asked the Secretary of State for India the present situation in the negotiations which have been taking place between the Government of India and the Government of the Nizam of Hyderabad as to the position that the Berars would occupy under a federal constitution; what changes do these negotiations involve in the present status of this territory; and is the change dependent on his adherence to the proposed All-India federation?

A provisional agreement has been reached with His Exalted Highness the Nizam as to the constitutional position of the Berars in the event of the establishment of Autonomous Provinces and a Federation. This question, which is separate from that of the adherence of Hyderabad proper to a Federation, arises out of the unusual and complicated status of the Berars. The practical effect of the agreement is that the method of governing the Berars in conjunction with the Central Provinces would be changed only to the extent necessary to bring it into line with the proposed political developments in other parts of India. The ratification of the agreement with the Nizam must naturally depend upon the decision of Parliament as to the scheme as a whole.

Will my right hon. Friend say if it is the case that the proposals that have been made will add to the prestige or position of His Exalted Highness in regard to the Berars?

It is difficult to give a general answer to a question of that kind. The negotiation is a complicated one, covering a number of points, but my Noble Friend may rest assured that the Joint Select Committee are considering all those points.

Are we to understand that the negotiations with the Berars are subject to what the Committee recommend?

I have said that in regard to certain aspects of the case, the ultimate decision must be with Parliament.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether His Majesty's Government are considering the restitution to the Nizam of Hyderabad of the area known as the Residency Bazaar and of the city of Secunderabad?

The area hitherto known as the Hyderabad Residency Bazaar, with the exception of the Residency and its grounds, was restored to His Exalted Highness the Nizam in May last. No change as regards the Cantonment of Secunderabad is proposed.

asked the Secretary of State for India what agreement has been reached with the Maharaja of Mysore in regard to the proposed cession of the residency civil stations and British cantonments at Bangalore; and is the cession dependent on the adherence of the Maharaja to the proposed All-India federation?

I am not yet in a position to add anything to the statements which I made on 1st May last, in reply to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Wycombe (Sir A. Knox).

Are we to understand again that these negotiations with the Maharajah of Mysore are subject to the decision of Parliament in regard to the setting up of the proposed Federation?

I would not like to exclude the possibility of dealing with these cases independently, but, speaking generally, I would say that they come within the constitutional problem which the Joint Committee are considering, and to that extent the decision will be subject to the decision eventually taken by Parliament.

Has the right hon. Gentleman received a memorandum expressing the anxiety of traders and others in Bangalore?

I do not think that I have received such a memorandum, but these questions are, I know, being taken into account by the Resident in the negotiation which is now going on between him and the Maharajah.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he can make any statement as to the success of the police force in dealing with the crisis caused by the earthquake at Muzzafarpur; and whether, for any reason, the native police, including officers, were unable to fulfil their duties?

So far as my information goes, the police at Muzzafarpur discharged most efficiently the responsibilities placed on them by the earthquake, and no case has come to my notice in which any grade failed to fulfil its duties. I should like to take this opportunity to add, to the many tributes already paid in India, my appreciation of the work done under terrible strain, by the officers of all ranks and of all departments throughout the stricken area.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether any relief will be afforded to the British planters in Bihar, many of whom have been ruined by the earthquake?

Yes, Sir. I am sending my hon. Friend a statement made by a member of the Bihar and Orissa Executive Council on the subject.

Does that answer relate to the destruction of their bungalows and mills?

I think that I had better send a statement to my hon. Friend. If he wants any further information, I will try to obtain it for him.

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that a number of political prisoners have been on hunger strike since 15th February in the Alipore Central Gaol, Calcutta; whether he will state the number of prisoners on hunger strike, the offence with which these prisoners have been charged, and the nature of the demands which they have put forward; and whether he will inform the House as to their present physical condition?

I have already asked the Government of India for a report, and will communicate with the hon. Member directly I receive it.

Will the right hon. Gentleman inform the House whether this hunger strike is voluntary, and, if so, what responsibility can be attached to the Government of India or to His Majesty's Government for the physical condition of the strikers?

I had better await the report before I make a statement to the House.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it will be a condition of the approval of the £1,500,000 loan toy the British Boxer Indemnity Fund for the purpose of completing the railway between Canton and Hankow, that all railway material required to be imported therefor shall, so far as possible, be of British manufacture?

