asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the dangers to world peace caused by the vague definition of boundaries and national responsibilities in the vicinity of Mongolia and Manchukuo, he will consider the desirability of arranging for a joint conference between China and Japan, Russia, and other Powers interested in the Far East?

I hardly think that these large issues can be dealt with in answer to a question. My hon. and gallant Friend may rest assured that any influence that His Majesty's Government can exercise will be used in the manner that may seem most appropriate in the interests of peace.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) whether His Majesty's Government will take further steps to get the Soviet to pay outstanding British debts; and whether, now that the Soviet is a member of the League of Nations, His Majesty's Government will ask the League of Nations to act as arbiter in this matter?

(2) whether, in asking the Soviet Government to meet its debts to British nationals, His Majesty's Government will separate the obligations to private nationals from those which are of a public character, so that the former, which only amount to two or three hundred millions, may be paid at once?

The question of these debts and claims is engaging the serious attention of His Majesty's Government, but I am not in a position to state what further action will be taken in the matter.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is able to state what arms reached Bolivia and Paraguay during the period of the double embargo?

No, Sir. I regret that I have not sufficient information to reply to this question.

Will my right hon. Friend consider the advisability of asking for the information to see whether there are any arms in addition to those from Belgium and Norway about which representations have already been made?

These were case in which information reached us, not from Bolivia or Paraguay, but from other sources. My hon. Friend will, of course, see the difficulty of knowing where to address our inquiries.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received any information from His Majesty's Minister in China as to the general purport of the conversations now taking place between the representatives of the Chinese and Japanese Governments?

The reports I have received from His Majesty's Minister in China indicate that the conversations referred to deal in a general way with the broad question of Sino-Japanese relations. No more definite information as to their purport is at present available.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps he is taking to remove the impression in China that Great Britain is indifferent to her interests caused by the loss of China's seat on the Council of the League of Nations?

I should be surprised to learn that any such impression exists. The Assembly of the League did not declare China re-eligible, but His Majesty's Government have certainly given the Chinese Government no grounds for thinking that they are indifferent to their interests, and current questions continue to be discussed in the most friendly spirit between the two Governments.

Will my right hon. Friend take steps to discover how strong is the feeling among the authorities of Nanking that they are being neglected by the West and that it may possibly have repercussions on their associations with the East?

I am glad to have the opportunity of answering that question, and saying that, so far as this country is concerned, there is no ground for such a supposition at all.

Can my right hon. Friend say whether China has yet paid her share of the cost of maintaining the League?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in connection with the recent Anglo-French conversations, he is aware that although newspaper correspondents were officially assured on the Saturday evening, 2nd February, that nothing would be issued to the Press until the following evening, within two hours of such assurance the text of the agreement was issued generally by a French news agency; and whether he will arrange that, in connection with any future conference, Press communiqués are issued in such a way that British agencies will not again receive such unfair treatment?

The statement made to newspaper correspondents on Saturday evening, 2nd February, was made in accordance with the then state of the Anglo-French conversations. I regret that a foreign agency should have published an unofficial anticipation of the final communiqué, but His Majesty's Government cannot be held responsible in any way for an unauthorised statement which may have been pieced together from various sources. It was partly in view of this unfortunate incident that I thought it right, as I have already stated to the House, to broadcast an accurate statement regarding the official communiqué on the following Sunday evening. In reply to the last part of the question, I would point out to my hon. and gallant Friend that the official joint communiqué to the Press which alone gave a full and correct version of the conversations was issued to the British and foreign news agencies immediately after the final meeting, held on Sunday, 3rd February.

Is it not a fact that the report issued by the French agency was in essence accurate, while the reports published in British newspapers, as a result of lack of information, were inaccurate and misleading; and will he take steps in future conferences to see that British newspapers are furnished with accurate information at the same time as the newspapers of other countries?

I do not think it is correct to say that the anticipation published by the agency abroad was accurate, but in any case the most important thing is that when the British Government undertake not to make more than a certain statement they should keep their word.

Will my right hon. Friend see that the other parties in the conference also keep their word?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, during the recent Anglo-French discussion in London, any consideration was given to the question of the restoration of the Hapsburg dynasty; and whether he can give an assurance that no such restoration will be favoured by this country?

