asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether any proposals have recently been placed before him by the county councils of Ross-shire and Inverness for communal water supplies in the Isle of Lewis and the Southern Isles of the Outer Hebrides; and, if so, what action he proposes to take?

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

In view of the fact that there has been a deterioration already in the conditions of water supply in these islands, will not the right hon. Gentleman take some action with the local authorities in the matter?

I am aware of the difficulty experienced in that area, but the question of expense has a large influence on the matter.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how the lack of water facilities there is acting against air-raid precautions?

Has the only objection of the right hon. Gentleman arisen in connection with finance; is it not a matter of public health also?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can now announce the views of the Government upon the recent Highlands report of the Scottish Development Council; and what action it is proposed to take in the matter?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has considered the report of the Highland and Islands Committee, particularly with reference to the appointment of a development commissioner; and what steps he proposes to take to carry out this recommendation?

The report of the committee referred to was published at the end of November last. It covers all aspects of the economic life of the Highlands and Islands and its recommendations are stated to relate to a long range policy of 15 to 20 years. I have the various proposals under active consideration and am already in consultation with the local authorities and other bodies concerned. It is my intention to press on with the consideration of the report as quickly as possible but hon. Members will appreciate that having regard to the range and complexity of the subjects dealt with it will not be possible to announce decisions for some time yet.

Will my right hon. Friend consider giving his first consideration to the acute distress in the fishing and agricultural industries in the Highlands?

I do not think that I can promise to give priority to one particular subject. A great many important subjects are dealt with in the report, and they are all engaging my attention at the present time.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this House unanimously accepted a Resolution de- manding that the Government deal urgently with distress in the Islands and Highlands, and that the Government have taken two years to get a report; and have we to wait for 20 years before action is taken?

If the hon. Member has read the report, as no doubt he has, very carefully, he will see the very great complexity of the subject and the difficulty of suggesting concrete proposals.

Inasmuch as the right hon. Gentleman is in consultation with the local authorities in this matter, may we take it that he will give no countenance to any proposals for a commissar to take over the business of local authorities as recommended in this report?

I do not think that the right hon. Gentleman will expect me to answer that question until I have had time to consider all its implications.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can make any announcement regarding recent changes in the organisation of the Special Constabulary in Scotland?

I have drawn the attention of all police authorities and chief constables to various steps that can be taken to improve the organisation, training and equipment of special constables. I have also taken action to provide that each county council shall be responsible, throughout the district policed by them for appointing and dismissing special constables, for making regulations for their organisation and training, and for paying the expenses of equipping, training and employing them.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the Secretary to the Scottish Department of Health has been transferred to the Treasury in London, and that an officer with Treasury experience only has been substituted as Secretary to the Scottish Department of Health; whether these changes were made at his instigation; and how they are calculated to improve the efficiency of the administration of Health Department business in Scotland?

The former Secretary to the Department of Health for Scotland w as promoted to a senior post in the Treasury. I am satisfied that the selection of his successor was made in the best interests of Scottish administration.

Does the right hon. Gentleman mind answering that part of the question which asks, "whether these changes were made at his instigation?"

They were not made at my instigation, but they were made with my approval.

May I ask my right hon. Friend whether he has found any objection by English people when a Scotsman has been appointed by the Government in this country?

The officer mentioned in the question comes of an old Scottish family.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the nature of the representations received from local authorities or other public bodies in Ayrshire with regard to the official schemes for evacuation, non-evacuation, and billeting?

Four of the 15 town councils in Ayrshire who were asked to carry out the survey of accommodation for the purpose of the Government evacuation scheme have represented that their areas should not be designated as receiving areas. I have promised to consider these representations in the light of the results of the survey. Three of the four town councils have agreed to proceed with the survey, and I hope that the remaining town council will also agree.

Will my right hon. Friend remember that Ayrshire, and especially the West Coast, has a considerable number of harbours, ports, armament factories and other places that might be likely to attract hostile aircraft?

These circumstances will be taken into account, but the important thing is to get on with the survey.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the nature of the replies received to the circular letter from the Scottish Education Department urging the need for the avoidance on the part of children of playing with gas masks; and what steps have been taken to give publicity to the advice of the Department on this subject?