I understand that the Board of Trustees have under consideration a proposal to raise a loan secured on the half of the British share of the Boxer Indemnity instalments paid to the board in accordance with the terms of the China Indemnity (Application) Act, 1931. The proceeds of the loan would be expended on construction work in connection with the Canton-Hankow Railway in China, and not on foreign material, but the carrying out of this work would subsequently result in large orders for railway material and equipment being placed in this country by the Chinese Government Purchasing Commission in London. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has been consulted on the matter, and in the special circumstances he has decided to offer no objection to the proposed sterling loan to be raised in Shanghai.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received any report from His Majesty's Legation at Peking on present conditions in North China, particularly in the neutral zone South of the Great Wall and in the province of Charhar; and whether he is able to state by whom the passes in the Great-Wall are now held?

According to reports received from His Majesty's Legation, the situation in North China and Charhar Province has during the last few months remained generally peaceful. The neutral zone was disturbed at the end of December by the incursion of a small number of rebellious Chinese troops. The revolt, however, never assumed serious proportions and by early in January conditions were once more normal, being governed by the conditions of the armistice of the 31st May last. So far as I am aware, the passes in the Great Wall still remain in Japanese occupation.

Is the statement correct that there has been a more or less mutually satisfactory arrangement come to between the Chinese and Japanese Governments?

I think that that must be so, because my information is that the situation is not changed, and that the conditions of the armistice of 31st May last are being observed.

asked the Secretary of State for Foregin Affairs whether since 14th February, 1934, Hungary, Yugoslavia and Rumania have completed payment to British holders of Hungarian securities under the protocol of Innsbruck and the Prague and Paris arrangements; and, if not, will he now make representations to the Governments concerned?

As far as I am aware, the answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. With regard to the second part, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer returned to my hon. Friend the Member for North Aberdeen (Mr. Burnett) on the 14th February.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the Greek Government is seeking a foreign loan to be expended upon equipment for the Peloponnesus Railway; and will he, in view of the treatment of British investors in Greek loans, make it clear to the Greek Government that the embargo upon the public issue here of Greek loans will be continued and that a Greek loan placed here privately will not be a negotiable instrument?

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

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in order to prevent misunderstanding, he will, before Dr. Aranha, the Brazilian Minister of Finance, starts for London to negotiate with the issuing houses which acted as agents for the sale in Britain of the now-defaulted Brazilian bonds, inform the Brazilian Government that the unilateral decree of default imposed upon the British creditors of Brazil is not regarded by His Majesty's Government as a satisfactory arrangement?

I understand that the Brazilian Minister of Finance does not intend to visit this country as suggested in the right hon. Gentleman's question, and the second part of the question does not therefore arise.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many British subjects have emigrated to Russia (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) during the last two years?

I regret that no figures are available.

Would the Foreign Secretary give consideration in the near future as to whether a grant could be given to each constituency, or to any hon. Member, to enable them to send out to Russia men desiring to go there? I have 120—

Order!

I think that that had better be left to private enterprise.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give the House any information about the conversations at Rome between Italy, Hungary and Austria and, in particular, about their bearing on the undertaking given by Austria in the 1922 protocol not to alienate its independence and to abstain from any negotiations and from any engagement calculated directly or indirectly to compromise its indepedence?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can now make any statement with regard to the attitude of His Majesty's Government to the negotiations in Southern Europe bearing on the future of Austria and Hungary; and whether there has been any practical result of the three-Power conference on the subject?

A summary of the Protocols signed by Italy, Austria and Hungary at Rome on Saturday has appeared in the Press. I have not yet received the full text, but so far as I am at present aware it does not conflict with the undertaking given by Austria in the 1922 Protocol.

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider whether it would be wise for the British Government to take the initiative in conversations designed to offer a guarantee of independence to Austria, conditional upon the re-establishment of free institutions in that country?

I do not think I could answer a supplementary question on that subject.

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether there is any evidence of increased busi- ness coming to British firms as a result of the British week in Finland; and whether any part of the expenses incurred was a charge on public funds?

Yes, Sir. But as the particulars are long, I propose, with the consent of my hon. Friend, to circulate them in the OFFICIAL REPORT. AS regards the second part of question, no charge on public funds was incurred.

As I understand the reply is favourable, is it the intention of the hon. Gentleman to promote further trade exhibitions in other parts of Europe?

Yes, Sir. That will have our consideration.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the British Government receives approximately £2,000,000 every year from its Suez Canal shares, and that over £43,000,000 have been received since the shares were purchased; and, in view of the fact that the divdiends are largely the result of canal dues paid by British ships, will he bear in mind these sums when considering ways and means for helping the British mercantile marine?