This question was not raised in the discussions to which the hon. Member refers, and I do not consider it necessary to make any further statement on the subject.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in connection with the dispute between Italy and Abyssinia, he has considered the report signed by Colonel Clifford and other members of the Anglo-Ethiopian boundary commission, stating that Italian officers in charge of military aircraft used threatening and intransigent behaviour; whether this report will be placed before the League of Nations' Council at its next session; and whether His Majesty's Government has made any direct representation to the Italian Government on the report?

The report of the joint Commission covering the events which followed their arrival at Walwal on the 23rd November was included as Annex 14 in the memorandum presented on the 17th January last to the Secretary-General of the League of Nations by the Ethiopian representative.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the present situation in the dispute between Italy and Abyssinia?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received any information regarding the Italian-Abyssinian dispute and, in particular, whether either country has appealed to the League of Nations?

In reply to inquiries addressed to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs in Rome, His Majesty's Ambassador in that capital has been informed that following certain recent incidents involving Italian casualties in the frontier zone between Italian Somaliland and Ethiopia, where it is stated that substantial Abyssinian forces have been concentrated, the Italian Government have, as a precautionary and defensive measure, mobilised in Italy two divisions aggregating some 30,000 men.

His Majesty's Government have been further informed that these precautionary measures in no way imply that it is the intention of the Italian Government to abandon their endeavours to seek an amicable settlement of their differences with Ethiopia by direct negotiations as foreshadowed by the letters addressed to the Secretary-General of the League of Nations by the Italian and Ethiopian representatives in Geneva on the 19th January last. His Majesty's Government have also been informed that there not only has been no advance on the part of the Italian forces from the line they have long occupied in the disputed area, but the Italian Minister in Addis Ababa has in fact been instructed to negotiate with the Abyssinian Government, and I would add that His Majesty's Minister in the Ethiopian capital has been authorised to use his good offices in promoting the success of these negotiations.

The Press reports current yesterday of an Italian ultimatum to Abyssinia have been officially denied. Protests have, however, been made in Addis Ababa following the recent frontier incidents and, in making these protests, the Italian Government have reserved their right to seek reparation.

I should say also that the Ethiopian Government state that they have lived up to the undertakings given in their letter addressed to the Secretary-General of the League of Nations, and that strict orders have been given to avoid further incidents.

So far as I am aware, no fresh appeal has been made by either side to the League of Nations.

Can my right hon. Friend say whether the direct negotiations arranged for at the last meeting of the Council have made any progress as yet?

My previous answer shows that our information is that the two parties are engaged in discussion. Of course, the Council took note of the letters addressed to the Secretary-General of the League and the pledges which they contained, on the basis of which these discussions have been arranged.

Do we understand from the answer that the action of His Majesty's representatives at Addis Ababa and Rome is due to the membership of this country of the League of Nations, and that we have no direct interest in the conflict?

My Noble Friend is quite right. Our position is that we stand in friendly relations with both these countries and naturally wish to do everything to secure that there is a peaceful conclusion.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether any ship of the new Gate class is to be called after the coastal towns of Margate and Ramsgate; and, if not, whether he will consider the suggestion?

The standard Boom Gate vessels now being built or projected are being named after the ancient gates of the City of London. A vessel which is being converted for service as a Gate vessel, however, has recently been given the name of "Westgate," which adjoins Margate in the constituency represented by my hon. Friend.

Can we have one named "Wavertree"?

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the potential value of the ships in the event of war, the Admiralty was con- sulted before the sale of the Red Star ships "Pennland" and "Western-land" to foreign ownership?

Yes, Sir, the Admiralty were consulted in March, 1934, and consented to the termination of agreements with the owners of these ships, which provided for the permission of His Majesty's Government being obtained before the ships could be sold to foreign buyers.

How many of the crews were trained for the Naval Reserve?

I should have to have notice of that question.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will publish the proposals sent from the Colonial Office to the Governor of Hong Kong on the subject of mui-tsai and kindred matters?

Yes, Sir. It is the intention that the report of the committee, which will include the proposals mentioned, should be published in due course.

May I ask when we may expect to see it?

When the report of the committee is published.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air (1) what night-bomber squadrons have been re-equipped recently and with what type of machine; and when was the specification for the new type issued;

(2) how many night-bombing squadrons are to be left unequipped with more modern machines; and when was the specification for their present equipment issued;

(3) whether he can give an assurance that, in the formation of new night-bombing squadrons, they will be equipped only with modern machines?