The circular letter to which my hon. Friend refers did not call specifically for any reply. I have ascertained, however, that in all areas where a distribution of gas masks to children has been made, publicity has been given to the contents of the circular by the means suggested in its second paragraph.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider withdrawing the gas masks from the four areas that do not want any children to be evacuated there?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has considered the letter from the Tiree Association protesting against the granting of the mail contract to Messrs. MacBrayne for a further period of 10 years, and urging the development of a daily air service, taking one hour from Glasgow instead of 14 hours by rail and boat as at present; what reply he has given thereto; and what steps he is taking to improve air communications with the Western Isles with a view to bringing the amenities of civilisation within reach of the inhabitants of those islands?

I have received the letter referred to in the first part of the question. I have sent a letter in acknowledgment and have informed the General Post Office and the Air Ministry of its contents. I am informed by my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General that the air service to Tiree has not yet reached a stage at which it could be used for the carriage of mails. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Air has adopted measures for encouraging the development of air services in this country by means of subsidy and radio and meteorological facilities, and these measures will apply to air services to the Western Isles.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the urgency of the question of speed, and that the time taken is far too long in this case; and seeing that the only means of transport for these islands is by sea, he might push on with the idea of getting them reached by air and not wait for 10 years, for anything may happen in that time?

I agree with the hon. Member that flying in the Western Isles during the last few years has been very helpful, and I want to see it improved.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the letter from the Tiree Association has certainly not expressed the views of the people in the Western Isles of Scotland who desire our improved steamer service to continue, apart from the air service; and, furthermore, regarding the last part of the question, is he aware that civilisation was in the Western Isles long before it penetrated here?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has considered representations from the elected representatives of the Outer Hebrides regarding the excessive freight charges by the MacBrayne Steamer Company, especially on foodstuffs and exports of local fishermen; and whether he has urged, or is urging, the substantial and early reduction of these charges?

I have received a resolution in the sense referred to in the first part of the question. With regard to the second part, I would refer to Article 23 of the contract with Messrs. David MacBrayne Limited which deals with freight charges.

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that there is to be no reduction within two years, but that these burdens upon the people are operating now, and not two years hence? Will the right hon. Gentleman take some steps in the matter?

I think that question had better be discussed when the contract is debated.

Is it not a fact that while the rates charged are high the wages paid to the clerks are low?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that at present, owing to the fact that Broadford Pier is closed and, as the steamer from Mallaig calls only three days a week at Armadale Pier, people from the South of the Isle of Skye have to go 25 miles to Kyleakin, cross to Kyle of Lochalsh, and thence make a two hours journey by boat to Mallaig; and will he take steps to secure a daily call at Armadale Pier and thereby secure a lasting benefit to the people of the Isle of Skye?

As regards the first part of the question, I am glad to be able to inform the hon. Member that the Department of Agriculture for Scotland have offered the county council of Inverness-shire a grant and loan towards the cost of reconstruction of Broadford Pier. With regard to the second part, the possibility of altering the present services so as to provide for a daily call at Armadale was one of the questions affecting services discussed with the company in connection with the new MacBrayne contract, but it was not found practicable. There is, however, a ferry service daily between 1st May and 15th October.

Is the Minister aware that a boat really does pass daily between Kyle and Mallaig and might well call at Armadale daily as well as at Mallaig and thus give the service asked for?

I do not think I could discuss details at Question Time. Perhaps there may be an opportunity in the Debate.

Would the Secretary of State for Scotland ask that the boat should call at Armadale Pier, which is the pier of Sleat, the southern part of Skye? To reach Mallaig from Armadale people used to go to Broadford, 16 miles by road. Broadford being closed they have to go to Kyleakin, 25 miles by road, then cross the ferry to Kyle of Lochalsh and get the steamer there. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that to cross to a place five miles across the Sound of Sleat, people have to travel by road 25 miles and then sail for two hours?

It is a question of timing the calls at other ports.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of antenatal and post-natal clinics, respectively, in the country in 1937, distinguishing between local authority and private centres; and the number of day nurseries and places for children under five therein.

The number of ante-natal clinics in Scotland in 1937 was 178, of which 164 were provided by local authorities and 14 by voluntary agencies; the number of post-natal clinics was 181, of which 171 were provided by local authorities and 10 by voluntary agencies. The number of day nursersies was 22, of which 14 were provided by local authorities and 8 by voluntary agencies, with approximately 650 places.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of midwives employed under the 1937 Maternity Services Act directly by local authorities, through voluntary organisations, and by arrangements with those in private practice, respectively; and for 1937 the percentage of births in Scotland attended by midwives, and the percentage in which medical assistance was required by the midwife.