I understand that the figures are approximately as given by my hon. Friend. As regards the second part of the question, all relevant considerations will be borne in mind.

Can the hon. Gentleman say from memory the amount of money invested?

No, Sir.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the various traders and manufacturers have improved their methods of production and marketing under the new fiscal system to the satisfaction of the Government; and, if not, what action it is proposed to take to secure re-organisation?

I could not attempt to deal within the limits of a Parliamentary reply with the subject which the hon. Member raises.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has any statement to make with regard to the cotton industry pursuant to his conversations with the Japanese Ambassador?

My right hon. Friend saw the Japanese Ambassador on 16th March and the Ambassador intimated that he would communicate with his Government. I cannot say more at present.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the number of convictions during the past 12 months of persons offering for sale non-British goods as being of British origin?

I regret that the figures for which the hon. and gallant Member asks are not available, as they are not distinguished in the returns from those relating to other offences against the Merchandise Marks Acts. During 1932, which is the latest period for which the returns are complete, 353 persons were found guilty by Courts of Summary Jurisdiction of offences against those Acts.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the existing machinery is adequate to deal with this class of offence?

I have no grounds to think otherwise.

asked the Minister of Agriculture how many new bacon factories have been started since 13th October, 1932?

I regret that the information which my hon. Friend desires is not available.

asked the Minister of Agriculture what is the present capacity of bacon factories operating under the pigs and bacon marketing scheme; and what percentage of capacity was utilised during the last contract period?

The present maximum capacity of the bacon factories in Great Britain is estimated at between 3½ and 4 million pigs per annum. The registered pig producers contracted to supply pigs during the last contract period on a scale equivalent to approximately 1,750,000 per annum. On this basis the percentage of total factory capacity utilised may be taken to have been rather less than 50.

asked the Minister of Agriculture what was the total number of contracts, and in respect of how many pigs, entered into by pig producers for the period from the 1st March to 31st December, 1932?

I regret I am not in a position to make a statement at present, but I hope to be able to do so shortly.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, having regard to the fact that the retained imports of beef and veal in February, 1934, were the highest for the month of February in any year yet recorded, he can state when it is proposed to restrict the imports of beef as a whole?

My hon. Friend will appreciate that regulation of imports can only be undertaken in observance of our existing agreements with the Dominions and with foreign countries.

When does my right hon. Friend propose to effect such a re- vision of these agreements as will enable us to protect the British livestock industry?

My hon. Friend knows better than almost anybody that these agreements in respect of meat run out in the summer of this year.

Does the Minister think that he will be able to restrict the hon. Member's "chin-wagging" so much on Fridays?

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the fall in price of fat cattle in Scotland, he intends to take any further steps to restrict imports of foreign beef; and whether the restrictions on imports of beef, already announced, are being in practice adhered to?

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that beef imports for the first two months have exceeded last year's imports by over 220,000 cwts.; and what measures are in prospect to check these imports in order to secure reasonably remunerative prices to home producers?

I am aware of the increase in imports of beef in the first two months of this year, which is attributable to larger supplies of frozen beef from Empire countries. These supplies are not at present subject to regulation. Foreign countries have hitherto adhered closely to their allocations, and I have no reason to suppose that they are not continuing to do so. With regard to further measures affecting imports, I regret I am unable to add to the reply which I gave on 15th March to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Tiverton (Lieut.-Colonel Acland-Troyte), of which I am sending my hon. and right hon. Friends a copy.

Will the Minister kindly answer the last part of Question No 25—when the cattle producers in this country are to expect reasonably remunerative prices?

I am afraid I could not answer that question. As to the question of time for consideration, my right hon. Friend will find that dealt with in the last part of the answer of which I am forwarding him a copy.

Can the Minister give an assurance to the House that, when the present agreement comes up for reconsideration, no methods will be precluded from his purview, and that the "doctor's mandate" will be unlimited in this respect?

Our examination is quite unprejudiced except in so far as we are limited by engagements which have been entered into.

Has there been any communication with the Governments of the Dominions with a view to further restriction of Dominion supples?

We are in continual communication with the Dominion Governments regarding the whole of these agricultural questions.

Will the right hon. Gentleman be equally careful to see that the price of supplies is such that the consumer can continue to consume?

That is one of the essential points. My hon. Friend will not deny that the cost of living has consistently fallen.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that the imports of frozen beef, butter, and cheese from the Dominions have largely exceeded previous imports; and what action it is proposed to take in order that these imports may be checked, thus giving the home producer the first preference in the home market?