Two squadrons were re-equipped with Heyfords last year and the year before to a specification issued in November, 1932, and a third is in process of being reequipped with Heyfords to a revised specification dated November, 1934. No night-bombing squadrons are to be left unequipped with more modern machines, and the second part of this question does not therefore arise. Under the policy of progressive re-armament which is in force, the aircraft of each squadron in turn are replaced by new types. New purchases will be confined to aircraft of the latest types, but I cannot give an assurance that the latest aircraft will always be allocated to new squadrons in preference to existing units.

May I ask, in view of the very great cost of replacing fighting machines, whether my right hon. Friend is satisfied that this very old-fashioned equipment for night bombing is sufficient?

I do not think that the latest 1934 specifications are at all old-fashioned.

Will my right hon. Friend tell me why he does not get on with this work rather more swiftly?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what are the special steps that have been taken to provide the increased quantity of materiel for the expanding Air Force?

All preparations are in hand to ensure that the necessary equipment will be available to keep pace with the formation of new squadrons. A substantial increase in the financial provision for the supply of aircraft and engines will, of course, be required in 1935 and this will be reflected in the Estimates which will shortly be presented to the House.

May I ask for rather more details? The reply is very general.

I do not think I can give more details in answer to a question, but no time is being lost.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made up to date with the construction or trials of the flying boat or boats designed for use on the projected trans-Atlantic air service via the Azores and Bermuda in conjunction with Pan-American Airways; and whether, in view of the fact that this service cannot be commenced until both parties are ready to operate, although the Americans are now ready, he will take steps to ensure that all possible expedition is used in respect of the British part of the undertaking?

I understand that an order for the construction of a flying boat suitable for use on the Bermuda—New York section has beenfl placed by Imperial Airways. Preparations for British participation in the project are being expedited so far as possible, but my hon. and gallant Friend is under a misapprehension in suggesting that the United States company is now ready to operate a trans-Atlantic service via the Azores and Bermuda.

Is it not a fact that the Americans feel that we have let them down badly by not being ready to start with them?

I do not think so, because a great deal of groundwork and organisation has to be done, including the new airport at Bermuda, which has not yet been begun by the Bermudian Government; also permission has to be obtained from the Portuguese authorities to use the Azores.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he can make any statement as to when the accepted recommendations of the Gorell Committee on civil aviation are likely to be brought into force; and what legislation, if any, will be required for this purpose?

Effect has already been given administratively to certain of the minor recommendations of the Committee. As my hon. and gallant Friend will be aware, the major recommendations of policy involve consultation with outside interests and, in one important case, the submission to the Air Ministry by those interests of concrete proposals. I am unable, therefore, to give any definite date, but am hopeful that it may be possible to introduce the necessary legislation this Session, if the current pressure on Parliamentary time permits.

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that progress is being made in the negotiations with these outside bodies?

I hope, as I say, that we shall be able to get a decision very shortly.

Will my right hon. Friend be in a position soon to make a statement on the constitution of the new Air Registration Board suggested?

I hope very soon, but, as I say, that depends on outside interests.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether his Department are assisting the City Corporation in their attempt to find a suitable airport in or near the City of London?

Yes, Sir, the Air Ministry has already furnished advice to the City Corporation in this matter, and will be happy to give further assistance, should the corporation so desire, in considering the results of any inspection of sites which may now be undertaken.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he can yet make any statement as to the forthcoming Jubilee review of the Royal Air Force; and if he will give an assurance that all possible facilities will be available for viewing by the public?

The general programme already announced in the Press includes a review of various units of the Royal Air Force by His Majesty at Mildenhall and Duxford on Saturday, 6th July. The question of the facilities which can be made available for the general public is under consideration.

Can my right hon. Friend give an assurance that the Air Ministry will do everything possible to let as many of the public as possible see the review?

Yes, but in view of the great number of aircraft that will be engaged it requires very careful consideration.

Will my right hon. Friend arrange, as on the occasion of the Mildenhall to Melbourne air race, for the public enclosures to be on the south and east sides of the aerodrome, which can be approached by alternative routes?

I will consider that point.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether any decision has yet been taken as to what part, if any, the Territorial Army is to take in the forthcoming Jubilee celebrations?

The programme of celebrations for His Majesty's Silver Jubilee has only just been announced, and it will necessarily take some little time to make the detailed arrangements, but I can assure my hon. Friend that the importance of the Territorial Army taking part in the celebrations will not be overlooked.

Will my right hon. Friend be in a position to make an announcement by the time that the Estimates for his Department are introduced?

Yes, Sir, I hope so—probably before that time.

Has any decision been come to yet with regard to the participation, or otherwise, of cadets in these celebrations?