No midwives are as yet engaged in service under the Maternity Services (Scotland) Act, 1937. Of the total births notified in Scotland during 1937 the percentage attended by private midwives was approximately 24. Medical assistance was required by midwives in approximately 8 per cent. of the total births, equivalent to 33 per cent. of the births attended by midwives.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the development of these services up to the present time?

I want to see more rapid improvement, and I hope that the formulation of the arrangements under the Act, to which I have referred, will shortly bring about that improvement.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say who are the real obstacles to the acceptance of the schemes which are being prepared by the local authorities under the Midwives Act?

I would rather not say.

Is it the medical profession?

There have been certain difficulties, but I am hopeful that these will be overcome, and I am anxious to press on in order to get the improvement to which the hon. Gentleman refers.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement regarding the number of applications received and the number accepted for the receipt of assistance under the 1938 Housing Act in Ross and Cromarty, including Isle of Lewis; and when building is likely to begin?

No formal applications have yet been made to the County Council of Ross and Cromarty for assistance under the Housing (Agricultural Population) (Scotland) Act, 1938. The county council's scheme was approved in November last and since then application forms have been sent to about 130 persons who have made inquiries. The county council have made arrangements for their housing officers to visit intending applicants and give them any necessary guidance.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of persons who were in receipt of public assistance in Scotland, giving out-door and in-door numbers, respectively, as at 15th June, 1931, and 15th January, 1939?

At 15th June, 1931, the numbers of persons, including dependants, in receipt of out-door and in-door public assistance in Scotland were 173,611 and 12,042 respectively. The corresponding figures for 15th January, 1939, were 230,639 and 10,694.

Does not that prove that there is no real prosperity under the National Government?

No, Sir; there is a variety of factors which account for these increased payments.

Is it the fact that a considerable proportion of these people who are now receiving public assistance in Scotland were originally immigrants from Ireland?

Does it not also mean that the treatment offered is better now than it was in the time of the Labour Government?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the nature of the recent representations made to him by Scottish local authorities on the question of local relief paid to ex-service, old age, and widow pensioners; and whether an inquiry is to be held on this question in the near future?

A number of Scottish local authorities have represented to me that they should be relieved of the charges which they incur in supplementing old age, widows' and orphans' pensions and have made proposals of a varying character to this end. I have received full particulars from these authorities, and I do not think that any further inquiries are necessary at present.

Has the right hon. Gentleman investigated the reports submitted to him by the local authorities?

Yes, Sir, I attended a Meeting in Glasgow a short time ago, and thereafter I received a good deal of information from the Glasgow Corporation and other local authorities. I am examining it carefully. It raises a large question of policy on which I cannot make a statement now.

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that this policy, which places a burden upon the local authorities, ought to be made a national charge?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the report of the auditor on the defalcations in the office of the town clerk of Dalbeattie, at the beginning of 1938, will be available?

I am informed that the auditor has completed his preliminary examination of the accounts and proposes, subject to the necessary procedure as to notice and opportunity for inspection of the abstract by ratepayers, to hold the public audit on 8th March. The terms of the auditor's report will be made available in the usual way after the audit is completed.

Will the right hon. Gentleman kindly say what is "the usual way?"

The terms of the auditor's report is made available for inspection by ratepayers.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total amount paid in old age and widows' pensions in Scotland for the years ended September, 1936, 1937 and 1938?

As the reply contains a table of figures I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the total amount has increased during these years?

Yes, by almost £500,000.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total acreage in Scotland cultivated for agricultural productive purposes for the years 1937 and 1938, respectively, and the number of agricultural workers employed during the same period?

As the reply contains a number of figures, I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the figures indicate a reduction in agricultural production in Scotland for the year in question?

Some diminution is indicated.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there have been fewer workers employed?

May I suggest that the hon. Member should read the statement that I send to him.

Is the right hon. Gentleman giving the statistics because he is afraid to answer the question?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered representations by Scottish local authorities regarding recent alterations made by the Bank of England in the conditions governing the issue of corporation bills; that the said alterations will impose on ratepayers a heavy burden of increased interest expenditure in connection with borrowings for municipal purposes prior to the completion of rate collection; and whether he proposes to take any action to deal with the fact that only a small minority of the largest authorities will be able to continue the issue of bills?