I am aware that imports of butter, cheese, and beef from Dominion sources were larger in January and February of this year than in the corresponding months of 1933. As regards dairy produce, I would, however, remind my right hon. Friend of the statement on the Government's milk policy which I made on 22nd February, while, as regards beef, as I informed my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Tiverton (Lieut.-Colonel Acland - Troyte) on Thursday last, the situation will be further considered as soon as I receive the report of the Reorganisation Commission for Fatstock, which is expected shortly.

When these agreements come to an end, may we expect that the home producer will have the first preference in the home market?

Yes, Sir. I think the Dominions have also agreed to that position. It is generally agreed that the home producer should have the first place in the home market.

Is it not the case that the agreement made by the British delegates at Ottawa in regard to restriction of the Dominions' exports of meat referred to 1933 only; and may we know whether similar arrangements, or other suitable arrangements, are being discussed with them for 1934?

It is very difficult for me to go over the agreements at Question Time, but I think it would not be correct to say that they merely run to the end of 1933. There were clauses which covered the first six months of 1934 as well.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the fact that the price to be paid to farmers for milk sold to distributors as a result of the arbitrators' award, during the summer months period is even in the south-eastern area—where the price will be highest—below the cost of production, he can take any step to deal with the serious situation which will arise?

I have no power under the Milk Marketing Scheme to alter the award, as such. I have no doubt that the appointed persons, before arriving at their decision, took all relevant factors into consideration, including costs of production.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the award of the arbitrators will leave such a small margin to the producer of liquid milk that it will be impossible to carry on productively?

I am afraid that I cannot enter into discussions as to the merits of the award. The award has been made, and I have no power under the scheme to alter the award as such. The arbitrators gave very full consideration to the matter before making their award.

In view of the very serious situation which is likely to arise through the withholding of milk from the distributors, would the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to see the accredited representatives of the National Farmers' Union on the whole matter?

I am always prepared to meet the representatives of the National Farmers' Union.

Has the right hon. Gentleman any intention of going behind the backs of the arbitrators, or is he going to take any steps to interfere with their decision?

I have said that I have no power to alter the award.

Yes, but is the right hon. Gentleman going to apply any other method of trying to get round it? If not, what is the use of seeing the National Farmers' Union about the question?

As the hon. Member is aware, there are provisions in the Act of 1931 whereby aggrieved persons may lay their complaints before a committee of investigation, and, if that committee of investigation reports, I have to take certain action. It is possible that certain facts might be laid before me which would make it impossible for me to say that I would refuse to deal with them.

Who suggested that there should be arbitrators?

It was agreed between the two sides when the scheme was put forward, and it was finally clinched by this House.

Does it not show the weakness of putting things into the hands of people who are not responsible to Parliament?

In the present Parliament I doubt if the pressure would be on the side of my hon. Friend. Putting these matters directly into the hands of Parliament might lead to far greater injustices and grievances than those which have arisen.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will in- troduce legislation for the compulsory apportionment or redemption of tithe on land sold for building purposes?

The Tithe Act, 1878, provides for compulsory redemption of tithe rentcharge charged on land which has been divided for building or other purposes into numerous plots, and the Tithe Act, 1925, extends this to any case where the Ministry is satisfied that land is about to be so divided. Further legislation does not, therefore, appeal-to be necessary.

In case of any local difficulty of this kind, has the Minister power to act?

I do not think the Minister has power to act except in cases in which he is approached by those concerned, but I find it a little difficult to answer a point like that when it is put in a supplementary question.

asked the Minister of Agriculture if his attention has been called to the hardship and vexation sometimes caused to the buyer of a small plot of land by his having to pay tithe on the neighbouring land as well as his own and to collect what he can from his neighbour; and whether he will take steps to alter the law in this respect?

In the case referred to by my hon. Friend it is open to the purchaser to apply to the Ministry for re-apportionment by which his property can be charged separately with tithe rentcharge, and in such case is required to pay only his share of the cost of re-apportionment. Alternatively, the purchaser can apply for compulsory redemption, in which case he will only be called upon to pay his share of the cost of redemption of the whole tithe rentcharge. In these circumstances, I do not feel that the matter calls for further legislation.

May I ask to whom application would be made for compulsory redemption?

I am afraid that I should need to have notice of that question.

asked the Minister of Agriculture the number of stallions standing at the National Stud at Tully, County Kildare; how many outside mares they have served; and the total fees collected for 1932 and 1933, respectively?

