asked the Secretary of State for India when he expects to receive the Report of the Statutory Commission?

I cannot give an exact date, and I am sure the House will appreciate my anxiety to avoid any appearance of putting pressure upon the Commission in the execution of their most important and difficult task. But I do not anticipate the Report before the end of the year.

Is it intended that the Commission shall revisit India before presenting their Report?

I have not heard of that suggestion.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he has received a Report of the murders of Lieutenant M. Stephen, of the 17th Nowshera Mountain Battery of the Royal Artillery, stationed at Manzai, and First-class Assistant Surgeon J. E. H. Cabral, who were shot dead near Bibizai, on the Waziristan circular road, while motoring to Razmak; can he state whether the assailants of these officers have been captured; and will he give the House full particulars?

The reports which I have received indicate that the assailant was a Mahsud Khassadar who felt himself aggrieved regarding promotion. Two relatives, suspected of having been accessories, have been arrested. The man himself and two other suspected accomplices are reported to have taken refuge in certain Wazir villages, and their surrender has not yet been reported.

Are they still trying to capture the assailants?

That is implied in the answer I have given.

asked the Secretary of State for India the number of persons at present detained by the Government in India without trial, under Regulation 111 of 1818 and the Bengal Ordinance; and the names of these persons and the circumstances of their arrest?

asked the Secretary of State for India how many persons are still in detention or have had their movements restricted under the Bengal Ordinance?

asked the Secretary of State for India if he will consider recommending to the Government of India that it should dispense with the use of the Bengal Criminal Ordinance Act and Regulation 111 of 1818, under which laws imprisonment without trial takes place?

There is at present no person under detention, or restricted as to his movements, under the Bengal Criminal Law Amendment Act, 1925. Under Regulation 111 of 1818, there are 31 persons detained or under restriction. These are, first, 12 Kachins who have been detained since November, 1927, for complicity in the attack in March, 1927, en the " Triangle expedition " for the release of slaves in unadministered territory on the boarders of Burma, in the course of which attack a British and an Indian officer and a Kachin policeman lost their lives; secondly, 25 Afghan refugees, who, without being in actual confinement, are detained in the interests of the peace of the Indian border and of Afghanistan; and, thirdly, four persons from Indian States, namely the ex-Maharajah of Panna, who is no longer under restraint but is ordinarily restricted in his movements to the Madras Presidency, the ex-Maharajah of Nabha, who has been restricted as to his movements since February, 1928, the ex-Maharajah of Bharatpur (detained since 1903 for the murder of one of his servants) and a Manipuri who was implicated in the Kuki rebellion, and has been detained since 1918. It will be seen that in the majority of these cases action could not have been taken under the ordinary Indian Criminal Law. In answer to my hon. Friend, the Member for Shoreditch (Mr. Thurtle) I can only say that I am not able in the meantime to suggest alternative or better methods of enabling the Governments in India to meet cases of the character for which these special measures were designed.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is very strong feeling in the House that we ought to go back to the old Radical tradition of no imprisonment without trial?

I am aware of that, and I share it, but I must call the hon. Member's attention to the fact that in all these cases the requirements of justice can only be met—Indian law running only in certain territory—in the manner in which it has been met by the use of this regulation.

Can the right hon. Gentleman specify how long he intends to keep these people in prison without trial?

If the hon. Member will consider the instances I have named, I think he will see that there is excellent reason for the action taken. I have gone into every single one of these cases with the greatest care and detail. As to the period of detention, I think probably in the case of the Afghans there will be a limit set.

Will the right hon. Gentleman explain the difference between being detained by the police and actual confinement?

It really refers to the limits within which the person has freedom of movement.

asked the Secretary of State for India what action the Government of India proposes to take in the case of the three Sikhs at present held in detention under Regulation 111 of 1818, in view of the statement made in the House on 15th April last that these men would be released as soon as it could be done without danger to public safety?

