asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the Secretary of State for India is aware that since June, 1927, officials in India have been deprived of the privilege of sending direct to him copies of petitions addressed to him of which the originals are transmitted through the regular official channel; and whether this change in procedure was made with the approval of the Secretary of State?

I must refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to him on 30th July last, to which I have nothing to add.

Is my Noble Friend aware that two petitions on a subject on which the India Office and the Government of India were in correspondence were sent in March of last year and were only forwarded to the India Office in July and that the claims of the petitioners were thereby prejudiced; and would it not be better to revert to the old practice whereby a copy of the petition had to be forwarded, through the Government of India, direct to the India Office?

No, Sir. There was no such privilege as my hon. and gallant Friend seems to assume to have existed in the past, and it would have been very strange if there had been, because, so far as I know, it is contrary to the practice in all the military and Civil Services of the Crown. My hon. and gallant Friend knows, from his own service in the Army, that no officer in the Army is allowed to send a petition direct to the Secretary of State for War, but that it has to be sent through the official channels. If there has been delay through the official channels, and my hon. and gallant Friend will send me specific cases, I will inquire into them.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he has now any information with regard to the official policy as to the later stages of the Bill at present before that body dealing with the minimum age of marriage?

I have no definite information, but have no reason to suppose that the Government have found reason to modify their intention, expressed in the Assembly in March last, to give this proposed Measure, in its revised form, their cordial support.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India if there is any limit as to the time which the three Sikhs, at present in prison in India under Regulation 111 of 1818, without trial may be detained on the ground that if they were released they might commit crime?

The answer to the legal question as put is in the negative, but I may inform the hon. Member that my Noble Friend is ascertaining the views of the Government of India as to these three persons.

Will the Noble Lord bear in mind that it is altogether un-English to keep people in prison for a long time without their having been tried, and merely on suspicion that they may commit a crime?

The hon. Gentleman should have made those representations to Lord Olivier in the late Government.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India if, in view of the fact that there are now no longer any prisoners being detained under the Bengal Criminal Ordinance Act and that there have been no arrests under this Act for the last 12 months, and having regard to the fact that the Act was brought into existence as an emergency measure, the Government will now suggest to the Government of India that the Act should be annulled?

The Bengal Criminal Law Amendment Act expires in April, 1930, if its duration is not prolonged. My Noble Friend sees no sufficient reason at present for taking any step of the kind suggested.

Is the Noble Lord aware that this Act was brought into being to meet an emergency, and that the facts show that the emergency has now passed away; and, in view of these circumstances, does he not think that it would be a good thing from the point of view of Indian opinion if some steps were taken to annul the Act?

I regret that I can add nothing to the answer I have already given.

asked the Under Secretary of State for India whether he has received a copy of papers and a petition from Mr. James Kirkwood, late of Calcutta, in which serious allegations are made regarding various public officials in Calcutta; and whether he will take any steps to ensure a proper examination of Mr. Kirkwood's allegations in the public interest?

Mr. Kirkwood on arrival in this country addressed my Noble Friend regarding his treatment by the management of a hotel in Calcutta and an alleged failure of the Chief Presidency Magistrate and various public officers to give him due protection. My Noble Friend was advised that Mr. Kirkwood's proper course was to seek a remedy in the Courts and he was informed accordingly.

Can the Noble Lord say whether Mr. Kirkwood also made allegations regarding the Chief of Police in Calcutta?

I should hesitate, and I am sure the hon. Member would appreciate my reason for doing so, to deal with these allegations, which are of a somewhat wild nature, because I think this unfortunate gentleman has been killed in France according to the newspapers I saw this morning. I should hesitate, if the hon. Member will excuse me from replying, to give a full answer to the allegations, which were made in a very long statement against 30 different authorities.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India the total present number of the factory inspectorate; and whether there has been any increase during the previous 12 months?

According to the latest information available, the total of the factory inspectorate in India is 49, including nine part-time additional factory inspectors. I am unable to say whether there has been any increase during the previous 12 months.

Does not the Noble Lord think that this is a very small number for India, and will he consider suggesting an increase in the number?

