asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether his attention has been drawn to the recent formation of a company called Compensation Brokers, Limited; and whether, seeing that the activities of this company will infringe or assist in evading the provisions of Standstill and other Agreements between Germany and this country, he will take steps to safeguard British interests;

(2) whether, in view of the importance of securing the payment of overdue commercial debts by banks or traders in Germany to British banks or traders, he will introduce legislation to control the operations of companies having as their object the facilitation of trade between the two countries without making provision for the liquidation of such debts?

I understand that the object of the newly-formed company referred to by the hon. Member is to act as a brokerage concern in regard to barter transactions for the supply of goods from Germany and other European countries with restricted exchanges to parts of the British Empire other than the United Kingdom in exchange for raw materials. The activities of the company will in no way affect the provisions of the Anglo-German Payments Agreement of 1st November, 1934, nor those of the Standstill and other Agreements between Germany and creditors in the United Kingdom, and the promoters undertook to regulate their business in such a way as to safeguard United Kingdom interests and to take steps to ensure that goods supplied under the scheme should not be such as could be supplied by United Kingdom industries. In the circumstances no action appears to be called for on the part of His Majesty's Government.

Have the Government approved the policy of this company, and will the Parliamentary Secretary be good enough to give a definite answer "Yes" or "No"?

I have stated that, as far as I can see, the objects of the company do not in any way conflict with any provisions that the Government have made.

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that the promoters of this scheme will carry out the undertakings which they have given to his Department?

I have no reason to be other than satisfied so far. I need hardly say that the transactions of a barter character are such as will require, and will secure, constant supervision.

May not this arrangement affect some of the re-export trade which passes through this country, possibly from our Dominions to Germany?

Not as far as we know at present, but if the hon. Member has any information to the contrary, I shall be glad to receive it.

Is there any safeguard in this arrangement against the supply to Germany of additional materials suitable for making armaments?

I think so.

Is that so?

The hon. Member has asked a question a long way removed from anything upon the Paper, and I can, obviously, only give the information in my possession. As far as I understand, the material supplied will be raw material, and not of the character to which the hon. Gentleman referred.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the position as regards the short-term credits owing by Germany to this country; and whether, in view of the £46,000,000 export surplus in Germany's trade balance, steps are being taken by His Majesty's Government to remind Germany of this obligation?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to similar questions on 26th January.

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the German Government now have power to requisition the funds at the disposal of German citizens abroad, and will he not therefore consider that in the negotiations which are now going on?

I think that, if the hon. Member will look at the answer that I gave on the occasion to which I refer, he will see that that matter is covered by that answer.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the possibility in the near future of all the principal film-producing companies in this country passing into American hands; and what action he is taking in the matter?

I have received no information regarding the possibility referred to by the hon. Member.

Will the hon. Gentleman be good enough to make some inquiries, because there is a real possibility of the four principal companies in this country passing into American hands?

That is not in accordance with my information.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that American films are very much better than the British?

No.

The Minister is very well informed about the British film industry.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received the observations from the trade organisations on the report on the Cinema Films Act; and, in view of the present unsettled state of the cinema industry, will he give particulars of when it is proposed to introduce legislation to amend the Cinematograph Films Act, 1927?

Observations on the report of the Departmental Committee on Films have been received from the various sections of the industry and are being considered. I understand that further observations may be expected. As regards the last part of the question, I am unable to add anything to the answer which I gave on 8th December to the hon. Member for East Dorset (Mr. Hall-Caine).

Is the Minister aware that the delay in the decision of the Government upon this very urgent matter is causing ruin to many of the British film-producing companies; and will he try to facilitate the decision of the Government?

I am not aware of anything of the sort, but I am aware that the different sections of the film industry have different views on every topic.

Has the hon. Gentleman noticed lately that many of the film-producing companies have been going into liquidation?

asked the President of the Board of Trade with what countries there are treaties or trade agreements which prevent quantitative restriction of import of eggs and / or increased tariff on imported eggs; the date on which those treaties or trade agreements can be denounced; and whether he is considering such denunciation in all or any cases?

asked the President of the Board of Trade which of the trade agreements now in force prevent the Government from taking measures to help the poultry industry, either by tariffs or restriction of imports; and whether he proposes to take immediate steps to abolish these agreements?

The imposition of increased import duties on eggs in shell is precluded by the trade agreements with Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland and Sweden. The agreement with Denmark can be denounced at any time after four months' prior notice, the other agreements after six months' notice. No treaty or trade agreement precludes unconditionally the quantitative regulation of imports of eggs. The position of the poultry industry will receive full consideration during the negotiations for a renewal of these agreements, which it is hoped may take place this year.