No decision has been come to yet, but here again they will not be overlooked.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether it is intended to grant an extra day's pay to ex-service men in receipt of disability pensions on 6th May to enable them to celebrate His Majesty's Jubilee?

No, Sir.

Does that mean that it is intended to take no steps to enable disabled men to participate?

The question does not refer to disabled men but to ex-service men in general. We have every sympathy with them, but there is no reason why they should be singled out for special treatment.

The hon. Gentleman will see that the question refers to ex-service men in receipt of disability pensions.

These people have their pensions, and, if an extra day's payment were given, it would be so absurd and so small a sum that it would not enable them in any way to celebrate the day, and it would imply an enormous amount of extra work if it were spread over the whole community of pensioners.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that during the six months ended 30th September last 134 accidents were recorded in the Chiswick High Road; that of these 21 occurred within 200 feet of the junction with Turnham Green Terrace; and that the number of accidents at this junction is 50 per cent. more than at any other important junction in this road; and whether, in view of these facts, he is prepared to make a grant towards the improvement of this point?

Yes, Sir, and with a view to improving the position immediately I am to-day issuing a grant from the Road Fund towards the cost of widening Turnham Green Terrace. A grant is also being made towards the cost of providing traffic control signals at the junction of Chiswick High Road and Turnham Green Terrace.

Has my hon. Friend made inquiries to find out the reason for all these accidents at this particular spot?

Yes, I have made full inquiries and taken certain action, of which this is an example.

Yes, but what is the reason for these accidents?

Is not the Minister aware that the accidents take place on a broad main highway and at mid-day, and are they not due to the speed of callous motorists?

I have been asked whether I would improve a certain junction, and my answer is "Yes, immediately."

Can my right hon. Friend say whether these accidents are due to speed or not?

Is it not true to say that a good many of these accidents are attributable to the inefficiency of the machines on the road?

asked the Minister of Transport (1) whether he will look into the whole question of the uncontrolled level crossings between Cambridge and London to see that they are guarded in an efficient manner, as the inhabitants in places like Sawbridgeworth who use these crossings are apprehensive as to their safety while these crossings remain uncontrolled;

(2) in connection with the recent railway accident at the level-crossing at Wormley, Hertfordshire, whether he is aware that where a level-crossing exists on an occupation road that has not been dedicated to the public and which is used for public vehicular traffic to the knowledge of the railway company, the railway company is under duty to take proper precautions for the safety of persons using the crossing; and what he proposes to do to make the North Eastern Railway Company discharge their duty in the interests of the safety of the public?

I am advised that the legal position is that persons entitled to use occupation crossings are, in the absence of negligence on the part of the railway company, responsible for their own safety. I am sending the hon. and gallant Member a copy of the report of the inquiry into the Wormley accident, from which he will see that the Inspecting Officer makes certain recommendations both with regard to the particular crossing concerned, and also with regard to other crossings.

Does not the Minister really think it is about time we had a temperance test for drivers?

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the necessity for better communication between the North-east and West of Scotland and the widespread demand which exists for it, he will be prepared to give a grant for the construction of a road to connect Braemar with Kingussie through Glenfeshie and for the reconstruction of roads which would be necessary to complete the scheme?

I have invited highway authorities to submit schemes with which they are prepared to proceed immediately, and in the event of the appropriate highway authorities sending me definite proposals for constructing this road, I will give them my immediate attention.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has considered bringing in a regulation to make it illegal to park a motor-car at the side of the road facing traffic except where one-side-only parking is enforced?

I propose, with the concurrence of Parliament, to strengthen the provision of the highway code which at present advises drivers not to leave their vehicles at night facing the wrong way unless the road is sufficiently lighted to prevent other users of the road being misled. I would like to take this opportunity of calling public attention to the fact that it is already an offence to leave a vehicle in a position likely to cause danger to other persons.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will take powers to require public vehicles registered before January, 1932, to have safety glass fitted to their windscreens or windows facing to the front; what is the present practice with regard to securing that safety glass will be fitted to the other windows in public vehicles apart from windscreens and windows facing to the front; and whether, in view of the desirability that all windows in public vehicles should be fitted with safety glass, he will take powers to see that this is done at an early date?

Regulations made in 1931 provide that all motor vehicles registered on or before 1st January, 1932, shall be fitted with safety glass, on all windows and windscreens facing to the front, by the 1st January, 1937, and as the industry has been informed that it will have until this date to make these expensive alterations I should not feel justified on the evidence before me in altering the arrangement now. Side windows are less liable to fracture in an accident than front windows, and the regulations do not require safety glass to be fitted to these, ordinary glass being more easily breakable to release passengers if the doors become jammed in an accident.