Two stallions stood at the National Stud in 1932 and 1933; two mares were served in 1932, and 18 in 1933, and the fees earned were £47 5s. and £714, respectively.

In view of the unsatisfactory state of affairs disclosed by these figures, will the Minister consider the desirability of bringing the National Stud to this country, either in whole or in part?

Not only have I considered that point, but I answered a question on it a few days ago.

Will my right hon. Friend consider bringing it to New-market, which is the national home of racing?

asked the Postmaster-General for each of the last five years the amount of counter losses incurred by the Post Office?

The losses due to unexplained deficiencies in the cash or stock of counter clerks were as follow:

Has my right hon. Friend any estimate of the amount of money concerned?

Yes, Sir; about £800,000,000.

asked the Postmaster-General why the licences to two American cable companies were not renewed; has there been any consequential loss of revenue; whether the American cable companies pay royalties or other dues; and, if so, what is the amount so received for the last three completed years?

The formal licences for these companies' cables have not been renewed owing to certain difficulties which have not yet been overcome. Arrangements have, however, been made for the companies to continue their services, and there has been no consequential loss of revenue. The companies pay for the lease of telegraph lines and for other services rendered to them by the Post Office, but they have never made any payment to my Department in the nature of a royalty.

asked the Post-master-General whether he is aware that the Imperial and International Communications Company has applied for a licence to land a cable in America and been refused; and will he, in making any future arrangements, take steps to secure the same facilities for British companies operating in America as American companies enjoy in Great Britain?

I am informed by the Imperial and International Communications Company that they have not applied for a licence to land a cable in the United States. In considering any future arrangements for the grant of cable-landing licences, the question of reciprocity will not be overlooked.

asked the Postmaster-General if letters and packages posted by air mail and taken by Imperial Airways to India are transported on any portion of their journey by train; and if he can state the reason for this?

The Indian air mail is at present conveyed by rail between Paris and Brindisi, and on this point I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to the hon. Members for Melton (Mr. Everard) and Wolver-hampton East (Mr. Mander) by the Undersecretary of State for Air on the 7th February.

Is it the fact that the mails sent by the Dutch and French air mails arrive in India two days earlier than those sent by Imperial Airways?

That is another matter; I will communicate with my hon. Friend.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that cablegrams sent through the Post Office to places abroad frequently do not reach their destination, although those sent through a cable company do; and whether he will cause an investigation into the matter to be made?

I have no reason to believe that telegrams for places abroad sent by the Post Office are more liable to non-delivery than those sent by other routes. In the two specific cases to which my hon. Friend has called my attention, the telegrams were addressed to countries which are not served by Post Office routes, and they were handed over to a cable company for transmission abroad. The telegram for Panama has been traced; and I will ask the company to which it was handed to make inquiry concerning the cause of its failure. I will also make inquiry concerning the telegram which failed in delivery after arrival in Canada, if my hon. Friend will inform me at what Post Office it was handed in and on what date.

Thank you very much.

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the large potential demand for transatlantic telephony, he can hold out any prospect of the rates being reduced in the near future?

The possibility of reducing the rates in the transatlantic telephone service is considered from time to time, in consultation with our partners in the service, but I am unable to hold out any immediate prospect of a reduction.

Will the right hon. Gentleman look on the matter as one of considerable importance in view of the increased trade that might come about if ordinary business firms were able to speak daily across the Atlantic?

I will have regard to that.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is in possession of fuller details of the expenditure incurred by the British Broadcasting Corporation than is contained in the last annual report submitted to him by that body?

The answer is in the negative.

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider it to be unnecessary to use his power under the Charter to make a further investigation of all the documents?

Yes, Sir; I see no necessity for it.

asked the Post-master-General whether he will consider instituting an inquiry into the general administration of the British Broadcasting Corporation before the renewal of the corporation's charter; and whether, in view of the considerable time that such an inquiry would take, he will make an immediate announcement on the matter?

As the Charter granted to the British Broadcasting Corporation has nearly three years to run, it would, in my opinion, be premature at the present time to consider the appointment of a committee of inquiry such as my hon. Friend has in mind.

Would it not be a good thing to take the time by the forelock and appoint a Select Committee now to make the necessary inquiries?

No. That matter was considered by the House of Commons, I think, in February last year, and only 27 Members voted for the proposal.