Will not the hon. Member immediately take steps to denounce these Agreements?

While thanking my hon. Friend for his reply, may I ask him whether he has had any representations from poultry keepers as to their unhappy position, as most Members of Parliament have had; and whether he has been able to reassure them that the Government mean to help them to preserve their industry?

The Department has received a number of representations such as those to which the hon. and gallant Member referred. The whole matter is closely engaging the attention of the Department.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary bear in mind, in reference to the question of Denmark, that Denmark is one of our best customers for coal, and that some people in the coal areas are in a worse position than the poultry keepers?

Will the Minister immediately take steps to denounce these Treaties, so that something can be done to help the poultry industry?

I do not think that the right way to negotiate a commercial treaty is to denounce existing treaties. There are other subjects than the importation of eggs which require consideration. The hon. and gallant Member will, perhaps, be satisfied with the assurance that the matter is being very closely considered.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether at any time within the last six months the Government have made any suggestions to those countries normally exporting eggs to Great Britain that their consignments should be reduced; and whether, in that case, he can state the number and nature of the replies received?

No such suggestions have been made within the period named.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the period over which the various nations normally importing eggs into this country agreed voluntarily to restrict their imports; what was the extent of this restriction; and what were the circumstances under which this voluntary effort came to an end?

Up to 30th September, 1934, there was a standstill arrangement on the basis of imports during the corresponding period of 1933. Subsequent arrangements provided for small reductions of varying amounts in total imports, but for the last quarter of 1935 there was a reversion to the standstill arrangement. The requests were not complied with in all cases, and no request was made to foreign countries after the end of 1935, since by that time the Reorganisation Commissions for Eggs and Poultry had reported and had not recommended the introduction of a general system of quantitative regulation of imports of eggs.

Am I to understand that the Department has done nothing for the last 18 months to help the poultry producer? Is the hon. Member aware that many poultry producers are faced with bankruptcy? What measures does he propose to take?

I hope the hon. Member will not understand anything of the kind. What happened was this. An arrangement for voluntary control was made to regulate the market pending a report by the Commission. That Commission having reported, not in the sense which the hon. Member desires, there is nothing further to do for the moment.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the result of ending the voluntary restriction has been an increase in the imports of eggs of 6,800,000, and will he consider a renewal of the voluntary restriction in order that this industry may be saved?

That is a matter which, in the first instance, must be addressed to the Minister for Agriculture.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how long the application of the National Farmers' Union and the Poultry Keepers' Association for an increased duty on imported eggs has been before the Import Duties Advisory Committee; and when a report may be expected?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the grave conditions at present existing in the egg and poultry industry, he will consider asking the Import Duties Advisory Committee to expedite the hearing and determination of the application which has been made to them for an increased duty on foreign imported eggs?

The application was lodged on 24th September last. I am not able to say when a conclusion will be reached in the matter, but, in view of the position under certain trade agreements, no action in the way of an increase of duty could become effective for some time to come, and in these circumstances I do not think any useful purpose would be served by taking the action suggested by my hon. Friend the Member for Reigate (Mr. Touche).

Would it not help the Government to make up their minds if they had the advice of the Advisory Committee on this matter?

Before my right hon. Friend replies, is it not a fact that the House has repeatedly been told that no action can be taken because of these treaties, and would it not be desirable, in order that these negotiations should take place, that preliminary notice of denunciation should be given?

Would the promotion of a marketing scheme enable the Government to take steps to restrict the importation of eggs either under the auspices of the reorganisation commission or otherwise?

If the Chancellor of the Exchequer cannot take action on imports, can he take the taxes off the feeding-stuffs of these people?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the export from this country of Oriental carpets originally from Persia, Iraq, China, etc., to Denmark under the same certificate as those of United Kingdom manufacture; whether he is aware that these carpets have only passed through a slight process of washing in this country; that the result of these exports is to reduce the already limited quota allotted for the import of British carpets into Denmark, thus seriously affecting the trade in this country; and what action the Board of Trade is taking in the matter?

The Board of Trade considered a similar question in 1935 in con- nection with the Anglo-German Payments Agreement and decided that certificates of United Kingdom origin might be issued in respect of Oriental carpets fully processed in the United Kingdom. Such certificates should not be issued in respect of imported carpets which have been merely cleaned in this country. If my hon. Friend will let me have full particulars of cases in which the certificates have been used for carpets which have been only washed in this country, I will look into the matter.