Two of the Sikhs in question were released early in May, and the third on 4th June.

asked the Secretary of State for India, if his attention has been drawn to the statement of one of the employers' representatives nominated by the Government of India to the recent International Labour Conference at Geneva that, unless labour legislation similar to that enacted in British India is introduced in the Indian States the Indian employers could not consider any further labour legislation being introduced in British India; and if, in view of this statement, the programme of the Royal Commission on Labour in India will be drawn so as to include an investigation of the conditions of labour in the Indian states?

I have seen the statement referred to. The terms of reference to the Royal Commission have been published and cover British India only. It would not be possible, having regard to the constitutional position, to extend these terms of reference so as to include the Indian States as labour legislation in the States is a matter of internal administration and is not controlled by the Paramount Power. As explained in a reply given to-day to a non-oral question asked by my hon. and gallant Friend, the Government of India while unable to undertake any obligation to make effective in the Indian States the provisions of a draft Convention adopted at an International Labour Conference ratified on behalf of British India will bring such a Convention to the notice of those States to which its provisions appear to be relevant and will also be prepared, where necessary, to use their good offices with the authorities of such States to induce them to apply, so far as possible, the provisions of the Convention within their territories.

Are we to understand that the terms of reference, considering the stage to which the Royal Commission has gone, will not be extended?

I am informed that there are constitutional difficulties which prevent the terms of reference of the Whitley Commission, to which the hon. Member refers, being extended to the Indian States.

The right hon. Gentleman has referred to the good offices which the Government are prepared to take. Will he be very careful in any action taken by the Government to see that he in no way infringes the treaty rights of the Indian Princes?

Yes, certainly, the Government will bear that in mind, and they will also bear in mind the question of extending as far as possible the beneficent operations of this convention.

asked the Secretary of State for India why the Report of the Committee on the Organisation of Medical Research in India has not been published; whether he is aware that the All-India Medical Congress has urged its publication; whether any protests have been received against the proposed location of the Central Medical Research Institute at Dehra Dun; and if the Legislative Assembly will be consulted before any decision is taken?

I am informed that this Report was published about five weeks ago. Some protests were made against the location of the Central Medical Institute at Dehra Dun; but the expenses for the scheme as proposed were approved on January 29th by the Standing Finance Committee of the Legislative Assembly.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that postal employés in India receive a pension of only six rupees a month after 30 years' service, and that they cannot get any privilege leave unless they find substitutes for themselves before obtaining leave; and if, taking into consideration the arduous duties of the postal employé in India, the Government will consider the possibility of improving these conditions?

It is not the practice of the Secretary of State for India to intervene in such matters, which are regulated by the Government of India. I will, however, forward a copy of this question and of my reply for the information of that Government.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether, pending the discussion of the larger issues, he is considering whether any steps can be taken to carry out certain of the recommendations of the Butler Committee for the future recruitment for and conditions of service in the political department of the Government of India?

At the present stage, and pending further consideration of the Report as a whole in consultation with the Government of India, I am unable to make any statement as to the order or manner in which particular recommendations will be dealt with.

As this is a very large administrative matter, is the right hon. Gentleman considering taking the action recommended, or similar action later, as soon as the communication has been received from the Government?

Yes. I would remind my hon. and gallant Friend that the whole of the committee's report is being carefully considered including the part to which my hon. and gallant Friend draws attention.

HALL asked the Secretary of State for India whether he will arrange for a White Paper to be circulated to the House giving any information in the possession of the India Office as to the assistance given by the Soviet Government to the extremist movement in India?

No, Sir. I think no public advantage could come of it.

Is there not a proposal from the Indian Government to renew diplomatic relations with Russia? If that is to be done, does not the right hon. Gentleman think it advisable that the whole of the information should be placed before the House?

I have no doubt that if my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary thinks so, he will inform the House.

What objection can there be to this House having the whole of the information?

The hon. and gallant Member must leave it in the hands of the Department to decide how and when it is desirable to publish any information.

Is the attitude of the Socialist Government to be to withhold information which is necessary and relevant to certain matters?

That seems to cover rather a wider field than the Question on the Order Paper. When I said "the Department," of course, I meant myself— L'Etat c'est moi.

Are you afraid of publication?

No, Sir. The Government is sans peur et sans reproche .

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us any information as to the particular assistance given to some of these extremists?

