asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what was the value of the property belonging to British subjects in Belgium which was requisitioned or sequestrated by the German Government in August and September, 1914; and what payments, if any, have been made to the owners for the property so requisitioned or sequestrated?

I cannot yet state the value of the property referred to. The damage suffered by British property in Belgium, owing to the action of the German Government, is at present being assessed on the spot, and the claims will, after assessment, be submitted to the Royal Commission on Compensation for Suffering and Damage by Enemy Action. No compensation has up to the present been paid.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if the Reparation Commission at present controls the entire assets of Bulgaria?

Under Article 132 of the Treaty of Neuilly, a first charge is imposed on all the assets and revenues of Bulgaria in respect of the cost of reparation and other costs arising under the Treaty, subject to the rights created and securities assigned in. connection with pro-War Bulgarian Government loans (which are maintained in force without any modification), and subject also to such exceptions as the Inter-Allied Commission at Sofia may unanimously approve. The Inter-Allied Commission is empowered to assume actual control and management of Bulgarian revenues only in case of default by Bulgaria, and does not at present exercise such control.

asked the Prime Minister, in view of the exaggerated ideas as to the armaments now at the disposal of Germany, whether he can give the latest figures of the Commission of Control as to the airplanes, guns, machine-guns, and rifles destroyed; and how these compare with the full expectations of the Commission?

I have been asked to answer this question. The latest report from the Inter-Allied Military Commission of Control shows that

33,484 guns and barrels of all kinds have been surrendered, and 33,410 have been destroyed up to date: in addition, 6,051 guns under construction were destroyed by the Germans prior to control; the records have been checked by the Commission: 87,377 machine-guns have been surrendered and 87,351 have been destroyed up to date; 4,382,839 rifles and carbine; have been surrendered and 4,369,330 have been destroyed up to date.

The Commission consider that all important stocks or surplus war material in Germany have been surrendered for destruction, and that only a negligible number of guns, machine-guns and rifles may still be hidden by extremist parties. The Inter-Allied Military Commission of Control have accomplished far more than the members of the Commission themselves considered possible at the outset of their work.

The aeronautical disarmament of Germany was recognised as complete by the Allies on the 5th February last. On that date, 14,731 aeroplanes had been surrendered and 14,260 destroyed. The Aeronautical Commission of Control has since been withdrawn.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present position of the proposal to send representatives of the Great Powers to inquire into the alleged atrocities in Asia Minor; whether the Greeks and the Angora Turks, respectively, have consented or refused; and whether His Majesty's Government arc aware that serious outrages upon the subject races, and much loss of life, is still being reported from the territory under Kemalist control?

The French, Italian, and United States Governments have accepted in principle the proposals of His Majesty's Government, but certain conditions and modifications in the original proposals have been suggested, and are at present under discussion. Pending a decision on these points, no formal notification of the proposal to send these commissions has been made either to the Angora Assembly or to the Greek Government, but it is understood that the Greek Government agree to the despatch of a commission to Greek occupied territory in Asia Minor. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that this long delay is costing human life?

Yes; I am bearing that very carefully in mind, and there has been no delay on the part of His Majesty's Government.

Is it not extremely probable that the last Armenian will have been massacred before these details have been settled by the four Foreign Offices?

I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that I greatly regret that there should be any delay whatever.

Will His Majesty's Government press the other Governments concerned?

Yes; they are doing so.

Whose fault is the delay at present—the French Government's?

I have nothing to add.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any diplomatic or other assistance has been rendered to the firm of Sir Robert McAlpine and Sons, Limited, in obtaining contracts for reconstruction work at the port of Piraeus, near Athens; if so, what was the nature of that assistance: and whether any negotiations are being similarly conducted in regard to contracts in those parts of Turkey now occupied by Greece?

Tenders were invited by the Greek Government in 1918 from three British groups, one of whom was Sir Robert McAlpine and Sons, Limited, for a contract to reconstruct the Piraeus harbour works. Subsequently a fourth British firm was invited to compete. His Majesty's Minister at Athens received instructions to give all British firms of good standing equal support. The assistance given was such as is usual in cases of British firms desiring to obtain contracts from foreign Governments. I have no information in regard to the last part of this question.

Have any of these contracts been responsible for the British policy in supporting the Greek Imperialist aims?

No.

Is it not quite right and proper that British Ministers should support their nationals in obtaining concessions?

