

No, Sir; my information does not lead me to think that recourse to the League will be necessary.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the last concluded Treaty between Italy and Albania has yet been deposited at Geneva; and whether its provisions can now be made known to the House?

I understand that the Treaty has been deposited at Geneva, but the monthly lists of Treaties registered at the League of Nations, which are issued by the Secretariat-General, only appear two or three months late and that for February is, I understand, not yet available; but I should be happy to show a copy of the Treaty to the hon. and gallant Gentleman if he so desires.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he has received a Report with reference to the occurrence in which Submarine L 22 got into difficulties on a shingle bank off Clarence Pier, Portsmouth; whether Submarine H 42, which went to its assistance, met with a similar mishap; if an inquiry has been held, and, if so, will he state the result of the same?

The Admiralty have received and considered reports of this incident, including that of a Court of Inquiry. Briefly the facts are that the Commanding Officer of "L 22," in attempting a difficult turn, by an error of judgment underestimated the probable effect of the strong ebb tide and the prevailing wind, with the result that his vessel ran aground. Submarine"H48,"summoned to "L 22's" assistance, and set an impossible task of pulling her off, grounded also. Neither vessel was damaged. The Admiralty have taken action appropriate to a case of error of judgment, but do not consider that the facts disclosed require a court martial.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty at what period of the year the new construction of warships for this year would have been commenced normally if no invitation had been received from the President of the United States of America to a conference on naval shipbuilding; and at what date in this year will this new construction commence, especially of the three cruisers to be built this year?

Normally the orders would be placed in the early autumn. This year we had decided, before the message from President Coolidge arrived, to order the two minesweepers in September and the rest in February.

Then this postponement has nothing at all to do with the coming conference, and in that case will the right hon. Gentleman consider the question of a further postponement?

No, Sir; as I said in the answer, it had nothing to do with the coming conference, but I am not prepared to consider any further postponement.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will furnish the number of short-service ordinary seamen entered between the 1st April, 1926, and the 31st January, 1927?

The number of short-service seamen entered between 1st April, 1926, and 31st January, 1927, was 519.

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman say if that is the number the Admiralty expected?

Yes, I think that is so.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will consider the introduction of a number of waterproof covers for hammocks for use when ratings are travelling, observing that at present there is no protection against rain or dirt on railway platforms and guards' vans, and that nammocks frequently become wet and dirty whilst ratings are proceeding from one ship to another?

This matter is already receiving consideration.

Can the hon. And gallant Gentleman say what is the cost of the waterproof covers?

I cannot give that information at the moment.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the recent permission for naval ratings who cycle and motor cycle to wear brown leather gauntlet gloves, he will grant permission for chief and petty officers to wear brown leather gloves as an article of uniform, and thus place them on an equal footing with sergeants of marines who are junior in rank to them?

The answer is in the negative

Could my hon. and gallant Friend give me any reason?

The reason is that chief petty officers and petty officers are at present allowed to wear white woollen gloves and other ratings blue woollen gloves.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can arrange for one of the two B-class cruisers, which are to be built in His Majesty's dock yards, to be built at Devonport?

The allocation of the two "B" class cruisers of the 1927 New Programme proposed to be built in His Majesty's dockyards is one to Portsmouth and one to Devonport.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether any further experiments are being conducted into the methods whereby a sunken submarine may make its position known; and. whether there is any expectation that these experiments may lead to the discovery of a satisfactory device?

A trial apparatus of a new type is being fitted in a submarine and experiments will shortly be carried out.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty why a greater percentage of recruits joining the Royal Navy are now invalided on account of some physical or medical disability within 12 months of their engagement, as compared with before the War; and whether the conditions of service are now more arduous?

The percentage of invalidings in 1925 was 2·85, as compared with 2·51, 2·48 and 2·73 in 1913, 1912 and 1911 respectively. No reliable deductions can be drawn from these figures and there is no evidence to show that the conditions of service are now more arduous.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what orders have been placed by the Department with the Midland Coal, Coke, and Iron Company, Limited, of Apedale, Staffordshire, during the 10 years ending the 31st December, 1926, and during 1927; the value of such contracts; and if further orders are contemplated?