I am much obliged to my hon. Friend, but may I further ask him whether it is really necessary to include these carpets in the quota at all?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a large rivet works at Sunderland has recently been closed down in consequence of the large importation into this country of rivets at prices which cannot economically be equalled in Great Britain under the present policy regarding steel; and whether he will request the Iron and Steel Federation to make arrangements with shipbuilders which will encourage a wider use of British rivets or take other steps to remedy the present difficulties facing the British rivet industry?

I am aware that a rivet works at Sunderland has recently been closed down. As regards the last part of the question, it is open to the British Iron and Steel Federation to negotiate with the shipbuilders, and they will doubtless do so if they consider that any useful purpose will be served.

While thanking the hon. Member for the reply, may I ask whether he will do anything to influence the federation to give the same sort of terms to the rivet industry, seeing that so large a proportion of ship-plates are of British make?

Will the Parliamentary Secretary inquire into the working of the international cartel to see how far it is preventing our own industries being kept open by its operation?

I have not the slightest reason for imagining that the operations of the iron and steel cartel have anything like the effect which the hon. Baronet supposes.

May I ask whether, in the near future, we shall have a report on the iron and steel trade from the committee which may throw some light on the matter?

That is far beyond the question on the Order Paper.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the decision to establish steelworks at Scunthorpe and the evidence existing that demand for British steel far exceeds supply, he will recognise the complementary and equally strong claim put forward in support of the steelworks scheme for Jarrow, and take steps to prevent the British Iron and Steel Federation using their powers against the establishment of competitive supplies in Great Britain?

As I said in reply to the hon. Members for Gateshead (Mr. Magnay) and for the Clayton Division (Mr. Jagger) on 3rd February, the Import Duties Advisory Committee are satisfied that the scheme in the Scunthorpe area is in the national interest and will not preclude consideration of suitable schemes for other areas.

Does the hon. Member realise that there is a serious shortage of constructional steel and that big building schemes are being held up by the want of the necessary steel? Is he also aware that prices are rapidly rising in this particular industry? Will he, therefore, see that something is done to break up the international cartel, or that the opening up of new steel works is facilitated?

Will the Parliamentary Secretary consider setting out a concise statement of what exactly the position is in this matter?

I am sure that by question and answer it is not possible to give the concise statement which the hon. Member desires. I am perfectly aware of the position in the iron and steel industry, and the answer to the question which the hon. Member asked as to Scunthorpe is that that particular scheme is in the national interest. There is no reason why a particular scheme being in the national interest any other scheme which is in the national interest should not receive consideration on its merits.

In view of the fact that the syndicate which is backing the Jarrow scheme is still prepared to go on with the matter provided they are guaranteed against discrimination by the iron and steel trade am I to understand that the Government now will be prepared to give further consideration to that scheme if it is put before them?

The claims of Jarrow are not in any sense being overlooked, but I should not like the hon. Member to assume that the answer to her question is in the affirmative in regard to the particular scheme to which she refers. There is no reason why a proposal dealing with the steel industry in Jarrow should not receive consideration on its merits.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make a statement on the result of his discussions in the United States of America during his recent visit; and whether there is any immediate prospect of any trade agreement being arrived at?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him and the hon. Member for Dorset East (Mr. Hall-Caine) by my right hon. Friend on 9th February.

That was a week ago, and in the meantime statements are being made in America. Why should the Americans be frank with their public and the British Government be so secretive? Why are we not given the same information?

There is nothing secretive whatever. My right hon. Friend gave a full and complete answer on a previous occasion, and I am sure the hon. Member will be the first person to wish to put the same question again in a month's time.

Should not the country have this information sooner?

asked the Prime Minister whether with a view to facilitating a revival of world trade, His Majesty's Government will propose the re-assembling of the World Economic Conference, adjourned in July, 1933?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 14th May last in reply to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for Southampton (Mr. Craven-Ellis), of which I am sending him a copy.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the statement recently made by Mr. Cordell Hull that an adequate revival of international trade would be the most powerful single factor in lessening political tension and in averting the danger of war, and, that being so, would it not be worth consideration, in co-operation with President Roosevelt, to make another attempt to solve these world economic problems?

I think we shall all find ourselves in agreement with that statement, but according to our information the present would not be a favourable time for calling the conference. If it were a favourable time, I would gladly consider the matter.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the Government's desire to improve the physique of the nation, he will appoint at least one qualified physical training instructor to each Territorial unit?