Yes; it is a regular part of the business of the Foreign Office.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government intend to continue negotiations with the Turkish Government of Angora; and, if so, what is the delay?

There have been no separate negotiations with the Angora Government, and there can be thus no question of their being continued. The actual nature of the negotiations regarding the Near East are those mentioned in the reply returned to the hon. Member for Yeovil (Mr. A. Herbert) on the 22nd June.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government are intending to despatch British troops to Eastern Persia?

No, Sir. His Majesty's Government have absolutely no intention of despatching any troops to Persia.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether any decision has as yet been arrived at with regard to the future status of the coastguard service?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if any decision has been arrived at with regard to the coastguard force, and can he make any statement to the House with regard to its future?

The future status of the Coastguard Service is still under consideration by the Interdepartmental Committee on Coastguard. It is hoped that a decision may be reached shortly.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he is aware that the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes (a State-supported trading organisation, which is the successor of the Navy and Army Canteen Board) are selling goods of every description at ordinary retail prices, less 8 per cent. rebate, but that the rations of the men, formerly issued free, are now supplied by the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes at a profit; and that the profits of the wet canteens are alleged to be as high as 50 per cent. and those in the dry canteens 75 per cent.; and whether the Lords of the Admiralty have sanctioned a system of trading whereby the profits, made out of the men's rations and their spendings in the canteens, are made to counterbalance the losses, if any, due to trading in the shops of the institutes?

As the answer is somewhat long, I will, with my Noble and gallant Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty when the. narrative and chart of the Battle of Jutland were sent to Lord Jellicoe; and whether his approval of publication will be telegraphed for?

The narrative and charts were despatched on the 2nd June. The Admiralty do not wish to curtail any observations Lord Jellicoe may wish to make by asking for a telegraphic reply. Lord Jellicoe is aware of the interest displayed in this matter and may, I am sure, be relied on to forward his remarks as soon as possible.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if the Admiralty have approved the Burney airship scheme; and, if so, whether any conditions were imposed?

The Burney Airship Scheme has been referred to the Committee of Imperial Defence for consideration, and I do not think that it would be proper for me to make any further statement on the matter at the present time.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty how many naval reservists are there resident in Southern Ireland; and have any, and, if so, what, arrangements been made with the Provisional Government of Southern Ireland to permit the departure of these men to their ships and units on an order for mobilisation or for training?

The number of naval reservists resident in Southern Ireland is 1,261. The arrangements regarding their mobilisation and training are under consideration.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any further information as to the fate of the three officers and a soldier who were kidnapped at Macroom?

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the statement which I made last night in the course of the Debate on the Motion for the Adjournment of the House.

asked the Postmaster-General what arrangements were made to protect the cable communications between this country and Southern Ireland after it was decided to evacuate the country; whether the Irish end of all important cables is under British control and adequately guarded; and if he will say whether the necessary steps have been taken to repair the cable between Anglesey and Kingstown?

The Irish ends of submarine cables between this country and Southern Ireland fall under the control of the Irish Provisional Government, but for the present any necessary repair work which could not be done from land would be undertaken by one of the Post Office cable ships. These cables have not been interfered with, any interruptions which have occurred having been on the connecting land lines in Ireland.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has been able to find employment for any, and, if so, how many, of the barristers or solicitors who formed the military legal staff in Ireland prior to the treaty, and who before; joining and on disbandment were promised prior claim to consideration in connection with any Government legal appointment?

A special Committee was appointed to consider the best openings for the future employment of these-officers, and I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of the Report of this Committee. The Appointments Department is making every possible effort to find these officers alternative employment, and their claims will also he considered in connection with any vacancies in the Government service where legal knowledge is required. Owing, however, to the large reductions which have been, and are continuing to be, effected in the staffs of Government Departments generally, it has not yet been possible to appoint any of the officers to other suitable posts under the Government.

Does the hon. Gentleman hope soon to appoint some of them? Is he aware there are many cases of hardship?

I believe there are cases which merit consideration, but I am afraid that I can at present add nothing to my answer.

Will these gentlemen receive the same care and attention as the conscientious objectors who have been re-instated in Government employ?

Was the destruction of the Four Courts helpful to the legal profession in Ireland?

asked the Home Secretary whether he has any information with regard to the number of branches of the Irish Self-Determination League in London and throughout the country; what does he estimate to be the number of adherents; whether the meetings are open to the public; whether his officers have been able to obtain access to the meetings, and, if so, what is the nature of the propaganda; and if any of the leaders have been arrested during the recent police raids?