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the various criticisms and comments throughout the Press on these matters and does he not consider—

That is a matter of opinion.

asked the Attorney-General whether he is aware that anxiety is felt in shipping circles, not only in Great Britain but in other countries also, as to the proposals contained in the Second Report of the Business of Courts Committee as affecting the Admiralty Court; and whether he can give an assurance that there is no intention of abolishing or in any way diminishing the status or authority of the Admiralty Court?

My attention has been called to statements which have appeared in the Shipping Press as well as in other quarters suggesting that the abolition of the Admiralty Court is under consideration. My Noble Friend, the Lord Chancellor, is well aware of the unique standing and reputation of the Admiralty Court and I am very glad to have his authority for assuring my Noble Friend that nothing will be done in any way to alter its character or diminish its authority.

asked the Attorney-General if his attention has been drawn to the statement in the "Daily Express" of 14th March, in which they give the names of Mr. Herbert Morrison and Mr. Alexander as having voted for dole cuts in the Labour Cabinet, and proposing to give the names of the other 10 Members who voted for a similar policy; and if he proposes to institute proceedings under the Official Secrets Act against this newspaper?

Before I answer the question, may I express my regret to the hon. Member that I was not here on the last occasion owing to the fact that I was not in my room at one a.m. on the morning the question was asked. I am not aware of any such statement. The hon. Gentleman has called my attention to a comment in the "Daily Express" of 14th March, to the effect that whereas another newspaper had thanked nine Cabinet Ministers who opposed certain economy measures, there were 12 other Members of the same Cabinet including Mr. Herbert Morrison and Mr. Alexander. I am satisfied that no proceedings under the Official Secrets Act could be properly instituted in respect of this statement.

While one newspaper stated that there were nine, the other gave no names. The "Daily Express" gave two. I think the right hon. Gentleman means that there is no offence. If this newspaper is correct and gives the names of the other 10, will there still be no breach of the Official Secrets Act?

The hon. Member suggested in the question that the newspaper, the "Daily Express," had said that Mr. Morrison and Mr. Alexander voted for the dole cuts in the Labour Cabinet. I pointed out in my answer that the "Daily Express" made no such statement and merely said that there were 20 Members of the Cabinet, of whom only nine had been' thanked by the "Daily Herald."

I think the right hon. Gentleman will admit that I sent him a cutting in which it states very definitely that Mr. Morrison and Mr. Alexander—

rose—

I only wanted to ask further, if this statement is true and the other names are given, will it be a breach of the Official Secrets Act?

I will consider any statement when my attention is called to it.

Is it not a fact that a complete fabrication cannot be an official secret?

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware of the circumstances under which the Japanese torpedo-boat of advanced design remained afloat after capsizing; and whether he is satisfied that His Majesty's ships are fitted with an equally efficient system of water-tight compartments?

As regards the first part of the question, I have no information beyond that appearing in the public Press. As regards the second part, there is no reason to suppose that His Majesty's ships are less efficient, in the matter of water-tight subdivision, than those of other Powers.

In view of the vessel being of advanced design, would the Noble Lord take steps to ascertain the reason for the ship capsizing?

If we get hold of any other particulars, I will let the hon. Member know.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty to what extent electric welding is being carried out in naval construction at present?

The extent to which electric welding is being used at present in British naval construction varies with the experience of the dockyard or firm concerned. It is the intention to increase the use of welding to the greatest practicable amount.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether his attention has been called to the fact that the flotilla destroyers of the Blue Fleet, in the recent naval manoeuvres, were ordered to proceed to Lagos for shelter owing to heavy weather, and took no part in the manoeuvres; that the greater part of these destroyers are over-age and long over-due for replacement; and whether steps are now being taken to substitute new and seaworthy craft which will be capable of defending the shores of the United Kingdom in heavy weather?

It is correct that most of the destroyers of the Blue Fleet returned to Lagos on 12th March, but it is not justifiable to suggest that these vessels are unseaworthy on that account. While every endeavour is made to render Fleet exercises as realistic as possible, my hon. Friend will appreciate that risks which would be taken in war are not always justified on manoeuvres. With regard to the last part of the question, one of these flotillas will be replaced in the Home Fleet by new construction vessels in the autumn of 1934 and another flotilla early in 1935, by which time only four of the destroyers concerned will still be serving.

Does not that statement show, as indicated in the question, that these vessels had to be sent into Lagos because they were overdue for replacement? I understand that none of the destroyers in the other fleet had to put into port at all, but were kept at sea in spite of the heavy weather.