I do not think the hon. Member is aware that this comes under the transferred services, and that any consideration of the numbers required would be a matter for the local governments, the Provincial and Presidency Governments.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is now the white and coloured population of Nyasaland; whether he is aware that the estimated expenditure of the Colony for 1928 amounts to £493,385; by how much this expenditure would be further increased if the Zambesi bridge, costing £1,000,000, is sanctioned; and, before giving any such sanction, will he consider the views of the residents in Nyasaland on the increased charge or liability?

The returns for 1927 give the population of Nyasaland as follows:

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the number of taxpayers is rather small to take on this very heavy additional burden?

I hope that both the number and the resources of those taxpayers will be considerably increased as a result of improving communications.

When the Zambesi blows the bridge away?

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what information he has of the reported rising in Arabia in the territories of the King of the Hejaz; and whether British interests are affected in any way?

I have no information as to any rising in the territories of the King of the Hejaz.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies of what nature is the claim with regard to the Dead Sea salt concessions made by a foreign Power on behalf of its nationals; how does the matter now stand; whether he can state what has happened to the concession granted by the pre-War Turkish Government; and whether the International Court of Justice are to be asked to arbitrate in the matter?

Before the War, the Turkish Government are alleged to have granted to certain Ottoman subjects a concession for the extraction of certain substances from the waters of the Dead Sea. From time to time His Majesty's Government have been requested to recognise this concession; the most recent request was preferred on behalf of a French group which, it is understood, has acquired an interest in the concession at a comparatively recent date. His Majesty's Government, being advised that they were under no legal obligation to recognise the concession, have consistently and repeatedly declined to recognise it. I see no reason to modify this attitude or to refer the question to the Permanent Court of International Justice.

Under the Treaty of Lausanne, were not pre-War Turkish concessions upheld?

No, Sir, not to Turkish Concessionaires.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why the poorer citizens of the free city of Tel Aviv have been disfranchised after nine years of voting powers; why the powers of the municipal council have also been curtailed; who or what body was dissatisfied with labour rule in Tel Aviv, demanding this change; and whether he will ask the new high commissioner to inquire into the reasons for and justification of this action of the Palestinian Government?

There has been no curtailment of the powers of the local Council of Tel Aviv, but only a reduction in numbers. Nor do I understand that the raising of the voting qualification, which is still at a very low figure, would disqualify any large proportion of the electorate. These changes have not been concerned with the political views of the Council, but have been necessitated, in the opinion of the High Commissioner, by the financial difficulties in which the Municipality became involved.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Labour Government in Tel Aviv for many years worked admirably with the District Commissioner, Mr. Campbell?

I believe that the relations were very happy, but the municipality became hopelessly bankrupt.

Was the bankruptcy of this municipality due to the poorer voters who have now been disfranchised, and will this question be reconsidered by the new High Commissioner, now that he is in Palestine, as it is giving rise to great dissatisfaction?

I understand that the High Commissioner is satisfied that the changes were necessary.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any statement to make regarding the policy of His Majesty's Government towards the constitution of Ceylon?

I cannot at present add anything to the reply given to the hon. Member on the 19th November.

Will the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that he will not allow the views of a minority in Ceylon to prevent the granting of the franchise to the majority?

I will certainly consider very carefully all relevant matters.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is now in a position to make any further statement with regard to the future arrangements for emigration to Canada?

I am not yet in a position to make a further statement, but, if the hon. Member will repeat his question on Wednesday, I hope then to be able to do so.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of appointing a Committee to investigate every aspect of this question, and of asking the Canadian Government, having regard to recent events, to give impartial consideration to the matter at once?

I should have to consider that suggestion, and shall be very glad to discuss it with the right hon. Gentleman.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether any negotiations are proceeding between His Majesty's Government and the British steamship lines for a proportionate reduction in the fares of children travelling with their parents or in parties, who are proceeding from this country for the purpose of residing permanently in the Dominion of Canada?

In connection with the £10 ocean rate to Canada for British migrants, children under 10 years of age will be charged half-fare (£5), and those under one year £1. Children under 19 years, of age proceeding under the Government Assisted Passage Scheme, whether with their parents or under the auspices of recognised societies, receive free fares to their final destination in Canada.