I am informed that in March last the number of branches, large and small, of this league in England and Wales was about 200, 32 of them being London branches, but that since then their number and the membership, which was about 18,000, have considerably decreased. The meetings are usually open to the public. The opinions of prominent members of the organisation in regard to the Treaty differ, and the propaganda of the league has therefore assumed a restricted character, and is not necessarily objectionable. Some of the men detained after the recent police raids are known to be members of the league.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any news with reference to Southern Ireland that he can give to the House?

According to the latest information which has reached me, the Hammam Hotel and other buildings in Sackville Street were in flames at midday. A white flag was displayed, and the fire brigade approached to deal with the flames. Suddenly, however, the flag was withdrawn, and fire was re-opened by the irregulars. One fireman was wounded, and the action was then resumed on both sides. At 2.45 the attack was still proceeding. The whereabouts of De Valera are still unknown, and it is uncertain whether he is within the cordon of the Irish national troops or whether he has deserted his comrades and escaped. Public opinion in Dublin is steadily supporting the Provisional Government.

Ha? the right hon. Gentleman any news about Southern Ireland except from Dublin?

I have no news.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, apart from the Press report, there is any confirmation of the fact that Mr. de Valera is engaged in any of the fighting?

Oh. yes, I think so; that is my information.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware of the conditions as to rent and otherwise which the dockyard authorities seek to impose on licensed boatmen in landing passengers at Bovisand Pier, in Plymouth Sound; that these proposed conditions will be detrimental to the boatmen in earning their livelihood and will restrict the enjoyment of Bovisand Beach by the people of Plymouth; and whether he will cause the proposed conditions to be modified?

It is only equitable that boatmen and others who use this Admiralty pier for commercial profit should make some payment for the facilities afforded. The terms have not been finally settled, but the hon. Member may rest assured that they will not be unreasonable.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the charge being made at present is £5, which is a very serious burden on small boatmen, who are seeking simply to carry on a boating trade which did exist before the War and before the Admiralty took the land?

I understand that the charge of £5 is the annual fee for motor boats, which carry a very considerable number of passengers, and that it would work out at about ½d. per passenger.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will inquire into the circumstances of the case of J. G. S. Holbrook, of I, Richmond Terrace, Pear Tree Road, Derby, who was employed at the Rolls-Royce Works, Derby, until November, 1920, when he was sent to work as a labourer by the Exchange constructing drains, etc., from February to May, 1921, his card being stamped by himself during that period, but which the Derby Employment Exchange refuse to allow him to deposit, as a consequence of which he is refused employment on the relief schemes and has been advised by the manager of the Exchange to apply for a refund of his insurance contributions, which have not yet been paid to him; and whether he will take such action as will ensure justice being done in this case?

I am having inquiries made into the case of the workman referred to, and I will communicate the result to my hon. Friend.

asked the Minister of Labour the number of persons unemployed in the yarn spinning industry?

In the statistics of unemployment kept by the Department yarn spinners are not distinguished from other branches of the textile trades. I may say, however, that on 22nd May there were 51,484 persons in the cotton trade registered as wholly unemployed at Employment Exchanges in Great Britain and 15,335 persons in the woollen and worsted trade; in addition, there were 17,965 cotton trade workers and 2,964 woollen and worsted trade workers registered as on short time.

Has the hon. Gentleman had his attention directed to an authoritative statement that 2,300 people would be thrown out of work were the Order to be made which is now before the House?

No; I have received no information of that.

Is the hon. Gentleman receiving a deputation this afternoon on the subject?

Not that I am aware.

asked the Minister of Labour whether his Department prosecutes persons who receive unemployment pay under false pretences: and, if so, can he state the number of prosecutions and convictions obtained during the last 12 months?

Yes, Sir. During the 12 months ended 30th June, 1922, 1,612 prosecutions were instituted in Great Britain, and convictions were obtained in 1,484 cases.

asked the Minister of Health the present rate of annual expenditure, based on the latest returns, of money spent in the way of public assistance from all sources for the relief of distress caused by unemployment and for which no useful work is required in return?

The expenditure of boards of guardians on the outdoor relief of unemployed persons and their dependants during the four weeks ended 27th May last was £983,090, but my right hon. Friend is unable to say to what extent this money was paid to persons from whom no useful work is required. Assuming the same rate of expenditure to continue throughout the year, the total annual expenditure would be £12,780,170. My right hon. Friend must refer the hon. Member to the Minister of Labour for information as to the expenditure on unemployment benefit.