I think my answer covers that point.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can now make a statement with regard to the case of Mr. A. J. Brewer; and whether a reply has been received from the Portuguese Government to the representations made by His Majesty's Consul at Lisbon?

To my regret I am as yet unable to make a statement on this case. Further representations were made to the Portuguese Government as recently as 20th June, and I am awaiting their reply.

Can the right hon. Gentleman inform me when he will be ready to answer a question on this matter?

I am afraid it is impossible for me to say when I am dealing with another Government whose reply I am awaiting.

Will he let me know when he is in a position to answer a question?

Yes, with pleasure.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has had any further communications with the French Government with regard to the Dead Sea concession; and whether the whole question is being referred to the High Court of International Justice at The Hague?

Yes, Sir. In answer to the Note sent to the French Ambassador, as foreshadowed in my predecessor's reply to the hon. and gallant Member on 13th March last, a communication was recently received from his Excellency inquiring on behalf of his Government whether His Majesty's Government would be prepared to submit he question at issue to the Permanent Court of International Justice. The reply to be made to this communication is now under consideration by His Majesty's Government, and, pending the completion of the correspondence, I am unable to make any further statement on the subject.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is a fact that M. Novomesky has been served with an injunction which prevents him working this concession until the matter has been decided by the International Court of Justice?

That information has not yet reached me.

Is it not the fact that if the ratification of this concession had not been held up the work would have been in progress a long time ago, to everyone's satisfaction?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether representations have been made to the United States Government that tariff increases must add to the difficulties of paying the British debt to America?

I have been asked to reply. The answer is in the negative.

Will the hon. Member supplement a question which I put the other day, that unless America receives our goods we cannot pay our debts?

I cannot add anything to the reply, but His Majesty's Government in America are watching the position very carefully.

But even if His Majesty's Government in America are watching the position in America, do they expect any alteration in the intentions of the United States in the matter?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the proposed increase in the United States tariff; and what will be the effect on our exports to the United States?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. It is impossible to gauge the effect of the Tariff Bill on our export trade, especially as it is not yet known in what shape it will finally become law.

Will it not be very detrimental to trade; and could not the hon. Gentleman take some steps, in combination with other European countries, to furnish a united protest against this new tariff?

I do not think I can say anything further on this matter. The whole situation is being carefully watched.

Will the hon. Gentleman inquire in the City of Norwich, as to what the effect of this tariff will be upon the shoe industry in Norwich?

Is it a question of " Watch and pay"?

In reference to these questions, may I ask if hon. Gentlemen opposite are not in favour of tariffs?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what course is now intended to be pursued by the League of Nations with respect to the question of the hours of employment of coal miners; and what action His Majesty's Government are taking in the matter?

I have been asked to reply. The Mines Committee of the Governing Body of the International Labour Office have already presented one report dealing with the hours of miners, and are continuing their work. In addition to this, the Economic Committee of the League are considering the economic position in the coal (mining industry throughout Europe. The Government are in close touch with this matter and I may point out that the British representative is chairman of the Mines Committee referred to.

Is it possible to get the question of hours isolated and expedited?

I can add nothing to the reply I have given which deals with the whole question. This Committee will deal particularly with the question of hours.

Who is the British representative, and chairman of this Committee?

Mr. Humbert Wolfe.

Who is he?

May I ask whether the hon. Member will give us some time before a decision is made on this rather vital matter?

I am afraid I cannot add anything to the reply I have given.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his Majesty's Government have under consideration the immediate ratification of the Arms Traffic Convention for the control of the traffic in arms, which was signed by His Majesty's representative at Geneva on 17th June, 1925?

This is among the questions which His Majesty's Government have under consideration.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it will be considered at an early date and some decision taken on the matter?

Yes. I propose to communicate with other Governments which have not yet signed the Convention, in the hope that we may be able to make progress in the matter.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the methods adopted for the selection of suitable officers as trade commissioners 'and commercial secretaries in the Dominions and Colonies and in foreign countries; and if the recognised trade organisations are being consulted?