Can the right hon. Gentleman make representations or arrange that children under 12 shall receive this benefit, instead of merely children under. 10?

These things have been worked out very carefully with the shipping companies, and it is rather difficult to alter the age after agreement has been reached.

Could it not be put on the same basis as railway fares in this country?

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs on what terms the £10 assisted passage rate to Canada has been arranged; with whom have these conditions been effected; and what are the Exchequer grants towards the cost of this proposal?

The difference between the new £10 rate for British migrants to Canada and the ordinary third-class rate, i.e., £18 15s., will he shared between His Majesty's Government in Great Britain and the British steamship lines. The contribution of His Majesty's Government will vary according to the numbers of passengers carried, but in no case will it exceed half of the cost of that difference.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the £2 assisted passage rate to Canada has been or is proposed to be discontinued?

The £2 assisted passage rate to Canada will continue to be available for approved families proceeding to agricultural work and for women household workers, and free passages will be granted to children and juveniles up to 19 years of age. The £2 rate will not be available for single men over 19 years of age after the end of this year, but they will, of course, be able to travel at the new £10 ocean rate for British migrants.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware that the latest Canadian Returns show that for every British immigrant entering Canada there are more than two from non-British countries; and whether the measures in prospect will serve to remove that disparity?

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware that, according to official Canadian Returns, 47,390 migrants from Great Britain entered Canada in the migration season of 1928, and 62,990 from foreign countries other than the United States, including large numbers of Ruthenians, Germans, Poles, Magyars, Slovaks, and Jugo-Slays; and whether he will ask the Oversea Settlement Committee to consider how best to respond to the British-preferred policy of the Canadian Government?

I understand that the facts are as stated. The question of the measures to be taken to increase migration from this country to Canada is one which is under constant study by the Oversea Settlement Committee. As an instance of action recently taken. I may refer to the announcement which I made in this House on the 7th instant as to the arrangement reached with the shipping companies for a reduction in the passage rate for British migrants to Canada.

Has the right hon. Gentleman seen a telegram from Ottawa, dated Saturday, as to the division of administrative expenses between Canada and the British Government, and the statement of the Director of Colonisation of the Canadian National Railways that the costs paid by Dominion organisations are approximately 20 times the cost borne by our Treasury?

No, I have not seen that statement.

Is it not a fact that many large employers in Canada prefer to employ non-British immigrants because they are prepared to accept lower wages than Englishmen?

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Government have approved of the allocation of the necessary expenditure in connection with the proved scheme of development under the Empire development scheme on the Lachlan River Valley, New South Wales; state the sum involved, the area of land to be dealt with, the number of wheat farmers that can be settled in this area, the average area per. settler, the cost per acre to the individual selector, and the method of repayment?

A scheme for the construction of a dam at Wyangala, to pro vide for the irrigation of a large area of. Crown and other land on the Lachlan River, New South Wales, was approved under the Commonwealth Loan Agreement in October last. The total cost of the scheme is estimated at £1,500,000 spread over five years, and the cost to His Majesty's Government. will be a fifth of this amount. The area to be served by the scheme is 1.400,000 acres, of which approximately one-half is Crown land. It is estimated that about 630 new farms will be created mainly for wheat. The average size of the farms, the cost per acre and the terms of repayment will be determined by the Government of New South Wales.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs, (1), if he can inform the House as to whether Messrs. Wigg and Cochrane, the appellants who woe their case before the Privy Council in May, 1927, have now been paid the compensation awarded to them: and, if not. what action the British Government are taking to secure the payments to which their former servants have been held t(, be entitled under Article 10 of the Irish Treaty;

In reply to these two questions, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave to similar questions by him on Monday, 26th November, to which I am not at present in a position to add anything.

Can my right hon. Friend say whether the British Government still recognise their responsibility for seeing that these ex-British servants of the British Crown shall receive their rights to which they have been held to he entitled?

Oh, yes, the British Government still fully recognise their responsibility in this matter, as they have before, but I am not yet in a position to give an answer to my hon. Friend.