While that is no doubt reasonable with regard to private vehicles, surely public vehicles, which have great privileges in using the public thoroughfares and making profits out of the passengers, ought to be made as safe as possible for the passengers who use them; is the hon. Gentleman also aware that in the recent accident at Lewisham, to which I drew his attention, many of the passengers were seriously cut by broken glass?

Yes, Sir. I have every sympathy with what my hon. Friend says, but my predecessor arranged to give the trade a certain notice. The fitting of this safety glass is very expensive, and it has an effect upon the weight of the vehicle, sometimes bringing it over the permissible weight, and it would be an extreme burden upon the industry were I suddenly to change the arrangement made by my predecessor.

asked the Minister of Transport what is the present position with regard to the new draft of the Highway Code; to what interested bodies the draft has been sub- mitted before its completion; and whether he has in view any arrangements which will enable it to be supplied to pedestrians and drivers of horse-drawn vehicles and cyclists as well as to motorists?

I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a list of the 36 bodies who have been consulted on the Highway Code. I shall propose to make arrangements for its widest possible circulation when it has been approved by Parliament.

Will the hon. Gentleman consider circulating a draft of this code to Members of Parliament in order that we may have an opportunity of discussing it?

Yes, Sir; I propose to lay a copy of the draft, and I shall be glad to be of any assistance I can.

Following is the list:

Organisations to whom the new draft of the Highway Code was circulated.

County Councils' Association.

Association of Municipal Corporations.

Metropolitan Boroughs' Standing Joint Committee.

Urban District Councils' Association.

Rural District Councils' Association.

Association of County Councils in Scotland.

Convention of Royal Burghs in Scotland.

The London County Council.

The Corporation of City of London.

Transport and General Workers' Union.

National Union of Railwaymen.

The British Road Federation, Limited.

Motor Legislation Committee.

National Farmers' Union.

Royal Agricultural Society.

National Horse Association of Great Britain.

Cyclists' Touring Club.

National Cyclists' Union.

British Cycle and Motor Cycle Manufacturers' and Traders' Union, Limited.

Pedestrians' Association.

Railway Companies' Association.

Municipal Tramways (and Transport) Association.

Tramways, Light Railways (and Transport) Association.

Scottish Tramways and Transport Association.

London Passenger Transport Board.

National "Safety First" Association.

"Order of the Road."

Institute of Transport.

The Magistrates' Association.

The Coroners' Society of England.

The London County Coroners' Association.

The Roads Improvement Association.

Accident Offices' Association.

Lloyds Motor Underwriters' Association.

Two "non-tariff" Insurance Companies.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will be willing to consider giving financial assistance towards the cost involved in improvements or extensions of some of the streets in Manchester?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he can give any information as to the recent visit to this country of a Chinese transport mission led by Mr. Yu Fei-peng, vice-minister of communications; by what Minister the mission was received; and whether any results are expected to accrue from it?

Yes, Sir. The mission to which my hon. Friend refers arrived in this country on 14th November last with the object of studying civil and military transport. The head of the mission was received by myself. Full arrangements were made for the mission to study all aspects of communications and transport, civil and military, in this country, including the railways, shipping, posts, telephones, and telegraphs, and also the B.B.C. The mission has now left this country. I understand that similar technical studies are being carried out on the Continent. As regards the results achieved, the mission will have been enabled to gain an insight into British methods of transport and the value of British material and return to their country with an appreciation of British enterprise in this sphere.

asked the Minister of Transport what is the present position with regard to the erection of a bridge across the West London Exten- sion Railway, whereby the existing dead-end of Western Avenue at Wood Lane may be removed?

As soon as the negotiations now proceeding between the railway companies and the London County Council are concluded I hope it will be possible to commence construction.

Is the Minister aware of the great urgency of this matter, as this dead-end in Wood Lane is entirely responsible for the great congestion at Netting Hill Gate?

Yes, Sir. I hope that my answer shows that I appreciate that point.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he would be prepared to consider applications from local authorities for the experimental extension of the silence zones in their own areas to the whole of the 24 hours.

Yes, Sir. I am prepared to give favourable consideration to any applications from local authorities for the experimental extension of the silence zones in their own areas to the whole of the 24 hours.