I have been asked to reply. Commercial diplomatic officers and trade commissioners were originally appointed by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and the President of the Board of Trade respectively, on the recommendation of special committees consisting of representatives of Government Departments and recognised trade organisations. Vacancies which have since occurred have been filled from within those services or from the Consular Service, or from the headquarters staff of the Department of Overseas Trade. Where vacancies cannot thus be filled, the method is to advertise them in the Press and to refer any applications for consideration to a small committee composed as stated above.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the number of commercial secretaries and trade commissioners His Majesty's Government propose to appoint in accordance with the policy announced by the Lord Privy Seal; the Embassies and Legations to which those officers are to be attached; and if any special instructions are being issued in relation to their duties?

I have been asked to reply. It is proposed to appoint immediately two trade commissioners, one of whom will re-open the post at Singapore, which was closed in 1922, while the other will be attached to assist the senior trade commissioner at Sydney, who will thus be able to travel more freely in his area. These officers will be furnished with the general instructions issued to all trade commissioners. The question of the appointment of new commercial secretaries will be examined as a whole when His Majesty's Government have had an opportunity of considering the Report of the Economic Mission, under Lord d'Abernon's chairmanship, which is proceeding to South America on 2nd August.

Will the hon. Member take into account the desirability of consulting British associations, chambers of commerce, and similar organisations before making these appointments?

Consultations will be held where necessary.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give the House any information concerning the inquiry which is to be undertaken into the cotton industry?

My right hon. Friend is not yet in a position to make a statement on this matter, but hopes to be able to do so at an early date.

When this matter is being considered, will it be borne in mind that it is highly desirable that the terms of reference should be such that there will be a report within a limited and reasonable period?

I think that consideration will be borne in mind. There is, I think, a desire to have a report as early as possible.

Before he definitely decides on an inquiry, will the hon. Gentleman seek the opinion of the Manchester cotton trade, and ascertain whether they do not entertain the strongest objection to any sort of inquiry or Government interference?

asked the Minister of Labour the number of insured persons at work in the lace industry at the end of May, 1929, and at the end of June, 1925, respectively; and whether there has been a satisfactory increase in the number working full time?

The estimated numbers of insured persons aged 16 to 64, classified as belonging to the lace industry in Great Britain, less the numbers unemployed were 15,200 at the end of June, 1925, and 15,713 at the end of May, 1929. These figures include persons not at work owing to sickness, etc. Separate figures showing the numbers working full time are not available.

asked the Minister of Labour if she can furnish an estimate of the number of persons employed in the tyre factories recently established by foreign firms in this country?

Precise figures on this point are not available, but I understand that approximately 5,000 workpeople are at present employed at the tyre factories to which I understand the hon. and gallant Member refers.

asked the Prime Minister whether in view of the fact that the linen or flax industry is in a more depressed condition than the cotton industry, he will include this trade in the inquiry indicated in the King's Speech?

I have been asked to reply. It is the Government's intention that the inquiry into the cotton industry shall be as expeditious as possible. In these circumstances, it would not be possible to extend its scope to other industries.

Does the hon. Gentleman not know how very serious is the position of the linen trade, especially in Scotland, and as this industry is so closely associated with the cotton industry, cannot he include it in the inquiry which is contemplated?

I cannot add to the answer I have given.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether in connection with his proposal for increasing cotton growing, he will take into consideration the fact that the absence of stabilised prices is already tending to discourage the natives from continuing cotton planting and, further, that there is a quantity of Empire cotton in this country still unsold?

I am not aware that unsold stocks of Empire cotton are unduly large having regard to stocks of cotton generally, or that Empire cotton growers are being discouraged. I am satisfied that a further increase in the production of cotton in the Empire is desirable, and all relevant facts will be taken into consideration in connection with any proposals for increasing production.

Will the Bill which is in contemplation to deal with the Colonial Development Grant include the proposals to which the right hon. Gentleman referred in his speech for aeroplane surveys of certain districts, and should we have an opportunity of discussing this cotton question in connection with that Bill?

There will be an opportunity to 'discuss all questions appertaining to Colonial development in connection with this Bill. I may say that the Bill is drawn in the widest possible form to give that opportunity.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will consider the desirability of introducing legislation for wheat to be imported only as wheat and of recommending the imposition of an export duty on all wheat offals exported?