Can my right hon. Friend say approximately when this matter will be decided, because these unfortunate people have now been without the compensation, to which they have been twice held by the Privy Council to be entitled, for more than two years, and many for a longer period?

Naturally, I should like to make a statement as soon as possible, and I hope to be in a position to do so as soon as we meet again.

asked the Secretary of state for Dominion Affairs the number of claims of Southern Irish loyalists in respect of loss and damage to person and property which have still to be disposed of by the Irish Grants Committee; when it is expected that the hearing of these claims will be completed; whether the outstanding balance still due to those who have already had their claims heard and settled can now be paid; and, if not, when it is expected that this balance will be paid?

With regard to the first two parts of my hon. Friend's question, I would refer to the reply which I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Chelmsford (Colonel Howard-Bury) on the 12th November. Since that date 120 further cases have been dealt with by the Irish Grants Committee. As regards the last two parts of the question, it will be recalled that the Chancellor of the Exchequer stated on the 20th February last, that a sum not exceeding £1,000,000 would be held available as required in satisfaction of these claims, that all awards up to £1,000 would at once be paid in full, that of the excess over that figure 60 per cent. would he advanced immediately, that the residue would be applied to the recommendations at the close of the Inquiry so far as they had not already been implemented, and that this decision must be taken as final so far as His Majesty's present advisers are concerned. It has now become clear that payment on the above scale—that is, payment in full of all awards up to £1,000, and 60 per cent. of the excess over that figure—will involve the expenditure of at least the sum of £1,000,000 which was allocated, and in these circumstances no payments in addition to those on the scale now authorised can be made. I may add that under the operation of the authorised scale 32 per cent. of the recommendations so far made by the Committee have been paid in full. In the case of the remaining recommendations, two-thirds of the claimants, or another 12 per cent. of the whole, have been paid amounts varying from 75 to 99 per cent. of the full amount recommended.

Do we understand that the British Government are declining to be responsible for 40 per cent. of the damages to which these unfortunate people have been held to be entitled by a Commission specially appointed with the authority of the British Government?

No, Sir; my hon. Friend is not quite correct in his figures. The payment made in respect of these claims is not 60 per cent. of the awards, but the whole of the awards up to £1,000 and 60 per cent. of the remainder. As I pointed out in my answer, that means payment in full of 82 per cent. of the awards, and from 75 to 99 per cent. of the full payment in the case of another 12 per cent.

Is it not true that there is a difference of over 50 per cent. being claimed?

In many cases that and more.

What is the reason for the application of the epithet "Loyalist" to one particular section of His Majesty's subjects in Ireland?

Do we understand that £1,000,000 has all been expended, or does a substantial balance remain to meet outstanding claims?

£1,000,000 has been set aside as the final sum the Government are prepared to pay. Out of that £1,000,000, very considerable payments have already been made in full payment of awards up to £1,000, and of full payment of the first £1,000 and 60 per cent. of the rest. The satisfaction of all the claims awarded or likely to have an award is likely to involve, at the rate of £1,000 plus GO per cent., a sum of possibly £50,000 over £1,000,000.

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean to say the Government are quibbling at these small sums and are not going to pay the full recommendation of the Committee which they themselves set up to inquire into the case and which has done it so very thoroughly and carefully?

We discussed the matter very fully in February, and the Government, while paying every tribute to the care and impartiality of the Committee, did announce that £1,000,000 represented the sum total of the payment that was going to be made:

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, with regard to the new trade treaty between South Africa and Germany, he can state the number and most important articles at present enjoying Empire preference, and what are the maximum and minimum amounts of preference; and whether he will publish the representations made by the British Government with regard to this treaty?

As regards the first part of the question, I fear that it would not be possible to give the desired information within the limits of a reply to a Parliamentary question, but I shall be happy to send my hon. and gallant Friend copies of the relevant Union legislation. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative, but the general nature of the communications with the Union Government on the subject of the Commercial Treaty with Germany was described in the reply given, on my behalf, by my right hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies to questions on 4th December.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are very few articles which have these preferences to-day, and will he agree, from the special significance the German papers attach to it, that this is a breach in our Government policy of Empire Preference?