The reply to the first part of the question is none, so that the second part does not arise. No direct orders to this firm are in contemplation.

asked the Minister of Labour what percentage of juveniles who registered for employment obtained employment in 1926; and what percentage of these had good prospects of permanency?

I regret that the information asked for is not available. The only figure I can give is the percentage of vacancies filled to vacancies notified, namely, 82.

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman collect information from the juvenile Employment Exchanges?

I am not certain whether it would be possible, but I know that in any case it would be a matter of some difficulty. I have some figures which do not amount to actual percentages, and all that information I will gladly show to the hon. Member if he wishes.

asked the Minister of Labour if, in view of the findings of the Blanesburgh Committee's Report, he will state the total number of insured workers and the number who have made 30 or more contributions in the preceding two years?

At July, 1926, the estimated number of persons insured under the Unemployment Insurance Acts in Great Britain, including persons insured under special schemes was 11,773,700. An estimate is being prepared of the proportion of those claiming benefit who have paid 30 or more contributions in the preceding two years, but it is not yet available.

How soon will the information be available?

I could not say off-hand. Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a question later; or, if he chooses, I will try to find out.

asked the Minister of Labour whether any estimate has been made by the actuaries or his advisers as to the total saving providing the recommendations of the Blanesburgh Committee are adopted?

I would refer the hon. Member to the Report of the Government Actuary, published as Appendix No. 2 to the Report of Lord Blanesburgh's Committee.

asked the Minister of Labour what was the number of women employed upon unemployment relief schemes undertaken with Government assistance during 1926?

No schemes providing for the direct employment of women were submitted to the Unemployment Grants Committee or Ministry of Transport during 1926.

asked the Minister of Labour what, if any, increase there has been during the last 12 months in the number of cases and in the staff at the Shoreditch Employment Exchange; and whether it is proposed, and, if so, where and when, to erect a permanent building to provide proper accommodation for the staff side as well as the employers and employès using the Exchange?

On 14th March, 1927, the number of persons registered as unemployed at the Shoreditch Employment Exchange was 5,021, and the staff in post 44. On the corresponding date last year the number registered as unemployed was 5,232, and the staff in post 43.

A permanent building, to provide accommodation for the whole staff, as well as for employers and employés using the Exchange, is in course of construction in Kingsland Road, and already the Men's Department is in occupation of the new premises. It is hoped that the remainder of the building will be completed in the course of a few months. The staffing position at the moment is affected by the disturbance and dislocation caused through building operations.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the victimisation of workers by certain employers of labour who are on the War Office, Admiralty, and India list; and whether he will consider the desirability of strengthening the Fair Wages Clause to deal with such cases?

I have received no representations on the point raised in the first part of the question.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider this matter if I send him particulars?

Certainly, I will gladly consider any particulars.

Do I understand that the right hon. Gentleman has power to deal with this matter under the Fair Wages Clause?

No, I should have to refer it to the different Departments concerned.

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the approach of the potato-lifting season, followed by the hay and grain harvest and the fruit-picking season, a period extending from the spring to the autumn, he will instruct the Employment Exchanges in Scotland to draw the attention of unemployed persons, particularly young men and women, to the special opportunities of securing healthy employment; and whether special arrangements will be made to notify employers of such seasonal labour of the number of hands available?

Yes, Sir, the Employment Exchanges in Scotland will, as formerly, do what they can to bring employers of seasonal labour into touch with unemployed workpeople who are suitable for this employment.

Has the right hon. Gentleman considered the advisability of making arrangements so that the conditions will be somewhat decent?

I think we always consider telling people to whom communications are made the state of the employment which is offered, but we cannot control it.

Will the right hon. Gentleman call the attention of his colleague the Secretary of State for Scotland to the fact that there is no need for employing young children in this work?

The Secretary of State for Scotland is sitting beside me and heard the answer.

It is for his benefit that I asked my question.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that out of 17 secondary schools in Glasgow only four are non-fee paying; that the Glasgow Education. Authority are proposing to impose fees in Shawlands Academy, which has been for many years a non-fee-paying school; and if he will regard three non-fee-paying secondary schools in Glasgow as satisfying the conditions of the Education (Scotland) Act, 1918?