Will the hon. Gentleman ask the Minister of Health whether, instead of spending £12,000,000 for doing nothing, he will influence the Minister of Labour to allow grants to be made from the Unemployment Fund for the building of houses, so that we might get productive work?

asked the Minister of Health whether he has now had replies to his Circular No. 298 to boards of guardians; if he can give the House figures showing the amounts spent by hoards of guardians in relieving unemployed persons for the 13 weeks ending 1st July; and, if not, when he expects to be in a position to furnish such Return?

The replies to the circular are being received, and my right hon. Friend hopes to be able to furnish a complete Return at the end of this month.

asked the Minister of Health what are the respective percentages of the inhabitants now in receipt of Poor Law assistance in Rother-ham, Sheffield, Bournemouth, and Bath; and whether he will consider the establishment of a common fund or national pool for the relief of exceptional distress?

The relevant percentages for the Poor Law Unions comprising the towns referred to are: Rotherham Union 5·8; Sheffield Union 18·7; Ecclesall Bierlow Union 10·0; Christchurch Union 1·8; and Bath Union 3·2. As regards the last part of the question, I can only refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Middlesbrough on the 28th June, of which I am sending him a copy.

When will the right hon. Gentleman be able to say what the Government can do in the way of equalising the rates in the provinces the same as he has done in London"

I have nothing to add to the statement which I have already made on the question.

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now announce any decision concerning the gap of five weeks in unemployment insurance benefit which he promised to consider when he received, on 20th June, a deputation from necessitous areas?

My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said yesterday that he hoped to be in a position to make an announcement on this subject early next week.

asked the Minister of Labour why unemployment benefit is still paid to 30,000 women in London, and to thousands of girls over school age, when for most of them domestic service is immediately available in good homes at good wages; and whether he will take steps to remedy this?

The figure of 30,000 women to which my hon. Friend refers is not the number drawing benefit, but the number registered as wholly unemployed on 29th May, as he will see by referring to the answer given on 28th June. The number of women actually drawing benefit in the Greater London area on 19th June is estimated at about 14,000. In addition, there were about 7,600 whose benefit was temporarily suspended owing to the "gap." The number of girls drawing benefit at the same date was about 800, and in addition there were 140 on the "gap." As has been stated in reply to a number of questions during this Session, applicants who are suitable for and refuse domestic service would not be granted unemployment benefit. If my hon. Friend wishes I will send him a list of the occupations of the women unemployed and drawing benefit.

Seeing that the abuse of the unemployment benefit being applied to domestic servants is causing misery in thousands of homes in different parts of the country, will the hon. Gentleman invite the Select Committee to inquire into the mischief, and see how it can be rectified?

I am afraid I cannot accept the term "abuse." My right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and I are examining this matter, and give it close attention daily. If my hon. Friend will come to the Ministry, I think I can put before him figures which will relieve his mind on the subject.

Will the hon. Gentleman go into the thousands of homes, and see the position for himself?

asked the Minister of Health the number of houses in the United Kingdom which have been condemned by local authorities or their medical officers of health as unfit for human habitation and still remain occupied, and the population of the areas covered by such reports?

The Annual Reports for 1920 of medical officers of health for 1,500 local authorities showed that out of 1,085,000 houses inspected during the year 24,210 were reported as unfit. Information as to the number of persons inhabiting these houses is not available.

asked the Minister of Health what proportion in the value of cottage property erected by public utility societies can now be borrowed from Government sources; and whether his attention has been called to the great advantages which would result from making that proportion as large as is consistent with security against loss of public money?

In cases where the scheme of a public utility society is approved by my right hon. Friend and ranks for subsidy, the Public Works Loan Board have power at present to advance money up to 75 per cent. of the cost of the scheme as approved. For schemes not under subsidy the proportion is two-thirds; that being as much as in the experience obtained can safely be advanced on the security.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that very much more than that is advanced in foreign countries on this security?

If the hon. Member can give me any information on that subject, I shall be much obliged.

asked the Minister of Health whether a confidential circular has been issued from the Ministry of Health withdrawing the allowance for extra food for ex-service men under treatment, in hospitals and other similar places, for consumption; and, if so, what is the reason for the order?