Would the hon. Gentleman consider experimenting on the same lines in London?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will take steps, by legislation or otherwise, to enable an A-licence issued just prior to the death of the licensee to be transferred to the widow without full payment being made in respect of the transfer of the licence?

I will certainly, in connection with any opportunity for amending legislation, give weight to my hon. Friend's suggestion. In the meanwhile I may perhaps remind him that the fee for these licences is only 15s. a vehicle a year.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he will now have Albert Gate re-opened in order to diminish the congestion of traffic at Hyde Park Corner, which has increased during the winter and will get worse with the growing volume of traffic in the spring and summer?

I have been in communication with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department, and I have agreed that before a final decision is made, the experiment of keeping Albert Gate closed should be continued for a further period.

In view of the fact that this causes congestion at Hyde Park Corner, will my right hon. Friend collaborate with the Minister of Transport and make an opening into the Park opposite Sloane Street instead of as at present, at Albert Gate?

In this matter I do whatever the police, who are the traffic authorities, ask. I am informed that the shutting of Albert Gate has not increased congestion at Hyde Park Corner. Any suggestion which is given to me for improving traffic in that part of London I will take immediately into consideration.

Are we to understand that the closing of one route does not increase congestion at another route?

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, during the months Albert Gate has been closed, the police report any improvement of traffic in the centre of Knightsbridge to make up for the increased congestion at both the eastern and western ends, especially at Hyde Park Corner; and whether he will now take steps to re-open Albert Gate?

The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis informs me that the closing of Albert Gate has resulted in a marked improvement in the traffic conditions in Knightsbridge, Sloane Street and Brompton Road. There has been a slight increase in traffic at certain times of the day at Hyde Park Corner, but I understand that this cannot be said to be wholly or even mainly attributable to the closing of the Gate, since there has been a progressive increase at this point over a period of years. In any event police observation shows that the delays at Hyde Park Corner on account of this additional traffic are by no means so great as those experienced in Knightsbridge, Sloane Street and Brompton Road, when the Albert Gate was open. In these circumstances the Commissioner is of the opinion—in which I concur—that the experiment of keeping the Gate closed should be continued.

Do I understand that the Albert Gate is going to be permanently closed, and will the right hon. Gentleman make a survey at special hours of the day especially in the evening, in order to see whether congestion has not really been increased at Hyde Park Gate?

In answer to the first part of the question, it is an experiment, and it will depend upon the result of the experiment whether it will be permanently closed or not. All the circumstances are being closely watched, and, when we are able to report and decide, the House will be informed.

If the closing of one gate is good, would it not be helpful to close three or four more?

asked the Postmaster-General whether he has given consideration to the establishment of a telephone exchange at banks; and, if so, with what result?

I am glad to say that a sufficient number of applications has now been received to justify service being given at normal tariff rentals to subscribers in the banks area. The service will be provided from an adjoining exchange until the conditions make it desirable to open a local exchange.

asked the First Commissioner of Works what proposals are contemplated for improving the entrance and making suitable gates at the Tower of London; and whether the designs have the approval of the Royal Fine Arts Commission?

The design is now being prepared for an improved entrance with wrought iron gates to the Tower of London. As the hon. and gallant Member knows, the present entrance leaves much to be desired. The design when ready will be submitted to the Royal Fine Arts Commission.

Are the Treasury making a suitable grant towards this expenditure?

I think the expenditure will be down as part of the Estimate for my Department.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the cost of able-bodied relief for the years ending May, 1931, 1933 and 1934; what is the anticipated cost for the year ending May, 1935, in Scotland; whether he is aware that most of this financial burden is borne by the local authorities in the distressed areas of central Scotland; and what action he intends to take to assist them in their financial difficulties?

The cost of able-bodied relief in Scotland for the years ending 15th May, 1931, 1933 and 1934 was £653,107, £1,512,259 and £2,059,665 respectively. With regard to the anticipated cost for the current financial year, no reliable estimate can be given, but the cost up to the 15th January, the latest date available, was £1,671,357. The answer to the third part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the last part, I would refer the hon. Member to the statement made last night by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he intends to hold an inquiry into the administration of Peterhead Prison?

The inquiry now proceeding includes investigation into the existing arrangements for the inspection of all Scottish prisons including Peterhead. When I have received the report I shall consider whether any further inquiries are necessary.

Is it not the case that the right hon. Gentleman promised an inquiry into the administration of Peterhead at the time that he decided that the chains had to be taken from Ramensky, the prisoner who had been punished in that way?