The Department have addressed a communication to the Glasgow Education Authority regarding a proposal to charge fees at Shaw-lands Academy, and now await the Authority's reply. Until that has been received and considered, it is not possible for me to express any opinion on the questions involved.

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the Tilmanstone, Kent, Collieries Company have given 14 days' notice to their 900 enployés to terminate their engagement owing to the difficulty the company experience in transporting coal from the pit-head to Dover on reasonable terms; and whether his Department propose to take any steps to try to prevent this stoppage?

I have been asked to answer this question. I am aware of the circumstances referred to. The company, I understand, are convinced that they cannot make the colliery pay its way, unless they can reduce expenses of transport by means of an aerial ropeway to Dover Harbour. An application for the necessary rights was made to my Department under the Mines (Working Facilities and Support) Act, 1923, and was duly referred to the Railway and Canal Commission Court for decision. The Court, however, have refused the application. and though, I understand, they intimated that they would be prepared to consider the matter again if it were brought before them in a different way, my Department have no power to initiate any action.

Is it not a great pity that 900 men should be thrown out of work because the Railway and Canal Commissioners decline to allow the construction of this ropeway? Does not the hon. and gallant Member think a ropeway would materially reduce the costs; and may I ask whether he will not do anything to assist in this matter?

The hon. and gallant Member must not criticise the decisions of the Railway and Canal Commissioners.

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the screens of this mine are over a railway, and will nothing be done to get reduced rates from the railway?

As the hon. Member knows, negotiation has been going on of that point, and I hope very much that we have not heard the last of it. Anyone who reads the judgment will realise that it is possible that further action will be taken

On a point of Order. May I say that the last thing I wanted to do was to criticise a ruling of the Railway and Canal Commissioners, but I was desirous that, if possible, the right hon. and gallant Gentleman should do something to mitigate this evil, so that these men should not be thrown out of employment?

Could the right hon. and gallant Gentleman tell the House the main reason. for refusing this application?

I think the hon. Member had better read the judgment. It is a very long judgment, and many reasons are given, and I do not think it would be wise for me. to single out one. I can assure the hon. and gallant Member for Dulwich (Sir F. Hall) that anything we can do to help in this matter we sha. I do, but I have no power.

Seeing that the Secretary for Mines says he has no power to hold an inquiry into the stoppage of this pit, I want to ask whether the Minister of Labour has any power to hold an inquiry?

I am not certain that any dispute has arisen that would cause me to consider having a Court of Inquiry. Certainly there is as yet no case where I could exercise that discretion.

Does the Minister of Labour consider that there is no dispute when 900 men are given notice? Would not that be a dispute?

I think the hon. Member is imagining a dispute in this case.

Is not the real cause of the possible termination of these workmen's contracts the cost of royalties and wayleaves which are charged at present and which the owners cannot pay?

No, Sir. That reason has not been given by any responsible person, as far as I have heard.

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that, in spite of the adverse vote of the delegate of the British Government on the governing body of the International Labour Organisation in January last on the question of inscribing the international regulation of hours of labour on board ship, the governing body, by a majority vote, nevertheless resolved provisionally to inscribe this question on the agenda of such a conference, His Majesty's Government will take such steps as are in their power to ensure the success of this conference or, on the other hand, to make clear their reasons for opposing it?

It is hoped that any necessary regulation of the hours of labour on board ship will be effected by national agreements which, in the opinion of His Majesty's Government should precede any attempt to reach international agreement on so large a subject.

Has there been any change of policy?

My records of negotiations between the parties show that the policy of His Majesty's Government has been precisely the same for several years past.

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he can state the makers of the parachute now in use in the Royal Air Force, and in which country these parachutes are made; whether any recent tests have been made or demonstrations given for the use of the Salvator parachute invented by Lieutenant Freri, either at Hendon or elsewhere; and, if so, when and with what result?

As regards the first part of the question, the makers are the Irving Air Chute of Great Britain, Limited, of Letchworth, where the parachutes are being made. As regards the remaining parts,, the position remains as stated in my reply to the hon. Member on the 15th December last.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Salvator parachute has never failed yet, and does he not think the saving of life is of paramount importance?