After considering the available information and the various factors affecting the position, I am satisfied that it is undesirable to take action on the lines suggested by the hon. Member. In any case the prohibition of imports and exports is contrary to the policy of the Government and to the International Convention for the Abolition of Prohibitions and Restrictions on Imports and Exports, which has been adhered to by this country.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that imports of flour represent only 15 per cent, of the imported wheat? In view of the importance to the farming community of abundant supplies of wheat offal, can he not see his way to reconsider the matter?

I am aware that the supplies of offal are much larger than before the War. The increase is from 1,600,000 tons to 2,000,000 tons.

Does the right hon. Gentleman say that the prohibition of imports is contrary to the policy of His Majesty's Government in all cases?

It is clearly contrary to the principle to which the Government adhere.

May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is speaking for the Cabinet in declaring that the policy adopted by the party opposite has been abandoned?

The answer is obvious.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs how many of the eight new Imperial bureaux, dealing with the collection and dissemination of scientific information affecting agriculture, have now been established; and what are the names and addresses of the directors of those bureaux constituted to date?

Six of the eight bureaux have now been established; it is hoped that the other two will be set up in the course of the summer. I will, with the permission of the House, circulate with the OFFICIAL REPORT a list of the six bureaux already in operation, with their addresses, and the names of the directors and deputy directors.

Following is the list:

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has yet received the Report of the Committee appointed to consider the existing facilities for training veterinarians in London; whether this Report will be published as a Parliamentary Paper; and, if so, when?

No, Sir; but I understand that the Committee has reached the stage of, considering a draft Report. When the Report is received it will be printed and published, and copies will be available for the use of Members.

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question; when it is likely to be published?

I cannot say exactly, but I understand at an early date.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will give the latest available figures to indicate the use that is being made of the farm credits scheme for both long and short term loans?

The following loans have been granted by the directors of the Corporation, subject to the examination of title and satisfactory completion of the formalities: — been registered at the Land Registry up to the 6th July, 1929.

Can the right hon. Gentleman state what he and his colleagues have in view, seeing that references were made in the Election to an extension of the farm credit scheme?

That might be the subject of another question.

Can the right hon. Gentleman state how many applications have been made under the two sections?

I can give the applications under Part I. Up to the close of business on July 6th for loans on mortgage there were 1,362 applications for a total of £4,965,000. Applications for improvement loans numbered 59, for a total of £53,000.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he has received any representations from deep-sea fishermen or others protesting against Admiralty royalty charges on fishermen's charts; and, if so, what action he proposes to take?

A pamphlet and poster on this subject have reached me without any covering letter or any evidence of the source from which they came. I have, however, received no representations on the subject from deep sea or other fishermen, and the second part of the question does not, therefore, arise.

May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman will consult his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland on this matter?

Certainly.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he can explain more fully the reasons which have led the Government to abandon the project of purchasing British meat for the Forces for a portion of the year?

As I said in my answer on Thursday last, the Government rejected this proposal on the grounds of its probable effect on prices to the public. Moreover it was considered that any benefits which might accrue to agriculture would not be commensurate with the expense involved—an opinion which was consistently held by the late Government up to the eve of the election.

I beg to give notice that, in view of the difficulty of dealing with this matter by question and answer, I shall seek permission to raise it on the Adjournment for the Summer Recess.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he can state the total acreage under the control of the Com missioners of Crown Lands and the total yearly revenue received there from; and what proportions of these totals cover lands within the authority of the Ports mouth City Council?

Exclusive of copyholds held of the Crown and foreshores, in respect of which no figures are available, the total surface area under the control of the Commissioners of Crown Lands extends to about 226,000 acres. The total gross collection during the year to 31st March, 1929, in respect of all properties under the control of the Commissioners was £1,678,342. The greater part of the property under the control of the Commissioners within the authority of the Portsmouth City Council is foreshore, other land being only about 1½ acres, and the total gross collection for the year ended 31st March, 1929, in respect of all the property was £300 10s. 3d.