Oh, no, Sir. I have no recollection of making any such promise or of giving any such undertaking. If the hon. Member will call my attention to any words of mine, either in a letter or in this House, which convey that impression, I shall certainly be glad to look into it forthwith.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he was aware that, when on the question concerning Barlinnie Prison he made an announcement that he was setting up an inquiry into the administration of Scottish prisons, stated at its face value, it implied an inquiry into the administration of Peterhead; and, as the discipline in this prison is certainly worse than that in any other prison of which we know, I would ask the right hon. Gentleman to look back on the promise he made at that date?

I think that the hon. Member is confusing two things. I gave an undertaking to review the existing prison regulations, which I am presently doing, but the question of the hon. Member is directed to the whole question of administration. There is a big difference between the whole administration of Scottish prisons and the particular prison regulations which govern day-to-day management. I have already started an inquiry into the whole question of prison regulations.

Do I understand that the right hon. Gentleman is inquiring into the regulations as applied to Peterhead Prison as well as to other prisons?

Oh, yes.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, having now had twelve months to consider the question of a bounty on cotton exports, he can, in view of the continuing amount of unemployment, make some favourable announcement?

As my right hon. Friend has already indicated in previous replies to my hon. Friend, he does not see his way to contemplate the institution of a system of bounty on cotton exports.

Shall I have an opportunity of putting this question down again?

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the necessary Order for a Census of Production in 1935 will be laid before the House; and whether he will introduce legislation, in collaboration with the Minister of Labour, to amend Section 3 (1) of the Census of Production Act, 1906, whereby the Board of Trade are precluded from requiring compulsory statements of the amount of wages paid?

The Order for a Census of Production in respect of the year 1935 was laid before the House on the 12th December. As regards the last part of the question I regret that for the time being I can add nothing to my previous reply of the 3rd December last.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give the respective balances of trade with all countries with which agreements have been negotiated since the dates thereof up to the nearest convenient time?

I am having a statement prepared, which I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT as soon as possible.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether any applications for increased duty have been received from British industries affected by trade treaties with foreign countries?

I am informed that inquiries of this nature have been received by the Import Duties Advisory Committee, but that it is the practice of that body to point out that no useful purpose will be served by making such applications.

May I ask my hon. Friend whether the Import Duties Advisory Committee communicates with the Board of Trade or with his Department such instances, so that they may be informed as to the harsh way that, from time to time the system is working?

It is not the duty of the Import Duties Advisory Committee to advise us of the applications they have received, and it is not in their power to go against treaties which have been entered into by His Majesty's Government.

My hon. Friend does not quite understand my question. Do they communicate with the Department of my hon. Friend so that his Department may be aware of the circumstances which have arisen as the result of trade agreements?

I must have notice of that question.

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now state the position with regard to the proposed Royal Commission on the manufacture of, and traffic in, arms; whether a chairman has yet been found; who will constitute the commission; and when it will commence its investigation?

I expect to be able to make a statement at a very early date as to the composition and terms of reference of the proposed Royal Commission.

Does the Prime Minister expect to have the report of this commission in the lifetime of the present Government?

Oh, certainly.

Is there an able, competent and serious woman who could serve on the commission, and is it not possible to put her on the commission at the earliest possible moment, for a change?

Perhaps the Noble Lady will wait for the announcement, which will be very soon, and, if she will look at the list, I think she will find it satisfactory.

For a Government that has not a woman in it I am a bit suspicious.

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement regarding the proposed change in the Lieutenancy of Flintshire?

I am not aware of any change in the appointment of the Lord-Lieutenancy of Flintshire.

Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been drawn to the statement issued in the Press that Mr. James Platt was to be appointed Lord Lieutenant of Flintshire in the following year, and that he had a letter from one of His Majesty's Ministers confirming that?

I have seen no letter. I am the Minister solely responsible for transactions like this, and my answer is the answer I have just given.

Has the right hon. Gentleman had in contemplation before this question was put on the Paper, any change in the Lieutenancy of Flintshire?

I have answered that.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is satisfied that the recent amendments to the district schemes under the Coal Mines Act, 1930, have succeeded, or are proving reasonably successful, in preventing the wholesale evasions of the terms of that Act that have been taking place for so long, particularly in the export districts?

The amendments have only been in force for six weeks, and that is far too short a time on which to base any judgment of their effect.

Is the hon. Gentleman convinced that these evasions are not taking place, or that they are still taking place? If he imagines that they are still taking place, will he not consider taking the course of having independent chairmen of the district boards appointed?