I should not like to express an opinion on the Salvator parachute until we have carried our experiments further than we have done.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether delivery of the 2,230 parachutes against orders outstanding on 7th August, 1925, was duly completed by December, 1926; whether, in accordance with the arrangements made, one-third of these were manufactured in this country; whether further orders have been placed; if so, whether manufacture will take place in this country; whether British material will be used; and whether,, before any such order was placed, every available British type of parachute was thoroughly tried out?

As regards the first and second parts of the question, the number of parachutes due for delivery by December, 1926, was 1,500 and these were all actually delivered in June, 1926, the contract date thus being anticipated by some months. The contract was for 2,261 parachutes in all, as stated in my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Dulwich on the 25th November, 1925, and of these 7G1 were to be manufactured in this country and are at present in process of delivery. The answer to the third and fourth parts is in the affirmative. As regards the fifth part, all the material and components other than the silk will be British. As regards the last part, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply which I gave him on the 25th November, 1925, and to my speeches in the House, on 26th February and 24th June,, 1925, explaining the circumstances in which the contract with the Irving Company was placed.

Can the right hon. Baronet say whether we are pledged to take a further contract for any further number next year?

There is a contract running until December, 1927.

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he will state the total bomb-carrying capacity of the 16 bombing squadrons which form part of the Home Defence Air Force?

It would not be in the public interest to give tin's information.

asked the Secretary of State for Air if, in view of the inclusion of a preponderance of bombing squadrons in the Home Defence Air Force, he will state the function of such bombing squadrons in the scheme of home defence?

Is would not be in the public interest to give this information.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the public are very interested in knowing what the arrangements are to kill others?

May we take it as certain that these bombing squadrons are not intended for service in this country?

Is it not a fact that the doctrine of war is that offence is the best form of defence, and why does the right hon. Gentleman not admit that honestly?

I do not think that question arises out of the question on the Paper. I do not think it is necessary for me to explain to the House the principles of air warfare, and the hon. and gallant Gentleman is, I think, fully aware of them.

Is not the use of bombing squadrons to bomb the other people first, and why not say so?

asked the Secretary of State for Air if attendance at divine service is compulsory for all ranks at service air stations?

Yes, Sir.

Are the bombing pilots compelled to attend with other units, or are they exempted?

Yes, it applies to all units, equally.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the doctrine of the Golden Rule is inculcated to the bombing pilots at this divine service?

Surely that is a very proper question, Mr. Speaker.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in his recent investigation into the cause of flying accidents, he made any inquiry into the rules governing the consumption of alcoholic drink by flying officers, engineer officers, and mechanics during flying hours; and whether he received any complaints of overwork by flying officers?

Before this question is answered, may I ask whether it does not offend the rule against offensive insinuations?

I do not think it necessarily does. It is not a crime to consume alcoholic liquor.

On that point of Order, may I say that if the hon. Gentleman had been present during the discussion of the Air Estimates, he would have been aware that I made no charge of excessive drinking at all, and had no intention whatever of doing so.

For the reasons which I gave at some length in the course of the discussion on Air Estimates on the 10th March, I am not prepared to make public the detailed results of my investigation into the causes of flying accidents, though I have informed the House in general terms of my main conclusions. Accordingly, I deprecate inquiries on points of detail such as those contained in the hon. and gallant Member's question.

Since, however, it has been suggested in certain quarters that the consumption of alcohol has had some bearing on recent accidents, the House may like to know that I made very careful inquiries into this aspect of the matter, and satisfied myself completely that the consumption of alcohol amongst Royal Air Force personnel in general and officers in particular, far from being excessive, is very small. I also satisfied myself that there was no evidence to show that consumption of alcohol had caused or indeed contributed to any accidents.

I may add that there was also no evidence that overwork by flying officers had been the cause of any accidents.

While agreeing with the Prime Minister that there is no excessive consumption of alcoholic drink in the Air Force, may I ask if he is aware that the colleagues or even the commanding officers of flying officers are not likely to make definite charges which might get any of their comrades into trouble; but it is well known that in some few cases—I have some knowledge of this subject—moderate quantities of alcoholic liquor have been consumed immediately before flights, and all scientific opinion holds that this is a contributory cause of accidents. [HON. MEMBERS: "Speech!"] May I have a reply to that question?