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the annual report of these Commissioners is made available for the use of Members of the House?

Certainly.

asked the First Com missioner of Works whether any regulations exist for the exit of visitors to the House of Commons occupying the Members' Gallery in case of fire; whether he is aware that, in the case of such emergency, there is only one narrow exit; and will he consider the provision of additional exits?

The Serjeant-at-Arms is satisfied that, although only one exit at present exists, the staff of attendants on duty during the sittings of the House is fully adequate to deal with the exit of visitors from the Members' Gallery in an emergency. As an additional measure of precaution, however, the possibility of forming further exits is being considered.

Is there any hope of a fire taking place?

I hope the hon. Member will not be present if a fire does take place.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether it is in tended to replace the Shaftesbury Memorial on its original site in Piccadilly Circus; and, if so, will the flower girls be granted permission to sell their wares 'as heretofore?

I must refer the hon. Member to the London County Council for information on this subject. My Department is not in charge of the memorial.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether, in the case of official dinners offered to dis- tinguished visitors at the expense of the taxpayers, efforts are made to ensure so far as possible the provision of British or Empire food; and, if not, whether he proposes to make 'arrangements accordingly in future?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and the second part does not, therefore, arise.

What is the cost per head to the taxpayers for these dinners?

I could not say without notice.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Governor of Northern Rhodesia has been asked to submit proposals for the removal of the capital of that territory from Livingstone; whether, in view of the new mining developments in the copper field in that country, any special arrangements are contemplated in regard to the recruitment, supervision, health, and education of natives employed in connection with the copper mines; and whether these matters will be under the direct control of the Government or left to the mining companies?

My hon. Friend is at Geneva attending the Permanent Mandates Committee, and I have been asked to answer this question. The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Education is controlled directly by the Government; recruitment, housing and health are controlled by the Mining Companies under Government regulation and inspection. The Government already has ample powers in connection with these matters, but the Secretary of State is not satisfied with the information which he has received with regard to the health of the miners and he has called on the Governor for further report and recommendations. Special arrangements for education of the natives at these mining centres are under the consideration of the Advisory Committee on Education in the Colonies. I may add that a revised Mining Law is in course of preparation.

Will the Under-Secretary give the information to this House when he receives the report?

I will convey that request to my hon. Friend.

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the desirability, in this matter of education in mining centres, of approaching the heads of mining firms in this country and not merely leaving it to the local managers out there?

I will convey that suggestion also to my hon. Friend.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what action is being taken to give effect to the recommendations of Lord Lovat's Committee on the development of veterinary services in the Colonial Empire, and, in particular, whether the scholarship scheme for recruiting and training veterinary officers for Colonial Governments is being proceeded with; and whether at will come into operation this year?

I have been asked to answer this question. A despatch was addressed to Colonial Governments in April last dealing with the recommendations of this Committee and asking for their observations upon them. Replies to this despatch are now being received. In view of the present lack of qualified candidates, the Secretary of State is of opinion that the first step towards the further development of the Colonial Veterinary Services should be the institution of the Scholarship Scheme which the Committee recommended, but he fears that it will not now be possible to bring this scheme into operation this year.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Government proposes to hold a second Colonial Office Conference of official representatives of the Colonies, Protectorates, and Mandated Territories; and, if so, when?

I have been asked to answer this question. The matter will receive consideration in due course.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any interim Report on the work of the Mechanical Transport Committee will shortly be published; and whether it is proposed to summon an early conference to make recommendations as to what contributions shall be made by various Governments in the Empire towards the expenses of this Committee?

I have been asked to answer this question. The first Progress Report of the Committee has just been printed and copies are being sent to the various Dominion and Colonial Governments interested in the Committee's work. It is not proposed to publish this Report but my hon. Friend will be happy to show it to the hon. and gallant Member if he so desires. As regards the second part of the question a meeting of representatives of the Governments interested in the work of the Committee has been arranged to take place during the course of the present month and the question of contributions will be discussed at that meeting.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether any replies have been received from the Dominions in answer to the despatch that was sent to them in January, 1928, enclosing a copy of the regulations of the 22nd December, 1927, made by the Board of Trade under Section 29 of the Cinematograph Films Act, 1927; and can he state which of the Dominions Governments are giving effect to similar conditions and provisions that exist in that Act?