The answer is in the negative. I am not aware that it has ever been the practice to provide extra food for ex-service patients in approved institutions for the treatment of tuberculosis, and I have at no time authorised or recommended any such practice. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of a circular issued by my Department to local authorities on the 17th January last which contains general advice as to the feeding of patients at tuberculosis institutions.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the local War Pensions Committees were empowered by Warrant to give the extra allowance for food in the case of the ex-service men suffering from tuberculosis and in institutions—does he not know that?

That is not in the question. The question I was asked whether I have withdrawn any allowance.

Is not this allowance made by the local War Pensions Committee to these institutions, and the circular to which reference has been made is being interpreted that they are not now to have the benefit of this?

Is it not the circular that has been issued by the Pensions Minister that has led to the complication to which the hon. Gentleman refers?

That may be so.

In view of the importance of this matter will my right hon. Friend make further inquiries as to whether this allowance has ceased to exist, and whether or not he administered it by arrangement?

Certainly, I will go into it.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the rents and consequent heavy rates being paid by ex-service land settlers, he will take steps to secure a permanent reduction of rents or direct the Small Holdings Committees to make such reductions?

I have been asked to reply. Pending the stabilising of agricultural conditions, the cases of ex-service smallholders who suffered hardship owing to the drought and other exceptional circumstances last year, have been dealt with by abatement of rent. Where, however, exceptional circumstances demand it, I should be prepared to consider proposals by Small Holdings Committees for permanent reductions of rents as from Michaelmas next, provided that the reduced rent is not less than the best which could reasonably be obtained for the holding in the open market.

asked the Minister of Agriculture in what years, if any, since 1st January, 1910, the herds of the United Kingdom have been completely free from all of the scheduled diseases?

I have been asked to reply. In no year since the 1st January, 1910, has the United Kingdom been completely free from all diseases scheduled under the Diseases of Animals Acts.

asked the Prime Minister which is the Departmental list that deals with the names of foreigners that are to be submitted for honours?

The Foreign Office submits recommendations in regard to persons other than those of British nationality.

Did not the Foreign Office recommend the highest possible honour for a foreign millionaire?

Obviously, I could not answer that question without knowing the person whom my hon. Friend has in mind, and without sufficient notice to consult the authorities.

The hon. Member is not entitled to put a question by way of a supplementary that has several times been refused

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether he can now give a definite date for the Debate on the Motion standing in the names of 266 Members in regard to the submission of names to His Majesty for honours?

The Government had hoped to give a day next week for the discussion of this Motion, but, owing to the continued indisposition of my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House (Mr. Chamberlain), who desires to be in his place on that occasion, I am afraid that it will not be possible to fix a date earlier than Monday, 17th July, for this Debate.

Is not the Prime Minister the sole person responsible for the official submission of lists of honours, and, if that is the case, why is it necessary that the Lord Privy Seal should be here?

The Lord Privy Seal particularly desires to be present and to take part in the general statement of the Government case, and I think that, considering that only a delay of less than 10 days is involved, it would be quite a departure from the usual consideration which the House shows to Members, to object to deferring the Debate until my right hon. Friend can be in his place to take part in it.

No one would wish to do anything which would at all inconvenience the Leader of the House, whose continued absence we all most deeply regret; but may we take it that on Monday week, the 17th, the Debate will take place whether the Leader of the House is able to be here or not, and is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a great deal of public interest in this matter, and that a large number of Members desire its immediate discussion?

Yes, Sir. The Government would have desired that the Debate should take place next Monday, and that, from many points of view, would have been more convenient to them; but we hope that the Leader of the House will be in his place on the Monday following, and, therefore, we have asked the House to agree to the Debate being put off till then, In the event of the Leader of the House not being able to be present on that day, I agree that we shall then have to go forward with the Debate, in spite of the disadvantage of his absence.

Can we be certain that the Prime Minister will be in his place on the 17th?

I am certain that, if it rest with the Prime Minister, he will be the first person to wish to be present.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of under-em-ployment and unrest in the coalfields, and the approaching expiration of the agreement between miners and owners, he will consider the inviting of representatives of both sides to a conference?

There is already in existence a Joint National Board representing the owners and the workpeople in the coal mining industry, which will provide a ready means for the two parties to review the present wages agreement if notice is given to determine it, and I hope that it will be unnecessary for the Government to intervene in the matter.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in several areas where the miners are working all the time available, they have to apply to the guardians to help them to live?