The hon. Gentleman is making rather serious allegations.

Apart from the question altogether of the drinking of alcoholic liquors, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the "Army Quarterly" has a special article dealing with all the various points, and which seem to indicate very definite reasons for these accidents Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that those cogent reasons are worthy of being answered, and a report being made upon them?

That hardly arises. I have not seen that article.

asked the Secretary of State for Air the, total cost of Halton?

The total capital exponditure at the Royal Air Fcrce station at Halton under the capital sub heads of the buliding works Vote, Air Estimates, from 1st April, 1918, to 31st March, 1926, was approximately £2,131,000, but of this nearly a million was expenditure on wartime services and represents largely temporary buildings which have since been either reconditioned or demolished.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he has any official information as to the number of new pilots trained during the year 1926 by Soviet Russia; and whether he can give any comparative estimate with regard to other European Powers?

So far as I am aware no official information has been published upon the subject of my hon. and gallant Friend's question.

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he can give the average costs per mile flown for British aeroplanes for each of the years since 1921, and the total number of miles flown each year?

With the hon. Member's permission I will circulate the reply, which contains figures in a tabulated form, in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to accede to the request from the Independent Omnibus Owners' Association asking him to receive a deputation with reference to the offer of Lord Ashfield to purchase the whole of their omnibuses?

I understand from statements in the Press that the offer referred to by the hon. Member has been refused. If, however, the Association are still desirous of bringing a deputation and will communicate with the Minister of Transport, the Minister will be prepared to receive it and hear the representations which it is desired to make.

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the offer of Lord Ashfield to purchase the whole of the independent omnibuses in London; and, in view of the fact that the fares on these omnibuses are in some cases lower than the fares charged by other forms of passenger transport, what steps he proposes to take to protect the public from an increase in fares?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I understand, however, from the Press that the offer has been declined. On the general question of fares, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave yesterday to a question by my Hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Enfield (Colonel Applin), a copy of which I am sending him.

asked the Prime Minister whether the Cabinet has examined the Report of the committee set up to examine the position in relation to the Washington Convention on Hours of Labour with a view of coming to an early conclusion; and, if so, whether he can state the policy of the Government with regard to the ratification of this International Convention?

I am not yet in a position to make any statement on this subject.

Are the Government contemplating calling a conference of the smaller nations, who were not at the Conference of the chief countries held last year, before coining to a final decision on this matter?

I should like notice of that question.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether his Department are experimenting in balloon jumping; whether it is considered to have civil possibilities; and whether he can make any statement as to the present position and probable future progress of this invention?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the other parts, there has not, so far as I am aware, been any suggestion that the practice would do more than afford a novel form of sport, and I doubt whether it would benefit aviation in general.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India the number of men interned under the Bengal Ordinance; and the length of time they have been detained?

The latest figures I have, correct up to about March 12th, arc a total of 142 now detained under the Bengal Criminal Law Amendment Act, of whom 54 are in gaol, T5 detained in a specified area in villages, and 13 detained in their own homes. Of the total number, approximately one-third were arrested in October, 1924, and the others at different times later.

Could the Noble Lord say how many of these internees it is contemplated releasing in the immediate future?

The hon. Member had better put a question down as to that.

asked the Secretary of State for War the cost of a hospital bed per day and how it is, approximately, made up?

The estimated daily cost of each occupied bed is 13s. 7d., of which 2s. 6d. is for the patient's maintenance, 7s. 4d. for staff, and 3s. 9d. for standing charges.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what increase has taken place in the police force during last year; and what is the nature of the additional work devolving on it that necessitates the appointment of an additional inspector of constabulary at a salary of £1,000 a year?

The addition to the strength of the Forces under inspection in September, 1925-26, was 590 men. The addition to the number of His Majesty's Inspectors of Constabulary, however, was not necessitated by any additions to the strength or the duties of the police forces, but by the growth of the work devolving on His Majesty's inspectors themselves in their capacity as advisers to the Home Office on matters of police discipline and administration.

Does the right hon. Gentleman ask us to accept an excuse like that for this addition to the expenditure of the Home Office; and might I ask him what are the reasons at this particular juncture why the Home Office needs more advice than it needed in the past?