This matter is under consideration.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the disappointment caused to London Territorial units at the comparatively small numbers which are to be employed in lining the streets of their own territorial city at the Coronation; and whether, in view of the responsibilities recently placed on London Territorials in connection with the defence of London from air attack, he will consider the possibility of doubling the line on certain parts of the route overlooked by stands, and therefore not interfering with the view of pedestrians, to enable a larger number of London Territorials to be employed and give an impetus to recruiting in the London area?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, before arriving at the decision that all Territorial Army units shall be equally represented at the Coronation ceremony, he took into consideration the fact that members of provincial units who are not selected to attend the national ceremony in London will be able to participate in local celebrations, whereas those in the London area will have no opportunities of this nature; and whether, with a view to allaying the disappointment felt generally by members of London units, he will arrange to increase their representation on the occasion of the Coronation procession?

All factors have been duly considered, including the treatment given to London Territorial Army units on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee celebrations and of the Royal Funeral, and I see no reason for departing from the decision already taken that London and provincial troops shall be equally represented. As regards the absence of local celebrations which members of London units can attend, it has now been decided that on the occasion of the Royal visit to Guildhall the streets shall be lined entirely by London Territorials, and in view of this my hon. Friends will no doubt agree that the London units will have no cause for complaint or disappointment.

Does the word "provincial" include Scotland?

asked the Secretary of State for War what accommodation is being provided in new Territorial drill halls for the social and recreational needs of all ranks; and whether he is satisfied that the present allowance is sufficient?

The scales of accommodation referred to vary with the establishments of units, and cannot conveniently be stated within the limits of an answer to a question. I am considering whether there is room for improvement in any respect.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the efficacy of an antiaircraft rangefinder known as Hank's Predictor; whether this safeguarding device has been tested; whether the results were found to be satisfactory; and whether it has been taken over by the Government?

An anti-aircraft rangefinder designed by Mr. Hanks was subjected to exhaustive tests many years ago, but was found to be unsatisfactory. Recently claims as to its efficacy have been renewed, but I am advised that the instrument cannot possibly meet the more complex requirements of present day antiaircraft gunnery. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the 44th (Leicestershire Regiment) Anti-Aircraft Battalion, Royal Engineers, is up to establishment strength in men and equipment or what respective deficiencies now exist; and what is the location of the complementary artillery defence unit?

The 44th (Leicestershire Regiment) Anti-Aircraft Battalion, Royal Engineers, has at present 22 officers and 283 other ranks towards an establishment of 42 officers and 1,294 other ranks, but as the unit was only formed in December last, these figures are not discouraging. The full provisional scale of searchlight equipment has been issued, and full equipment will be issued as it becomes available. The artillery unit of the 32nd (South Midland) Anti-Aircraft Group of which the 44th (Leicestershire Regiment) Anti-Aircraft Battalion, Royal Engineers, forms part, is located at Birmingham.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman, firstly, whether the issued equipment has been received or not; secondly, whether the Birmingham location of the artillery unit is satisfactory for use in conjunction with the anti-aircraft unit that distance away; and, thirdly, when can a statement as to improved conditions of service be expected?

The hon. and learned Gentleman had better put those questions on the Paper.

asked the Secretary of State for War the names of the London boroughs which have refused to grant holidays with pay to those of their employés who join the Territorial Army?

This information is not available.

Would it not be possible to take steps to acquire that very valuable information?

I do not know that there is any point in my going to the trouble which would be involved in acquiring the information when there are no steps I can take in the matter.

Surely we could bring public opinion to bear on those boroughs?

asked the Secretary of State for War how many units of the Territorial Army Anti-Aircraft Brigades charged with the defence of London are still equipped with three-inch guns?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the three-inch guns with which the anti-aircraft brigades charged with the defence of London are equipped are obsolescent; and whether it is the policy of His Majesty's Government to substitute for them guns of 3.7 inch and 4.45-inch calibre?

The units of the Territorial Army Anti-Aircraft Brigades are at present armed with the three-inch antiaircraft gun. This gun is still an extremely effective weapon, but in view of the still greater efficacy of the new types referred to in the question, it is intended gradually to substitute them for the three-inch gun.

Could the right hon. Gentleman say when he anticipates that this substitution will be complete?

I cannot answer that question without notice.

Has the right hon. Gentleman satisfied himself that the treatment of these anti-aircraft brigades by the War Office has been as good as it would be if they were under the charge of the Air Ministry?