I have seen, with concern, references to this state of affairs which have appeared recently in a great many newspapers.

Will the right hon. Gentleman suggest to the Prime Minister anything that will relieve this state of affairs? Is it not bound to cause unrest?

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, seeing that the coal merchants of London have reduced the price by 9s. per ton, what reduction has been secured by the said merchants from the colliery companies who supply them; the date on which this reduced contract was entered into; and the names of the colliery companies concerned?

I have already given to the House all the information in my possession on this subject, and am not in a position to add to the answer that I gave to the hon. Member when he asked me this question on Monday last.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any particulars regarding the murder of British officers in Kurdistan; and whether he will explain the exact responsibility of His Majesty's Government in these regions?

I have received no further particulars regarding the murder of the officers referred to. As I have already informed the House, it was due to an act of individual treachery on the part of a Kurdish chief. I am fully alive to the necessity of ensuring by every possible means that officers employed in the responsible duty of representing His Majesty's Government in these wild regions should be adequately protected and I am in communication with the High Commission on the whole subject. With regard to the second part of the question, His Majesty's Government have accepted a mandate for Mesopotamia, of which the district known as Southern Kurdistan is an integral part. The acceptance of the mandate carries with it the responsibility for the preservation of order in the district. This is being accomplished now, as it has been for the past four or five years, by means of a loose political control exercised through the British political officers over the Kurdish leaders. It has never been our policy to force the Kurds under the rule of King Feisal's government in Iraq, though it is confidently anticipated that as soon as stability is made possible by the conclusion of peace with Turkey the Arabs and Kurds will, in their own interests, come to some arrangement satisfactory to both parties. Meanwhile it would be too much to hope that occasional acts of lawlessness and treachery should not occur. In the suppression of these acts and in the punishment of offenders, British-officered levies, supported by aircraft, are being employed, and casualties must occasionally be faced. Combined punitive operations are now taking place, and the garrison of Kirkuk has been temporarily reinforced in order that the levies may be free to search out and punish the murderers.

Could the right hon. Gentleman tell the House the name of the second officer murdered?

I have not accurately charged my memory, but I think the name of the one was Bond, and of the other Makant.

I thought that was the second.

Does the answer refer to the murders of 1st June and the 1st January last?

No, Sir. I am dealing more particularly with the last two murders.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why it is essential for the success of the present financial negotiations for the development of British Guiana that control of the finances of this important colony should be transferred to the Colonial Office; and whether he has given full consideration to the local opposition to this step?

The policy of the Colonial Office on the subject is explained in some detail on pages 87 and 88 of the report upon my visit to the West Indies and British Guiana which has been recently presented to Parliament (Cmd. 1670). and to which I would refer my hon. Friend.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a British Delegation is at present in British Guiana with the object of encouraging development in that colony, and have not differences of opinion in the past prevented very large schemes of development taking place, and will he see if any arrangement can be made to reconcile local opinion and the policy of the Colonial Office?

Would it not be possible to localise the present antiquated system of financial control to Georgetown, its immediate neighbourhood, and work the hinterland entirely under Colonial Office control?

To the last hon. Gentleman I would say that this is a very difficult and broad question of policy which I must excuse myself replying about now. As regards the first question, I am aware that there is a British deputation at present in British Guiana, but I think it is more prudent to await the result of that deputation, whatever it may be, before making any statement.

Could not the hon. Gentleman give some encouraging words to these gentlemen, in order to enable them to carry on their negotiations?

That was the object of such observations as I made yesterday in the Debate—to offer encouragement in these matters.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to the serious effect produced on the trade of British West Africa by the present export duties; and whether there is any prospect of their removal in the near future?

I would refer my hon. Friend to my observations on this subject in the course of yesterday's Debate.

asked the Prime Minister when it is intended that the Debate on the Canadian cattle embargo should take place: and what is the policy of the Cabinet on this subject?

I am sorry that it will not be possible to take this discussion next week as was intended owing to the fact that so many Members from Northern Ireland cannot be present. It is hoped, however, that it will be possible to announce a date next week. As regards the last part of the question the attitude of the Government to this subject has already been defined in reply to previous questions.

Is the policy of the Government to carry out whatever mandate is given by the House of Commons when the discussion does take place?

I am sure that I should be very ill-advised if I were to add anything to the declarations which have been made from this bench as to the policy of the Government.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that declarations have been made with emphasis on both sides of this question by Cabinet Ministers?