The answer to the first part of my hon. Friend's question is in the negative; the despatch in question which forwarded the documents referred to, did not call for any reply. As regards the second part of the question, legislation on similar lines to the Act of 1927 has been passed in New Zealand and in Victoria. I am not aware that any such legislation has up to the present been passed elsewhere in the Dominions.

Is any of the other Dominions being asked to follow the example of New Zealand in passing the legislation which they promised to do before this Act was passed?

No, it rests entirely within their own discretion.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether there have been any changes in the constitution of the Empire Marketing Board?

Certain changes in the ex-officio members of the Board were rendered necessary by the recent change of Government. Since the full list of the members of the Board, as reconstituted, is somewhat long, I will, with the permission of the House, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT. I may, however, say that my Noble Friend, the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs, and my hon. Friend, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies, have succeeded their predecessors as Chairman and Vice-Chairman respectively. I may perhaps add that the right hon. Member for the Sparkbrook Division of Birmingham, who was the first Chairman of the Board, has been invited, and has agreed, to become a member. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies, as Vice-Chairman of the Board, will, as a general rule, answer questions in the House relating to the Board's work.

Following is the list:

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Government propose to continue the annual grant to the Empire Marketing Board instituted by the late Government; whether any extension or modification of the functions and duties of the board is contemplated; and what changes in the personnel of the board and its main committees are being made?

With regard to the first two parts of this question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer to the hon. Member for East Wolverhampton (Mr. Mander) on 4th July. With regard to the third part, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I have given to the hon. Member for East Bristol (Mr. W. Baker) to-day; the composition of the board's main committees will be settled at the first meeting of the board as reconstituted.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Report and recommendations of the Imperial Forestry Conference, held at Melbourne last year, in regard to the future of the Imperial Forestry Institute at Oxford, have yet been received; and what steps are being taken to give effect to the recommendations?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the question asked on 13th March on this subject. The full report of the Conference has not yet been received, but my Noble Friend the Secretary of State is awaiting a communication on the subject which I understand may shortly be expected from the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Empire Forestry Conference.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether, in connection with the transfer of labour from distressed districts to others less seriously affected, he proposes to make any Regulations with respect to the housing of these men and to their subsequent employment, if again out of work, on preferential terms as compared with local labour; and, if not, what conditions will be imposed on municipalities or local authorities taking advantage of this type of scheme?

I am considering all these matters in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour. It is a condition of a grant involving the transfer of labour that the local authority receiving the grant shall satisfy the grant-making authority that accommodation for the men transferred will be available during the performance of the work. There is no responsibility upon the local authority to find employment or housing for the men transferred at the conclusion of the work, but every assistance in both respects is given by the Employment Exchanges.

asked the Minister of Labour the number of applications for unemployment benefit refused during April, May, and June, 1929, respectively, at the Leith (Quality Street) Employment Exchange, and the principal reasons for such disallowances?

As the reply includes a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate a statement in the OFFICIAL- REPORT.

In view of the importance of these figures nationally, will the hon. Gentleman consider, between now and the issue of his Financial Memorandum, the question of allowing us to have national figures on the same lines as these local figures?

I think that matter does not arise here, and that there should be a separate question upon it.

asked the Minister of Labour whether she proposes to make any alteration to prevent insurance officers refusing to allow unemployment benefit being paid where the Court of Referees have decided in the applicant's favour?

The insurance officer is required to act upon the recommendation of a Court of Referees unless he decides to refer the case to the Umpire. This position is statutory and cannot be altered without legislation.

May I suggest that the point as to whether it should be a separate question or not, is not before us, and is one for Speaker; and might I ask, with all due respect, if the hon. Gentleman will not consider between now and the Debate on the Financial Memorandum the proposal to let us have figures on a national scale. I ask that question and I would like an answer to it. May I ask quite respectfully and with all courtesy if I cannot have an answer to my question?

That will require separate question on the Order Paper.