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury the number of civil servants now actually serving in the Territorial Forces; and what steps are taken by the different Departments to stimulate enlistment in the Territorials on the part of their respective staffs?

As regards the first part of the question, I regret that the information is not available. As regards the second part, I am glad to be able to assure my hon. and gallant Friend that, subject only to the vital requirements of the public service, Government Departments give every encouragement to members of their staff to join the Territorial Army, and I would refer him in this connection to the first part of the answer which I gave on 9th December last to my hon. Friend the Member for King's Lynn (Mr. Maxwell).

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury how soon he proposes to issue a circular to Government Departments informing them of the decision to grant extra leave with pay to civil servants attending Territorial camps?

I hope that the necessary detailed instructions will be issued in the course of the next two or three weeks.

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that it is eight months since a decision was reached and that the delay in issuing a circular to civil servants is prejudicing the recruiting of them for the Territorials?

The decision to grant leave with pay has already been announced. As for the detailed instruction for which my hon. Friend is waiting I would remind him that there are other auxiliary forces. Their period of training may differ, and it is desirable that the instruction when issued should be comprehensive.

asked the Secretary of State for War why there are no British military observers with General Franco's armies, in view of the fact that more valuable information could be accumulated by this country were there military observers accredited to both sides in the Spanish war?

While it is not possible at present to attach an officer permanently to General Franco's armies, it is hoped to take advantage of opportunities that may occur for a visit by one of our assistant military attaches.

In view of the obvious importance of a knowledge from both sides and a knowledge of the weapons of foreign countries, and in view of the fact that for months past nothing has been done, can the right hon. Gentleman give us any idea why nothing has been done all this time?

Would it not be desirable that Sir Oswald Mosley should be allocated to this duty?

Is it not important that we should know exactly how the Italian and German armies are functioning in action?

I beg to give notice that, unless some further satisfactory answer is given to me, I propose to raise on the Adjournment the question of our having military observers on both sides.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any decision has been arrived at as to the future use or disposal of Knightsbridge Barracks and its site; and, in the event of disposal, what special conditions will be imposed as to the use of same?

The disposal of Knightsbridge Barracks is not under discussion. The last part of the question does not, therefore, arise.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Government have taken any decision on the recommendations of the report issued by the Howard Frank Committee on this subject?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the dearth of recruits for the Army, he will consider the advisability of suspending recruiting regulations which prevent the re-enlistment of unemployed ex-service men and reservists who have married since leaving the Regular Army?

This matter is under consideration.

asked the Secretary of State the present number of workers employed in connection with the new munition factory at Irvine, in Ayrshire; what proportion of these is Scottish; what will be the total number of workers to be employed at this factory when it is in full operation; and what proportion of these workers will be Scottish?

The number of men at present employed in connection with the new factory at Irvine is 227. Of this number 95 per cent. are locally-engaged men. The approximate number to be employed when the factory is in full operation is 650, of whom it is estimated that approximately 90 per cent. will be local.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the peculiar suitability, from the strategic and economic point of view, for a further development of the Irvine factory, and will he bear that in mind?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether a decision has yet been reached on the question of restoring the heavy horse-breeding grant for Scotland?

I have given careful consideration to the representations made to me on this subject; I have reached the conclusion that there is no sufficient justification at the present time for charging public funds with a general restoration of heavy horse-breeding grants in Scotland, but that it would be expedient to revive the special grants which were offered to societies in the islands of Orkney and in Argyll, which are part of the congested districts, to help to defray some of the additional expense incurred by these societies in obtaining high-class stallions from the mainland. I have, therefore, arranged that a limited amount of money will be provided for this purpose in the coming financial year.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will instruct his nominee on the Racecourse Betting Control Board to suggest that, in view of the increased surplus available in the totalisator fund and of the fact that part of the revenue of the Board is obtained from Scottish sources, part of the distributable surplus should be made available for the promotion of Scottish horse-breeding?

The issue of such an instruction as is referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend is not within my powers. I am glad, however, to be able to inform him that the claims of the Scottish heavy horse-breeding industry for a grant from the surplus arising out of the operations of the Racecourse Betting Control Board in 1936 are at present engaging the attention of the Board, who are in correspondence with me on the subject.

Will my right hon. Friend point out to the Board how much appreciated by the horse-breeding industry in Scotland would be a satisfactory decision on this matter?