Yes, and statements have also been made as to what are the relations of those declarations to the policy of the Government.

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to give a definite date for the discussion next week?

No, Sir. It is however hoped that a definite date may be given next week.

Can the right hon. Gentleman not give us some definite understanding on this question, because it has been repeatedly put off?

It would be a great mistake to fix the date at this stage, because it necessarily depends on the progress of business.

Is not the effect of postponing the discussion to rob us of the time to give it legislative effect?

asked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government has yet fixed a date for the ratification of the Treaties negotiated at the Washington Conference or a date for the introduction of the Bill to enable the Government to carry out their obligations under the Treaties; whether the House will be given an opportunity of discussing the Treaties prior to ratification; whether the House will be given an opportunity before ratification of discussing the unfulfilled declaration of Japan respecting her military occupation of Russian territory; and whether, before either ratification or the introduction of the Bill, friendly representations will be made to Japan to carry out completely the pledges not only respecting the mainland of Siberia but also Russian Sakhalin?

As regards the first two parts of the question, it is hoped to take the Bill which has come down from another place on Friday or Monday next. In this connection I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House on the 22nd May last. With reference to the third part of the question, the Japanese Government has given an official assurance that they will evacuate the Maritime Province by the end of October. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Is it not a fact that Sakhalin was taken by the Russians from the Japanese, and was formerly Japanese territory?

I am afraid I cannot answer that question without notice.

asked the Prime Minister if the Interim Reports of the Committee appointed by the Government for the amalgamation or coordination of certain services common to the Navy, Army, and Air Force will be published soon after their respective submission to the Cabinet; and whether any such publication may be expected this year?

It is not customary to publish the Reports of Cabinet Committees, which are necessarily of a confidential character, but I cannot give any definite answer to this question until the Committee has made its Report. It may prove to be exceptionally suitable for publication.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that, although Oldham and Rochdale are included in the revised edition of the Manchester Telephone Directory, places nearer to Manchester, such as Bolton and Bury, are excluded; and whether the next edition can be revised to include all areas within at least 20 miles of Manchester?

Oldham and Rochdale have for several years past been included in the Manchester sectional telephone directory, while Bolton and Bury are included in the Mid-Lancashire directory. The only alteration in the present edition is the arrangement of the subcribers' names in one alphabetical group. To include all places within 20 miles of Manchester in the next issue of the Manchester Directory would unduly increase the size of the book, and would also involve the inclusion of many places more proper to the directories for Liverpool, Blackburn and other large centres.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the possibility of a smaller radius, in view of the fact that the present areas have no relation whatever to the commercial needs of the district?

It is very difficult to please everybody with regard to this question, but I will consider what my hon. and gallant Friend has said.

asked the President of the Board of Education how many local education authorities have adopted the Burnham Scale I, how many have adopted Scale II, how many have adopted Scale III, and how many have adopted Scale IV for teachers' salaries in public elementary schools; and how many local education authorities have adopted none of the Burnham Scales?

Of the 317 local education authorities in England and Wales,

• 38 are paying their teachers on the Provisional Minimum Scale;
• 14 on Standard Scale I;
• 68 on Standard Scale II;
• 167 on Standard Scale III;
• 24 on Standard Scale IV; and
• 5 on scales which arc not Burnham Scales;
• 1 authority is paying some of its teachers on Standard Scale II and others on Standard Scale III.

asked the Pre sident of the Board of Education whether any suggestions or instructions, verbal or printed, have been issued by the Board of Education urging those responsible for the training of teachers to gradually reduce the number of persons entering the teaching profession?

No general suggestions or instructions of the kind referred to have been issued by the Board. The Board have, however, found it necessary, in one or two cases recently, to warn the responsible authorities that candidates must not be admitted to training institutions in excess of the accommodation recognised by the Board, which, since the War, has in many cases been considerably exceeded.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether his attention has been called to the case of Mr. B. Tyman, of 16, Hilda Terrace, Stanley, County Durham, late Durham Light Infantry, Identity No. 2/M.T./653; whether he is aware that this man was awarded in March last a pension of 20s. plus 8s. 9d. for his wife and child, and that, in spite of all his efforts, he has never been able to obtain any payment in respect of the child; whether payment on account of himself and his wife has now also been stopped, and for what reason; and whether he is aware that this man has been out of work since 4th January and is consequently in great-need?