In answer to the first part of the hon. Member's supplementary question, I do ask the House to accept the statement I have made. In answer to the second part, the Home Office has for the last year or two taken a very great interest in the discipline and management of the various police forces. I have had two of His Majesty's inspectors constantly at work, and, in my view, the appointment of a third is essential.

In view of the fact that a retired pensioned officer has been appointed, would not the interests of efficiency have been better served if it had been a younger man?

I think not, I think that, for the purposes of inspection of the constabulary of different counties and districts, it is very essential to have a man of great experience. This gentleman has served in the police forces through all the ranks, and has retired from the post of chief constable. He knows the police from A to Z, and I think he will make a most admirable inspector.

Does the right hon. Gentleman suggest to us that there has been any serious lack of discipline in the police force in recent times'?

I have made no such suggestion.

Is the appointment due in any way to the provisions in the Police Bill that is now before the House having caused an increase in the duties of the Inspector-General of Constabulary?

No, I came to my conclusion entirely without reference to that Bill. I thought that there would be ample work, in looking after the interests of the police throughout the country, for a third inspector.

Can the right. hon. Gentleman say what pension this gentleman is receiving, in addition to his salary of £1,000 a year?

I am afraid I must ask for notice of that question.

Has not he earned that pension?

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the action of the St. Helen's Watch Committee in a recent case arising out of the strike; whether he is aware that the Chief Constable of St. Helen's was entirely ignored during the inquiry; and if the inquiry was in accordance with Home Office Rules and Regulations?

I am making inquiry, but until I have received a full report I shall not be in a position to say anything further.

Would it surprise the right hon. Gentleman to know that there is not the slightest foundation for this suggestion, but that he was at the inquiry when the case was dealt with and that he refused to give evidence? That is the evidence that I have.

No, Sir, nothing would surprise me. I have said nothing at all as to the accuracy of the statement made in this question; all that I have said is that I have asked for a report, and when I get it I shall be in a position to answer the question.

When the right hon. Gentleman has the report, will he also make his own inquiries into the conduct of this Chief Constable during the riot?

I think I had better get the report—it will be the report of the Watch Committee—first, and then consider the report.

Is it not the fact that the right hon. Gentleman has already had a report, in which it is disclosed that the Chief Constable was in fact present during the Watch Committee's inquiry?

As to that I personally cannot say. I thought it right, in consequence of this question, to ask for a full report on the whole matter from St. Helen's, and until I get it I cannot say anything further.

Is there a right of appeal against the Watch Committee's decision?

No, Sir.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in regard to the amount of reparation received by this country, in any one year this country has received from Germany and her other foreign debtors the equivalent amount that she has paid to America?

No, Sir. Up to the end of the calendar year 1926, the Exchequer has paid to the United States Government approximately £135½ millions, and has received for German Reparations and for War Debts from the Allies approximately £44 millions.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the amounts due for payment from this country, and expected to be paid to this country, for War debts in the forthcoming financial year?

The payment due from this country to the United States Government during the next financial year is £33 millions. The receipts from Allied War Debts are estimated at £10,350,000.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what percentage of imported tobacco is Empire grown; and what percentage is produced in the Union of South Africa?

Of the total imports of tobacco in 1926, about 15 per cent. was consigned from Empire countries, and about ¼ per cent. from the Union of South Africa.

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether the £72.000 a year that His Majesty's Government is advancing to make up the deficiency on the Anglo-French Guaranteed Turkish Loan of 1855 is being advanced to the Egyptian Government or to whom, and is it treated as a Grant-in-Aid or a loan; and why the French Government is not bearing its share of this deficiency on our joint guarantee to the bondholders?

The interest on the Ottoman Loan of 1855 is guaranteed jointly and severally by the British and French Governments. Egypt having defaulted in the payment of the £72,000 per annum due by her since July, 1924, His Majesty's Government have advanced to the agents for the service of the loan the sums necessary to cover the payment of the coupons, of which His Majesty's Government are the guarantors. When the Egyptian Government put an end to their default, these advances will be recovered, and in the meantime the question of the joint liability of France is under discussion with the French Government.

How much longer are we going to continue paying this money, when France owes an equal share with us in the guarantee?