Do I understand that the Betting Control Board is distributing dividends before it has paid off its overdraft?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he intends to take in response to the petition sent on behalf of the staff in the Criminal Lunatic Department, Perth, complaining of long hours of duty and irregular mealtimes?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 31st July, 1936, to a previous question by him, in which it was stated that the working hours in force at the Criminal Lunatic Department were suggested by the staff themselves. Since then no petition on the subject has been received by the Prisons Department, but if any representations are made they will receive due consideration.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will take steps to remove the grievances of the Scottish prison officers that they are not allowed representation on the National Whitley Council; that the manner in which representations from the Prison Officers Representative Board on the pay question have been treated by his Department causes discontent; and that the meetings at prisons do not represent more than a third of the staff?

Prison officers, as members of a discipline service, are not within the scope of the National Whitley Council for the Civil Service, but are afforded due opportunity of making representations on matters affecting their conditions of service through a representative board constituted for the purpose. No alteration in this procedure, which is designed to meet the particular circumstances of the prisons service, seems to be necessary. With regard to the second part of the question, I have no reason to suppose that representations from the board are not properly considered. As regards the last part of the question, reports of attendances at meetings are not made to the Department, as the matter is one for the staffs themselves. I understand, however, that a marked increase of interest in the representative board has recently been shown, and that a full and active board is now in being.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that the very existence of these questions is an indication of dissatisfaction, and will he not have some further inquiry made in order to endeavour to create the satisfaction which should exist?

I think we ought to try the matter out now that we have a much larger attendance at the representative board than was the case when the old board was in existence.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the serious crisis that has developed in egg and poultry marketing in Scotland; and whether he will consider the advisability of meeting representatives of the poultry breeders with a view to arriving at some measure of agreement that will end the present unsatisfactory state of affairs?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the position of the poultry industry in Scotland; that smallholders in the county of Linlithgow, with the cost of feeding-stuffs 4o per cent. in advance and the prices obtained for eggs at least 25 per cent. below last year's figures, are facing ruin; and what immediate steps he proposes to take to remedy this state of affairs?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the poultry industry in Scotland is in a critical state; that large numbers of poultry-keepers are on the verge of bankruptcy on account of the low prices now being obtained for home-grown eggs; and whether he is prepared to receive a deputation from the organised poultry-keepers of Scotland in order to consider immediate steps for the relief of a dangerous situation?

I am aware of the concern felt amongst poultry farmers in Scotland in regard to the position of the industry, and I can assure the hon. Members that the position is being carefully watched by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and myself. I am at all times ready to consider a request from representative organisations of producers to discuss their particular problems. No approach has, however, been made to me by the organised poultry industry.

Is the Minister not aware of the fact that the crisis is very serious, and that many poultry breeders are threatened with having to go out of business as a consequence of the very high cost of feeding, and will he not therefore take the most urgent steps to save this industry?

Has the right hon. Gentleman observed from the Board of Trade answers on this subject to-day, that China does not come in the list of those countries whose eggs must be allowed in, and in view of the fact that much of the trouble is being caused by Chinese eggs, supposed to have been diverted from Spain, will he not consider prohibiting their entry to this country?

We are spending too much time on eggs this afternoon.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the promised White Paper, dealing with the financial effect to the local authorities of the new formula for the allocation of block grants to Scottish local authorities, will be available?

I hope to lay before the House in about a fortnight's time a White Paper dealing with the statutory inquiry into the working of the block grant formula in Scotland, and outlining the Government's proposals relating to the amount and distribution of the Scottish grant during the fixed grant period beginning on 16th May next. A separate Scottish Bill for giving effect to these proposals will be introduced at the same time.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the desire amongst local authorities in Scotland for the consolidation of local government statute law relating to public health; and what action he proposes to give effect to the desires of the local authorities?

I am aware that Scottish local authorities have expressed the desire for the consolidation of the law relating to public health. I have every sympathy with their views, and I am keeping the matter before me in my consideration of the report of the Committee on Scottish Health Services.

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to set aside a special draftsman for the purpose of carrying through that work without which it is almost impossible to get the work completed in time to help the existing local authorities?

I will certainly consider the question of engaging additional staff for this purpose.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has had time to study the report of the Departmental Committee on Vagrancy in Scotland, particularly chapter III, paragraph 28, which deals with the methylated spirit and "Red Biddy" drinkers and the addicts to even worse concoctions; whether he has considered the recommendations contained in chapter XII, paragraph 152, for dealing with these addicts; and, if so, what action, if any, is proposed to give effect to the recommendations?