I think, when the hon. and gallant. Gentleman sees the list, he will find that it is a very considerable one.

Are we to regard this question as now closed, or is it still to be the subject of communication between himself and the South African Government?

No further communications as far as I know, are likely to pass between the British Government and the Union Government on the subject, but the matter is still subject to the consent of the South African Parliament.

In view of recent reports published by the Overseas Trade Department, which indicate very serious loss to British trade owing to neglect of marketing conditions, will not the right hon. Gentleman pay attention to that side of the subject?

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what are the titles of lectures subsidized by the Empire Marketing. Board since 1st January, 1928, and by whom were the lectures delivered.

The titles of the lectures available for inclusion in the Board's subsidy scheme, together with the names of the lecturers, are contained in three printed lists, copies of which I am sending to my hon. Friend.

Will the right hon. Gentleman himself examine the lectures given under the auspices of the Selborne Society, and let us know what help can be given to the disposal of Empire goods by lectures entitled "Some Curiosities of Currency."

I am not sure that all the lectures are made on behalf of the Empire Marketing Board. I should like to look into it.

Will the right hon. Gentleman reply to the last part of the question?

I mentioned the names of the lecturers. They will be sent to my hon. Friend too. They are on the same list.

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he can state the number of British firms who exhibited goods, or were represented, at the Leipzig autumn fair, 1928, and the industries with which they were connected; and how many have, so far, made application for space for exhibits at the spring fair 1930?

According to a report received from the British Consulate at Leipzig, the number of British exhibitors at the Autumn Fair this year was 33. The principal exhibits were sports goods and clothing, knitted goods, leather goods, ceramic ware, motor cars and cycles, perfumery and toilet articles, gramophones and gramophone records, toys and household goods. No information is available in the Department as to the number of British firms who have applied for space at the Spring Fair in 1930.

Have the Government taken any steps to induce British manufacturers to exhibit at this fair?

We are giving them every opportunity by giving full information.

May we take it that the Department is giving facilities with regard to language and classification?

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is taking steps to call attention to British manufacturers at the forthcoming fair at Leipzig at the beginning of March next year, so that advantage may be taken of this medium for the exhibition of British manufactures with the object of the extension of British trade throughout Central Europe; and if he contemplates the organisation of a joint exhibit of British manufactures for this fair in co-operation with trade organisations in this country?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, in view of its other commitments my Department is unable to undertake any responsibility in connection with the orgarisation of a joint exhibit of British manufacturers at the next Leipzig Fair. I feel sure, however, that such an exhibit, if judiciously selected, might be productive of increased trade for the firms participating, and my Department would be prepared to co-operate with any suitable body which undertook the orgarisation of a joint exhibit.

If the Government are satisfied that exhibits at this fair are likely to be advantageous to British manufacturers, cannot my hon. Friend reconsider the proposition on the lines of the question of my hon. Friend and give some tangible assistance to British manufactures?

It is because we do give at the present time such a large amount of tangible assistance to British manufactures that I am afraid at the moment we cannot go any further.

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he contemplates any action for the encouragement of British exhibits at the Barcelona exhibition to be held next year, with the object of extending British trade in Spain; and if his Department is prepared to give financial support to an organised effort for a joint exhibit of British manufactures at Barcelona?

In view of the other commitments of my Department in connection with the organisation of exhibitions, and in view of the financial situation, His Majesty's Government felt unable to accept the invitation of the Spanish Government to participate officially in the Barcelona Exhibition. Close touch has, however, been maintained with the British Chamber of Commerce in Spain and full information as to the British firms likely to be interested has been provided. Publicity has been given to the exhibition in the Board of Trade Journal, and information and literature have been distributed to prospective British exhibitors. With regard to the last part of the question, I am not prepared to recommend at this very late hour a reversal of the decision already taken.

Is not assistance of the kind suggested in the question to British manufacturers the most admirable way of developing markets abroad, and would the hon. Gentleman consider, perhaps in more favourable circumstances next year, a reversal of this policy?

We are always prepared to consider how we can help British industry.