I do not think that assumption is justified. It happened that these vessels had to go in the teeth of a very heavy gale. The hon. Gentleman will have seen from the papers the effect it had on liners of far greater tonnage. That, I think, answers his point.

asked the Prime Minister whether he has considered the memorial from the London Chamber of Commerce urging His Majesty's Government to take steps to reaffirm the independence of His Majesty's judges of Parliament and the executive, and to make it clear that their status is not on a par with that of His Majesty's civil servants; whether he is aware that a declaratory Bill, making provision as above is now before this House; and whether the Government will give facilities for its further stages?

I have read the resolution of the London Chamber of Commerce urging His Majesty's Government to make a declaration reaffirming the independence of the judges and that their status is not on a par with that of His Majesty's Civil Service. I am very glad once more to affirm on behalf of the Government the absolute independence of His Majesty's judges and their unique status among persons in His Majesty's service. I am advised that in these circumstances it is unnecessary to give facilities for the Bill introduced by my hon. Friend.

In view of the feeling throughout the country that this is not clear, would it not be better that the whole House of Commons should have an opportunity of expressing their opinion in the matter? This is a one Clause declaratory Bill which can be put through practically without any time being taken. It is only now not before us because it has been blocked by the Government Whips.

asked the Secretary for Mines if he will state the quantity of coal produced in Great Britain and South Wales, respectively, for the year 1913 and for each of the years 1920 to 1933; and the quantity separately for cargo and bunker and the price per ton f.o.b. of coal exported from Great Britain and South Wales, respectively, for the year 1913 and for each of the years 1920 to 1933?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply to a similar question given to him on 29th March, 1933, of which I am sending him a copy. Particulars

asked the Secretary for Mines if his Department has been informed of the accident at the Park Colliery, Ashton-in-Makerfield, on Wednesday last, which resulted in three deaths; whether he has any knowledge as to the cause of the accident; and, if not, whether he will ask for a detailed report from the Divisional Inspector of Mines on the matter?

I regret to say that there was an extensive fall of roof last Wednesday in a roadway at Park Colliery, Ashton-in-Makerfield, which resulted in the death of three workmen. I have already taken steps to obtain a detailed report in the matter from the Divisional Inspector, and a report of the proceedings at the inquest, which is being held to-day. The House will, I am sure, wish me to take this opportunity of expressing their deep sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

Will the Secretary for Mines direct the attention of the local inspector to the work which the men were doing at the time the accident took place, and also to the method of timbering in this kind of working place?

I will consider the matter.

asked the Minister of Health the total amount of the rates collected in London during the year 1933; and what was the total and percentage cost of collection?

The estimated amount of rates to be collected in London during the year ended 31st March, 1934, is £28,320,000. The total cost of collection for that year has not yet been ascertained. The cost of collection in the year ended 31st March, 1932, the latest year for which figures are available, was £198,545, which was equivalent to two-thirds of 1 per cent. of the rates collected during that year.

Can my hon. Friend say what proportion of the rates are collected directly from the tenants?

I am afraid I should have to have notice of that question.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether any police officers were dismissed from the service of the Lanarkshire Police Force as a result of the recent prosecution of police officers who were alleged to have abused Frank Hillhouse, Cambuslang, in a cell after arrest; whether any were removed from the Cambuslang area; and whether the Lanarkshire Police Force will be reorganised in order to restore public confidence?

The reply to the first part of the question is that no police officers have been dismissed. With regard to the second part, I am informed that two police officers have been removed from the Cambuslang area. As respects the third part, I am informed that the chief constable does not consider that the reorganisation of the police force is necessary.

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell me whether, arising out of that case, any policemen have been suspended?

No, Sir, they were not suspended.

Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been called to the sheriff's remarks at the trials, and is it not wise, seeing that the chief constable himself has not thought fit to reorganise the police force, that he should intervene, in view of the sheriff's very pointed remarks at the trial?

The judgment given by the sheriff was that the case was not proven, and, in view of that statement, I must accept it. As my hon. Friend well knows, the question of discipline in the police force rests entirely with the chief constable.

Oh, no!

Will the right hon. Gentleman make further inquiries in view of the fact that the two policemen—a, sergeant and a constable—are both out of the force at present, one working with a local joiner, and the other with a garage proprietor; will he make further inquiries to see that the correct information is supplied to the Souse.