The report is under consideration. As stated in the report, the drinking of methylated spirits, "Red Biddy," and other such concoctions is not confined to vagrants. The recommendation in paragraph 152 that vagrants addicted to such practices should be compulsorily detained raises a very wide question, which requires careful consideration.

Is it not a fact that "Red Biddy" could never do any harm to a Scotsman?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is yet in a position to make a statement with regard to the salaries of sheriffs-substitute?

I am at present unable to add to my reply to a question on this subject by the hon. Member for Dunbartonshire (Mr. Cassells) on 15th December.

In view of the considerable time that has elapsed since then, will my right hon. Friend endeavour to come to an early decision?

I will do my best.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the villagers of Milton of Balgonie were charged a rate of 11¾. in the pound for 1936 in respect of drainage in the village; that no drainage has been proceeded with; that the Fife County Council say that the drainage of Milton of Balgonie is part of a larger scheme, the drainage of the River Leven, which will ultimately benefit Milton of Balgonie; and will he take steps to see that the drainage of the village is immediately attended to or the money secured by the drainage rate returned to those from whom it has been taken?

The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second and third parts, the county council have before them a scheme for the purification of the River Leven by the construction of a regional sewer into which the drainage of sewers for Milton of Balgonie would discharge. I am informed that progress is being made in the necessary negotiations between the county council and the industrialists and neighbouring authorities concerned and that the county council consider they are fully entitled to levy the rate in question.

Is it permissible that the people of Milton of Balgonie should pay a rate of 11¾. for drainage and get no drainage?

If the inhabitants think they are being improperly rated, the remedy is to be sought in the Law Courts. The Secretary of State has no power to intervene in the matter.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what quantity of foreign barley of the season 1936 crop has been landed at Lossiemouth to the latest date for which figures are available; and what was the average price paid by the distillers for this barley?

As indicated in reply to a question by my hon. Friend on 16th June, 1936, separate figures as to imports of barley into Lossiemouth are not available. I will, with his permission, circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a tabular statement showing the quantities and values of barley imported into the Port of Inverness, including Lossiemouth, for the months of September, 1936, to January, 1937, inclusive. I regret that information as to the price paid by distillers is not available.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the average price paid by distillers for home barley of the season 1936 crop?

The average price of barley at the Scottish markets from which returns are received, for the period October, 1936, to January, 1937, was 8s. 6d. per cwt. The returns do not, however, distinguish between malting and other barley, and I am therefore unable to reply specifically to my hon. Friend's question.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the subletting at excessive profits of municipal houses; and whether he is satisfied that the present arrangements in Scotland to control this practice are adequate to safeguard the interests of tenants as a whole?

I have seen a recent Press report indicating that Cumnock Town Council have decided to make a full inquiry into allegations about the subletting of their houses. With regard to the latter part of the question, under the Housing (Scotland) Act, 1935, a local authority must make it a condition of every let that the tenant shall not sub-let the house without the written consent of the authority, who must, before giving consent, satisfy themselves that only a reasonable rent is to be charged for the sub-let. The attention of local authorities was recently drawn to these provisions which in my opinion should be adequate.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland in what circumstances the Department of Health refused to sanction the acceptance of the lowest offer for the supply of gas and cookers to the new housing scheme at Crosshill and Rosewell, Fife; and whether this is a departure from the usual custom of the Department?

Although the county council accepted the offer of the gas company whose tender for installation of gas and cookers was slightly higher than that of the other gas company which tendered, the Department decided that they would not be justified in interfering with the council's decision in view of the higher price which tenants would subsequently have had to pay for gas supplied by the latter company. With regard to the latter part of the question, it is the Department's practice to insist on the acceptance of the lowest offer for housing contracts except where a local authority adduce satisfactory reasons for passing it over.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the tenants of the property at 18, Soho Street. Glasgow, are to have suitable housing accommoda- tion provided for them in view of the housing conditions of the property concerned?

At their meeting on l0th February the housing committee of the Glasgow Corporation made a demolition order in respect of the 13 houses at 18, Soho Street, and one at 20, Soho Street. The corporation inform me that they hope to commence the rehousing of the families at the end of the three weeks which must elaspes before the order becomes operative.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps, if any, are being taken by Glasgow Corporation to increase and accelerate their housing programme in view of the hardships under which so many thousands of people are living in the slum areas of the city?

I am informed that the housing department of the corporation estimate that 4.446 houses will be built in 1937 as compared with 1,985 in 1936. I hope to have next week an opportunity of discussing the position informally with the corporation representatives in Glasgow.