Owing to a misunderstanding, which I much regret, the man has been receiving only 25s., instead of the 28s. 9d. a week to which he is entitled, but immediate steps have been taken for payment to be made at the latter rate, together with all arrears due.

Can the hon. And gallant Gentleman say why this man's repeated applications for the extra money have received no attention, and instead of the additional money being paid, his own pay has been stopped?

The authority for the payment of the pension has never been stopped.

But the money has been stopped.

There is a sum paid in substitution. I have inquired into the matter, and I understand that the full pay and arrears will be paid up this week. I cannot give full particulars, because this case is in the Northern Region and we have not yet received all the papers.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been drawn to a memorandum with regard to the disposal of Gretna factory circulated to Members by the Annan Town Council, in particular to the statement that a syndicate composed of men of high repute and substance was prepared to launch out a large sum upon the acquisition of the property; and, if so, whether he intends to take any official action in the matter?

My attention has been drawn to the memorandum in question, and I propose to circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT correspondence rising therefrom between the Chairman of the Disposal and Liquidation Commission and the Annan Town Council.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what expenditure has been incurred up to the present in connection with the preparation of official histories in connection with the Great War; and if he will state what further expenditure will be required to complete the work?

The total expenditure to 31st March last was £42,265. Two of the histories are approaching completion, but it is not possible at present to state the total expenditure required to complete the series.

What additional amount is required to complete these histories, and when will they be issued?

We cannot pay this money without the sanction of the House. It must be done in the Votes, and I cannot give my hon. and gallant Friend any further information at the moment.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps have been taken to obtain the extradition from Austria of Mr. G. L. Bevan; and whether, in view of the widespread distress resulting from the operations with which he was associated, all possible measures will be followed to secure his return to this country.

The usual procedure has been followed and every effort is being made to secure Mr. Bevan's return at the earliest possible date. Some delay is inevitable because the Act of 1870 precludes any prisoner extradited from a foreign country from being tried in this country for any offence committed before his surrender except such as may be proved by the facts on which his surrender was granted. It is therefore obviously undesirable that Bevan's extradition from Austria should be effected till the Austrian Government has been put in possession of evidence relating to all the charges on which it is desired to try him in this country and care is necessary in selecting and formulating such charges, but it is hoped that the evidence will be completed in the course of this week.

May we assume that there will be no extraordinary difficulty placed in the way by the Austrian authorities?

I have no reason to suppose that the Austrian authorities will throw any difficulties in the way.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether there is any-written or verbal undertaking by His Majesty's Government to the Government of the United States of America regarding the policy to be pursued towards Mexico; and, if so, what is the nature of the undertaking?

No undertaking of the nature suggested has been given by His Majesty's Government.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has yet made himself acquainted with the agreement concluded between the International Committee of Bondholders and the Mexican Finance Minister in New York?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the reported arrangement for the settlement of the obligations of Mexico; and can he say whether the British-owned railways are included in the suggested settlement?

The International Committee are a purely private body and are under no obligation to inform His Majesty's Government of their proceedings, which accordingly in no way affect the responsibilities of His Majesty's Government. The Committee have not furnished any information about the agreement which has been reported in the Press, but inquiries are being made.

In view of the fact that on several occasions the hon. Gentleman has said it is important to know how British interests stand in Mexico, would it not be worth the while of the Foreign Office to make inquiries very speedily as to the nature of this agreement? Would it not be possible to get a copy of it in a few hours to-day?

That is a matter entirely for this private Committee, which I have no doubt will furnish any information as may be desired.

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

That is one of the matters in regard to which we are making inquiries. The constitution of the Committee includes bankers, but I am not specifically informed whether the railways are included in the suggested settlement.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India for what reason the revised rates of pay for British officers of the Indian Army, published in Indian Army Instructions of 28th June, 1921, by which the pay of a major, after five years' service in that rank, is fixed at Rs.1,050 per mensem, is limited to officers who are regimentally employed, and has not been extended to cantonment magistrates and other departmental officers; and whether this extension will now be considered?

The improved scale sanctioned in 1921 was not applied to departmental officers, because the Government of India and the Secretary of State-in-Council accepted the view of the Esher Committee that no further increase was required in the total emoluments of these officers, which had been revised in 1919.

May I ask why Question No. 18 has not been called?

It was answered before the hon. and gallant Gentleman arrived.

When?

It was answered in conjunction with No. 12.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.