I propose to call for a report on the working of the various schemes in due course.

Can the hon. Gentleman give me an answer to the second part of my supplementary question, as to whether he will consider the appointment of independent chairmen?

That is a particular point which really does not arise out of the question on the Paper.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he can give the House any information regarding the system, commonly known in the coal trade as del credeo, whereby merchants are appointed as agents for the sale of coal on condition that they do not sell at less than the minimum price fixed under the Coal Mines Act, 1930?

I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to "del credere" agencies. They provide that the agent guarantees to his principal the due payment or performance by those with whom he deals on credit as agent. The agent becomes liable to his principal upon failure of the debtor to pay. Under the ordinary type of agency, the coalowner is responsible for the action of the agent; therefore, any sale by an agent at below a minimum price renders the coalowner liable to penalties under the terms of the district scheme.

Has any case been brought to the notice of the hon. Gentleman where such liability has been incurred, or where such evasion has occurred?

I should require notice of a question of that kind.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has had any further communication with the Miners' Federation with regard to over- time in pits; and if he proposes to have any similar investigations to those he had in Lancashire in any other part of the British coalfield?

The answer to the first part of the question is, No. With regard to the second part, a special investigation is now being carried out in Scotland, and will, I hope, be completed by the end of next month. This district was selected at the request of the Mine-workers' Federation.

asked the Secretary for Mines what position Lord Hyndley holds in his Department; what salary he receives, if any; and with what firms dealing directly or indirectly with the production or sale of coal he is connected, and in what capacity?

I am obliged to my hon. Friend for providing me with an opportunity of informing the House of the invaluable services which Lord Hyndley is good enough to give to the Mines Department in an entirely voluntary capacity. He has been Commercial Adviser, under successive Governments, for the last 14 years. I hope that the Department and the Government will long continue to have the advantage of the impartial and disinterested advice on all commercial coal trade matters which it has been the good fortune of successive Ministers to receive at all times from him. As regards the latter part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the usual reference books.

Will the Minister answer the latter part of the question?

I have answered it.

May I be allowed to point out—

No.

On a point of Order. I am not clear about the Minister's answer, and I wanted to ask whether he would make clear the latter part of the question.

Not again.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will make inquiry as to the numbers of members of the paper-maker and messenger grades who are members of the Association of Ex-service Civil Servants, with a view to the consideration of official recognition of that association in any negotiations concerning the grades in question?

No, Sir. In connection with a recent application by this association it was found that the membership claimed was too small to justify the grant of joint recognition; but the association was informed that it would be open to them to apply again for recognition in the event of a considerable increase of membership in the grades in question.

asked the Minister of Health whether he can yet state whether it is proposed to make an Order-in-Council, under the Act of 1920, for a census in 1936; and, if so, whether he will introduce legislation requiring local authorities to permit census service on the part of their officials?

In answer to the first question the position is that the Government have decided, after careful consideration, that there are not sufficient grounds for taking a census in 1936. In these circumstances, the second question does not arise.

asked the Minister of Health (1) what instructions have been issued to local authorities by his Department to the effect that before proceeding with any further house building the authorities should see that existing corporation houses are fully and properly occupied; whether such instructions have been forwarded to the Sheffield city corporation housing estates committee; and to what extent such instructions have been carried out;

(2) what instructions he has issued to local authorities in regard to imposing a means test upon applicants for houses owned and erected by the authorities; and what is the maximum income allowed for persons occupying four-, five-, and six-roomed houses, respectively?

The attention of local authorities has from time to time been drawn to the importance of the selection of tenants in a manner which will avoid any abuse of State and rate contributions and the existence of unoccupied municipal houses would obviously be a factor to be considered by a corporation in preparing proposals for further building and by the Minister in considering those proposals. On neither of these matters, however, has my right hon. Friend issued, or indeed has he any power to issue, instructions. The remaining parts of the questions therefore do not arise.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether or not it is the opinion of the Ministry that a general comb-out of corporation estates is now advisable, and whether or not special restrictions can be imposed by his Department as to the application of a means test by those corporations to applicants for corporation houses?

I cannot answer my hon. Friend's question as to what is the opinion of my Department. I can only say that the latest information on this subject was given by myself to my hon. Friend a few months ago.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that only two days ago information was published in the Press to the effect that the Minister had issued instructions for comb-out operations, and also for the application of a means test to applicants for corporation houses? Can he say whether that applies to all estates?