Following is the statement:

Does the Minister propose to make any alteration to prevent suffering through the non-payment of unemployment benefit?

Any question on a matter of legislation would have to be put on the Paper.

Will the hon. Gentleman not consider at least this, that while a matter is being the subject of inquiry by an insurance officer, or a Court of Referees, or the police, a man ought to get benefit until a definite decision is reached?

As my hon. Friend knows, that is a matter for consideration, and I think, as a matter of fact, he knows that it is not altogether outside of discussion in the future.

Am I to understand from that answer that the Government are considering at least allowing payment until a decision is made?

I have nothing to add to the answer I have given. My hon. Friend ought to put any further question on the Order Paper.

asked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to abolish the means limit inquiry in connection with pre-War pensioners, and to bring these pensioners up to the post-War scale?

The benefits conferred by the Pensions Increase Act, 1920, were increased by the amending Act passed in 1924 by the first Labour Government. It was stated by the Government at the time that they could not contemplate further legislation on the subject, and repeated declarations to the same effect were made by their successors. The hon. Member will find that the matter was discussed and the attitude of the Government was fully explained in the Debates on the Act of 1924.

Are we to take it that this is an absolutely final refusal to do anything for the pre-War pensioners?

I am afraid that my answer was sufficiently explicit upon that point. The improvement of pre-War pensions, made by the Labour Government in 1924, was at that time said to be final, and no new circumstances have arisen which would justify a revision of that decision.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of these pre-War pensioners, after a life-time of service for the country, are now in workhouses, and does he consider it satisfactory to leave them there?

I am not aware of that, and, if it be a fact, I should deplore it very much; but these people have met with, I cannot say lavish, but fairly generous consideration, and the hon. Member and the House generally must realise that there are a great many people—large classes of people—in the country who are suffering owing to monetary changes following the War. Might I add, further, that in addition to the increases in the pension made under the Act of 1924, in that same Session I made an Amendment of the Old Age Pensions Act which gave additional pensions under that Act to a fairly large number of these people?

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he has taken the trouble to read the election addresses of many of his supporters?

I am afraid I was, like most Members, far too busily engaged to read the election addresses of other candidates.

Has the right hon. Gentleman had the good fortune to see the answers which many of his colleagues made to questionnaires?

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to appoint a Royal Commission on the Civil Service, as announced by the late Prime Minister; and, if so, whether the question of the employment of ex-service men in the Civil Service will be embodied in the terms of reference of the Commission?

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer which I gave on Thursday last in reply to a question by the hon. and gallant Member for East Lewisham (Sir A. Pownall).

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the setting up of a Commission to inquire into the effects of safeguarding upon the industries to which it has already been applied; whether the Government are pre- pared to consider the maintenance and extension of safeguarding in conjunction with 'a judiciously applied Excess Profits Duty which would secure to the Revenue a reasonable share of any extra profit which might accrue to industries as a result of the application of safeguarding; and whether he is prepared to consider the introduction of legislation to prevent the dumping on the British market of goods produced under sweated conditions of labour in Foreign countries?

:I have been asked to reply. The answer to the first two parts of the question is in the negative. As regards the third part, it is the intention of the Government, in the first instance, to approach the question of the importation of sweated goods by way of international discussion and, it is hoped, agreement.

asked the Prime Minister whether the British troops will leave the Rhineland before the end of September?

asked the Secretary of State for War when the evacuation of the British troops from the Rhineland will take place?

As I indicated in my speech on Friday last, His Majesty's Government are anxious that the evacuation should take place at the earliest moment, but His Majesty's Government would regret if it has to be taken as it were by degrees or stages. Their aim will be to co-operate with the French and the Belgian Governments in effecting a complete and simultaneous evacuation. It will be one of the tasks of the International Conference, which is to meet in the near future, to determine the exact date on which such a complete evacuation of the Rhineland can be simultaneously carried out by the three occupying Powers.

Are we under any sort of pledge or obligation to the French Government in regard to this matter, and is my right hon. Friend aware that the French inspired Press are using our reluctance to act without France as a weapon to enforce such modifications of the Young scheme as may suit the French Exchequer?