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is in a position to state the nature of the manufactured goods from various countries exhibited at the Johannesburg Agricultural Show last year; and whether, as such exhibits were only to the extent of less than 10 per cent. composed of agricultural implements and machinery, the remainder com- prising manufactured articles of all descriptions, and in view of the importance of this show as a means of promoting the sale of British goods in the South African Union, he will consider the advisability of giving some measure of financial support to a joint exhibit to be organised of British manufactures?

According to my information the exhibits in the Overseas Industries Section of the Johannesburg Agricultural Show consisted principally of consumers' goods, the few exceptions being goods of agricultural interest, such as fertilisers, dips, insecticides, etc. My information is that the Agricultural Machinery Section was by far the largest and most important of the Industrial exhibits at the Show. With regard to the last part of the question, I fear that it will not be possible to give financial support for the organisation of a British exhibit. My Department will be pleased, however, to render any assistance in its power to anybody organising such an exhibit.

Does not my hon. Friend think that it is a very deplorable state of affairs that foreign Governments give assistance to their manufacturers in order to enable them to exhibit at this show in South Africa while the British Government do nothing at all?

Well, Sir, we do give and will continue to give all the assistance in our power, but as my hon. Friend knows, it must be limited by financial considerations.

In point of fact, at last year's exhibition at Johannesburg the German Government, for example, gave substantial assistance to their own manufacturers having exhibits there.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether it is proposed to postpone the Imperial Conference which, in the ordinary course would be held in 1929, to the following year?

I fear that I am not in a position at present to answer my hon. Friend's inquiry. The date of the next meeting of the Imperial Conference has not yet been settled.

When will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to answer?

I really could not say.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he will state the reason for the filling of an acting post of higher grade technical assistant in the engineering division in the Office of Works by a non-service War entrant; whether there are ex-service candidates serving in that division with the requisite qualifications for this post; if so, why one of such candidates has not been selected to fill the post under the recommendations contained in paragraph 45 of the Third Lytton Report and the arrangements made in Treasury letter of 27th August to the Association of Ex-Service Civil Servants concerning the mariner in which technical vacancies are to be filled under that paragraph of the Lytton Report; whether a vacancy at present exists for an established higher grade technical assistant in the engineering division; and, if so, whether a selection for this post will be made from among the existing ex-service officers who are regarded by experience and qualification as in all respects eligible for appointment to such post?

The post in question was filled in the ordinary course of promotion by the selection of the most competent of all the officers serving in the lower grade. Paragraph 45 of the Third Lytton Report, and the letter mentioned, regulate the procedure to be followed in dealing with vacancies which in the normal course would be filled by outside candidates, and cannot be held to apply to vacancies which are normally filled by promotion: the existing vacancy will filled in accordance with the usual Promotion Board machinery.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he is aware that a number of men employed by his Department in Glasgow were dismissed last summer; that many of these men have long years of service; and will he take steps to have them reinstated?

I am not aware of the dismissal of any men employed by the Department in Glasgow last summer, hut if the hon. Member will forward particulars I will cause inquiries to be made.

asked the Under Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, if he will consider altering or improving the present accommodation for both the staff and inquiries in the offices of the Scottish Board of Health, seeing that the number of persons inquiring is not tending to decrease?

If the hon. Member will let me have information as to the particular office or offices in question, I shall have the necessary inquiry made.

asked the Minister of Health whether the expression, the expenditure in respect of the standard year which would have fallen to be borne by rates, used in paragraph 1 (a) of Part I of the Fourth Schedule of the Local Government Bill means the net expenditure, after allowing for Exchequer grants and receiptsin-aid, actually incurred in respect of the standard year and charged on rates; and whether such expenditure will include deficiencies on trading undertakings met out of rates?

It is the intention that the expenditure of which account will be taken shall include net expenditure of all kinds in respect of the standard year properly falling to be borne by rates, irrespective of whether the actual rates levied were more, or less, than sufficient for the purpose. Account will be taken of deficiencies on trading undertakings properly met out of rates.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether there has been a reduction in the prices for iron and steel through the freight relief on public railways which commenced on 1st December, 1928, and the average amount of such reduction?