May I thank the right lion. Gentleman for his answers, and say that I am glad the people in Soho Street are now to get a decent house?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will state the definition of a small holding built with the financial assistance of the Department of Agriculture for Scotland?

The operations of the Department of Agriculture for Scotland are governed by a somewhat complicated code of legislation, and I am afraid that no definition such as the hon. Member desires is possible. I may add that in a recent handbook 10 pages are devoted to a discussion accompanied by references to case law on the subject of "What is a Holding and what is not?"

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that for that reason, namely, because there are so many definitions and findings, many people are penalised when it comes to assessments; and will he see that that unfair position is corrected by giving definite instructions to county councils and valuation appeal courts?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether it is the intention of his Department that smallholders settled or financially assisted by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland should have their holdings and houses thereon assessed as one subject, as in the case of larger farms, and enjoy derating like farmers?

It has recently been decided by the Lands Valuation Appeal Court that a house forming part of an improvement provided by a smallholder should be entered in the valuation roll for rating purposes, but that where the house is suitable and accessory to the holding it should receive the benefits of derating as an agricultural subject. The effect of these decisions could not be varied except by legislation, which would involve wide questions of principle affecting the valuation and rating laws. I am not in a position to make any statement about legislation, but the position is at present under careful review.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that again, because of the uncertainty in the position, many people are being penalised, and will he do something about it?

I have already said that I am not in a position to make any statement about legislation, but that the position is under careful review.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the crofter-fishermen at Sandwick Parks, Isle of Lewis, were regarded as agricultural holders when these holdings were created; whether the holdings are still regarded by the Scottish Department of Agriculture as agricultural holdings; and, if so, whether he will take action to protect the rights of these crofter-fishermen as agricultural tenants against unjust assessments?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. In the particulars of the scheme at Sandwick Parks issued to applicants in March, 1932, the subjects were described by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland as "building sites to be let to bona fide fishermen." The incidence of probable rating was also explained. I observe that unsuccessful appeal has been made to the competent rating authority who took the view that the subjects were nonagricultural. The last part of the question does not, therefore, arise.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that once again in this matter, owing to the uncertainty prevailing, many people are being penalised in a way which they did not anticipate when they were settled as agricultural tenants, because they are not now regarded as agricultural tenants, their houses are being assessed separately, and they do not receive the benefit of de-rating as big farmers do?

I do not think the hon. Member could have listened fully to my reply. These subjects do not relate to agriculturists, but to fishermen.

I do not accept that.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that private gardeners are now included in the unemployment insurance scheme for agricultural workers, involving the employer in a new annual contribution of 19s. 5d., he will consider the abolition of the male servants tax of 15s. per annum in so far as it concerns gardeners?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given on 1st December last to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for the New Forest and Christchurch (Major Mills).

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that different local authorities are quite differently interpreting the law as to male servants duty; that, for example, the East Sussex County Council is not for the present demanding this tax; and whether, in view of the urgent need for increasing employment, he will consider altering the law on this subject?

As regards the first two parts of the question, I would point out that the Male Servant Licence Duty is administered with independent authority within its respective area by each of the county and county borough councils in England and Wales; as regards the third part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given on 1st December last to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for the New Forest and Christchurch (Major Mills).

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in preparing the next Budget, relative to defence charges of £400,000,000, he will give due regard to a policy of capital levy?

I cannot discuss beforehand the contents of the next Budget Statement.

May we accept it that the policy of the Government under this Defence Loan is to penalise the poorest-paid among the working classes of the community?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Government will grant to all State employés and unemployed persons a bonus such as is being granted by certain commercial firms to their employés to celebrate the Coronation?

The answer is in the negative.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will give particulars of any new gold and silver coins it is proposed to issue to mark the coronation of their Majesties King George and Queen Elizabeth?

I cannot anticipate the detailed terms of the Royal Proclamation which must issue before any new coins are struck, but it is contemplated that specimen sets of such coins will be available at special prices to all who apply for them.

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman give particulars of how these sets will be available to the public?

Not at this date.

Will the special prices be the Mint prices?

Will the coins be issued by ballot?

No, Sir; I said that it is contemplated that such coins will be available to all who apply for them.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury in view of the possibility of the new coinage not being sufficient to meet the demands by 12th May, whether he will take steps to ensure that the Royal Mint produce a good supply of half-crowns for distribution to those desiring to commemorate the Coronation in this manner?