Two police officers have been removed, but I am not certain from the information on inquiries which I made this morning whether they are the two police officers whose conduct was before the sheriff on the 18th January, but, as my hon. Friend wishes to know whether those were the two officers who were before the sheriff, I will make further inquiries. I did so this morning, but I did not do it in time.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the Scottish Milk Marketing Board, when requested to operate Section 13 (1) of the Agricultural Marketing Act, 1933, by introducing a consultant to consider a fair summer price for milk, announced their intention to inform any consultant appointed that, whatever his recommendations, they would not depart from the 2s. summer price they as a board had decided; and what action he proposes to take in such circumstances?

With regard to the first part of the question, I would remind the hon. Member that the Statute confers upon marketing boards a discretionary power as to the appointment of consultants and that the fixing of milk retail prices is a matter in the first instance for the Scottish Milk Marketing Board. With regard to the second part, I would refer to the answer given by me on Tuesday last in reply to a question by the hon. Member for Dumbarton Burghs (Mr. Kirkwood).

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that it is desirable to have such a dictatorial attitude with regard to persons who have received monopoly powers from the State?

I understand that the Milk Marketing Board decided that the appointment of a consultant would serve no useful purpose. As my hon. Friend knows, the interests of the consumers are safeguarded by the provisions of the 1931 Act.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that in England and Wales it is held that Sub-section (1) of Section 2 of the Cinematograph Act of 1909 empowers local licensing authorities to attach to cinema licences conditions as to the films which may be exhibited and as to the admission of children in certain cases, whereas in Scotland it is held that this Sub-section confers no such powers; and whether he will take steps to secure that there shall be uniform interpretation and administration of the same enactment throughout Great Britain?

I understand that in England and Wales the position is as stated in the first part of the question. The matter has not been the subject of judicial decision in Scotland, but my predecessors and I have been advised that it is unlikely that the Scottish courts would hold it competent to attach to cinema licences such conditions as are referred to in the question. As regards the last part of the question, in Scotland the interpretation of the law lies with the Scottish courts, and the administration of the licensing system rests with the Scottish licensing authorities under the Act of 1909. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of a circular recently issued by my Department, which shows the steps which I have taken in the matter.

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that it is satisfactory that the same Act of Parliament should be interpreted differently in Scotland from what it is in England and Wales in this matter?

Oh, yes, Sir. We always observe the right in Scotland to interpret the law in the light of Scottish knowledge and experience.

asked the Undersecretary of State for Air the number of members of the Committee on Civil Aviation under the chairmanship of Lord Gorell who are directors of companies in receipt of Air Ministry contracts; and the total value of the contracts received by each of such companies during the current financial year?

As regards the first part of the question, the committee, including the chairman, consists of seven members, of whom, according to my information, two are directors of companies holding Air Ministry contracts. One of these latter was nominated by the Society of British Aircraft Constructors; the other is a Member of this House. As regards the second part of the question, it would be contrary to established practice to disclose the value of the contracts placed with individual firms.

Will my right hon. Friend agree that these contracts are in both cases quite considerable?

I am afraid that I cannot answer that question, as I was asked for figures and not for a personal opinion.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office from what source commissioned ranks of the Royal Defence Corps will be recruited; and if regulations are to be issued governing these appointments?

Commissioned ranks of the Royal Defence Corps, Territorial Army, will be drawn from ex-officers of the Regular and Territorial Armies who are unfit for active service or over 45 and under 60 years of age. Officers in Class II of the Regular Army Reserve of Officers or Class II of the Territorial Army Reserve of Officers may also be selected with the approval of the Army Council. The officers will be selected by the Territorial Army County Associations, and when commissioned will form part of the Territorial Army and will be governed by the existing regulations for that force.

May I ask my hon. Friend whether, in view of the fact that officers of Class I of the Regular Army Reserve are automatically transferred to Class II because of their failure to report annually in writing to the War Office, such officers will be considered for appointment?

I shall want notice of that question.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to the inquest on Private Stanley Madin, aged 19 years, of the Northants Regiment; whether it is usual for any young soldier in His Majesty's Army to be placed under the control of the wife of any officer and made to perform domestic duties in that officer's home; and whether he will issue instructions that officers shall be required to provide in their homes their own domestic servants and that soldiers shall not be subject to military discipline for inefficiency in such domestic duties?

I have seen a newspaper report of the inquest. King's Regulations permit the employment of soldiers, when available, as officers' servants, as an indulgence. No soldier can be ordered to perform domestic duties, but he may do so voluntarily. He is not subject to military discipline for inefficiency in the performance of such duties. I see no reason for the issue of any instructions on the subject.

Do I understand from the hon. Gentleman that, in the event of an officer threatening to report such a servant for military discipline, the hon. Gentleman would take action to see that the man was dealt with properly?