I understand that there has been no substantial change in iron and steel prices since the 1st December. The materials which were used in the manufacture of the iron and steel now being sold were no doubt brought to the iron and steel works some weeks or months ago.

Are we to understand that while the policy of the Government was to give this particular relief in order that iron and steel might be cheapened, a lower price is not being charged for iron and steel?

There was no relief upon freight on the raw materials that were used for the manufacture of iron and steel which is now being sold.

Has there not been coal carried to iron and steel works since the 4th December? Has that tended to decrease the price of iron and steel?

It. will do. The iron and steel which is now being sold was manufactured from raw materials which were in stock before the freight relief came into existence.

asked the Secretary for Mines the average amount of the reduction of selling prices for export coal through the freight relief on public railways which commenced on 1st December, 1928?

There are many factors which affect the price at which coal is sold, and it is difficult to assess the value of any one factor at a particular time. It has been estimated that the average relief under the freight rebates scheme amounts to approximately 7d. a ton on export and foreign bunker coal; but whether the relief is used to reduce price, or to help bridge the present gap between costs of production and proceeds, is a matter for the industry itself to determine.

How are you ever going to know that the reduced freights were of any value?

I should think nobody has any doubt about that.

Are we to assume that there has been no reduction in prices and that this money has gone into the pockets of the coalowners?

No, Sir. The hon. Member must not assume more than I have said in my answer.

asked the Minister of Labour what is the name of the trade union which took action resulting in the discharge of 12 men from Woolworth's works at Commercial Street, Whitchapel; whether he has made any inquiries of the discharged men as to whether they are non-unionists; in how many other instances similar action has been taken against London men in order to find work for men from the mining areas; how many of the 12 discharged men have been found other work; and were they paid unemployment benefit during their period of enforced unemployment?

I am making certain further inquiries and will let the hon. Member know the result.

I would like to give notice that my hon. Friend the Member for Poplar (Mr. March) intends to raise this matter on the Adjournment, and I hope that the information will be forthcoming. It is a very important matter to us.

asked the Minister of Health haw many men passed through the Hollesley Bay Labour Colony during each of the years since its inception down to 2nd August, 1914; how many of these are known to have migrated; how many returned to work in the Metropolis; and how many found work in agricultural districts in this country?

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the tribunal will be appointed to inquire into the Rye lifeboat disaster; and if he can state the composition of the tribunal?

The inquiry into the casualty to the Rye lifeboat is to be held in the Town Hall, Rye, on the 19th December. The Court will be presided over by his Honour Judge Cann as Wreck Commissioner. Vice - Admiral E. L. Booty, C.B., M.V.O., Captain J. Garriock, and Mr. E. F. Spanner have been appointed by the Home Office to act as assessors.

asked the Prime Minister if his attention has been drawn to a speech delivered in Moscow on the 11th December by Mr. Litvinov dealing with the foreign policy of the Soviet Government, in which acceptance of the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries was stated as the base of existing trading and diplomatic relations between Russia and other countries; and whether His Majesty's Government would he prepared to consider a resumption of diplomatic and trade relations with the Soviet Government on the basis of a guarantee that the establishment of such relations would carry with it the strict- est observance of the principle of noninterference in the internal affairs of this country?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has considered the statement made by Mr. Litvinov on Tuesday last regarding economic relations between this country and Russia; and whether His Majesty's Government is now prepared to make such a statement in reply as will lead to improved trade relations between the two countries?

I have been asked to reply to these questions. I would refer the hon. Members to the Prime Minister's speech at the Guildhall on the 9th November, 1927, wherein were set forth the conditions on which His Majesty's Government are prepared to resume relations with Russia. His Majesty's Government do not consider that Monsieur Litvinoff's speech in any way alters the situation.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman first of all, if it is usual to answer a, question by referring to a speech made on s. private occasion in the City of London and not in this House, and secondly, whether, seeing that. we took the initiative in rupturing relations, it is not on our initiative that a start should be made to mend them?

I have frequently heard answers to questions given in a similar form to that which I gave to-day, but I have myself already repeated in the House the exact words used by the Prime Minister on that occasion, and I could have referred the hon. and gallant Gentleman to my answer quoting those words had it been necessary. As regards the other points, His Majesty's Government have stated the conditions on which we shall be ready to resume negotiations, but those conditions have not yet been fulfilled.

Could the right hon. Gentleman say whether the recognition of Russia's liability for debts and compensation on the basis of the last article of the Trade Agreement of 1921 would be an acceptable basis for the beginning of negotiations providing a cate- gorical undertaking was given with regard to propaganda?

Sir, I think the first and most essential thing is that we should not merely have a categorical undertaking such as we had before about propaganda but proof that that undertaking is being kept.

Could the right hon. Gentleman state what proof would be satisfactory to His Majesty's Government?

The complete cessation of the activities of which we have reason to complain.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how the good faith of an undertaking can be put to the test until the relations are resumed?

Yes, when the activities of which we complain cease, and then we can consider the resumption of relations.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that in Whiteinch Ward, Glasgow, five clubs have been registered since the adoption by the electors of that ward of the no-licence resolution under the Temperance (Scotland) Act, 1913; that these clubs are located in premises which, before the adoption of the no-licence resolution, were occupied as public houses; and, in view of the expressed wishes of the electors and the intention of the Legislature in providing means for the control by the electors in local areas of the sale, by retail, of intoxicating liquors therein, whether he proposes to take steps to prohibit the registration of clubs in areas which have adopted the no-licence resolution and to extend the grounds of objection to the initial, grant of certificates of registration of clubs in Scotland?

I am aware of the position in the ward referred to. I can hold out no prospect of legislation in the immediate future for the purposes mentioned.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is able to state the number of British subjects at present serving in the French Foreign Legion: and if there are any other countries whose army contains Similar unit?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. I believe that one other country has a Foreign Legion.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether replies have been received from the Governments of Bolivia and Paraguay in answer to the resolution of the Council of the League of Nations of the 11th of December communicated to them, in which the two States between whom the dispute is threatened were warned that they had solemnly pledged themselves to seek the solution of disputes by pacific means; if so, what is the nature of these replies; and whether any further action is contemplated by the Council of the League?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and the Council has addressed a further communication to each of the Governments. As the reading of this correspondence would occupy much time, I will, with the hon. and gallant Member's permission, cause it to be printed in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Can I have an answer to the last part of the question?

I think the material which I shall have printed will give the answer. The President of the Council undertook to watch the progress of events, with the assistance of the Secretary-General, and, if necessary, to summon a Council meeting.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the League of Nations has any jurisdiction whatever in any part of America, in view of the provisions of the Monroe doctrine?

Yes, Sir. There are many Clauses in the League Covenant which enjoin upon the Council the duty of offering its friendly offices, and none which dispenses them from that duty, and I do not think the action of the Council can be thought in any quarter to raise or challenge for a moment the question of the Monroe doctrine.

In view of the fact that the United States is not a party to the Covenant of the League of Nations, if anything transpires in any part of America, is it not open to the United States to say that they have a right to object to any proceedings, and to veto them if necessary?

I do not think that the hon. Member's question can be taken as a fair interpretation of American policy or of the Monroe doctrine. I deprecate the putting of these questions, and I am certain that nothing that the League will do is likely to give offence in the United States.

In view of these answers, may we take it that His Majesty's Government, as one of the State members of the League, is taking this dispute seriously, although it is in a remote part of the world like the centre of South America, and using its utmost endeavours to exercise its offices for peace?

His Majesty's Government were parties to the different decisions taken by the Council of the League.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is now in a position to make an announcement regarding an agreement between this country and China as a result of the recent negotiations?

The negotiations are still proceeding, and I am not yet in a position to make any announcement.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that an application for release from the Army on compassionate grounds was made in July, 1928, for Private D. Martin, No. 1,041, Machine Gun Group, 1st Battalion Black Watch, Gangoru Camp, Dehra Dim, Northern Province, India; that all regulations have been complied with; and whether he can state what action he is taking in the matter?

I assume that the application to which the hen. Member refers has been made direct to the authorities in India since no such request has, so far as I can ascertain, been received by the military authorities at home. The decision on applications of this kind rests with the Brigade Commander and I have no information what the decision has been in this case.