I understand that no such representations as those referred to in the question have been received. The position is as follows: The Bank of England recently decided to accept for discount, and as security for advances, approved Money Bills of local authorities to whom Parliament has granted specific and limited powers to borrow by such Bills. This decision, in fact, represents not a restriction but an extension of these facilities so far as Scottish local authorities (other than Glasgow) are concerned. Such facilities at the Bank of England had previously been restricted to four authorities in all, of whom the only Scottish authority was the Corporation of the City of Glasgow. The right hon. Member's question presumably refers to the effect on those Scottish local authorities, who do not possess specific powers of the kind f have mentioned, of the recent decision of the London Clearing Banks and of the Scottish Banks not to accept municipal bills as security for money market loans unless eligible for discount at the Bank of England. I do not think it would be proper for me to intervene with those bodies on a matter which is clearly within their discretion in the conduct of their business.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the White Moss Coal Company, Limited, Upholland, have disposed of their supply sales quota to the Sutton Manor Collieries, Limited, and, as the result, several hundred men will be thrown out of work; and what steps he is taking to prevent such transactions taking place in a Special Area?

I am aware that the Sutton Manor Collieries have purchased the supply basic tonnage of the White Moss Coal Company, Limited, but since this transaction will enable the Sutton Manor Collieries to expand their output, it does not follow, as my hon. Friend suggests, that several hundred men will be thrown out of work. The White Moss Company have in fact stated publicly that one of the pits comprised in their undertaking has been acquired also, and will continue to be worked by the Sutton Manor Collieries, and I am informed by the company that the majority of the men who will be displaced by the closing down of their other pit at Upholland will be found work at Sutton Manor as soon as developments there permit. I am not prepared to take steps to prevent the sale of supply basic tonnages. Such sales are essential in cases where steps are being taken to concentrate output in the more efficient colliery undertakings.

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that in this case it will mean the closing down of a colliery and will put several hundred men out of work? Will he make an appeal to the coalowners to consult with him before they deal with these quotas, because it means closing down collieries, and advise them on the course that they ought to take? Surely some steps ought to be taken by his Department in matters of this kind.

I have said that my information is that the majority of the men who will be displaced will be found work again.

That is a tale. It will not happen.

Is the Minister satisfied that this will not mean the reduction of reserves of domestic supplies? That has happened previously.

Does the Minister appreciate that while 51 per cent. will be employed, there may be 49 per cent. unemployed?

Is not this act a sequel to the Coal Mines Act, 1930, which was promoted by the party opposite?

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has given consideration to the recommendation made on page 367 of the report of the Royal Commission on Safety in Coal Mines, in which they state the electricity regulations have been in their present form since 1913; that a detailed examination of the regulations should be made by electrical engineers, and that a committee should be set up to conduct the examination as soon as possible; when he intends to appoint a committee; and who are to be invited to serve on the committee?

Yes, Sir, I am taking steps to implement this recommendation at an early date, and, if the hon. Member will repeat his question in a fortnight's time, I hope to be in a position to give him the names of the members of the committee and its terms of reference.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether any fresh agreement has been reached with New Zealand and Australia as the result of the recent meeting of the Empire Meat Council respecting a reduction of quota; and what assistance he is rendering to the Government of New Zealand to enable it to supply the British market with meat without an increase of the retail price to the consumer?

I understand that the Empire Meat Council, who are considering the question of imports of mutton and lamb into the United Kingdom for the current year, are holding a further meeting to-morrow. In the meantime I am not in a position to make a further statement on the matter. As regards the last part of the question, I have no reason to suppose that the Council will not take the interests of the consumer fully into account in any conclusions which they may reach.

Is the Minister aware that the Government of New Zealand is displaying considerable reluctance to accept any reduction in the quota, and is it not also true that frequently the reduction of imports increases out of all proportion to the reduction in home production?

The second part of the hon. Member's question is a matter of argument. As to the first part, as I have said in my reply, the New Zealand Government have made representations in connection with the reduction of mutton and lamb imports, naturally against any such proposal.

Is the Minister aware that his reference to a matter of opinion cannot be accurate, seeing that Argentine meat rose by one penny per pound while home-grown meat was reduced by one farthing per pound?

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he is aware that the marketing of cement in this country has, by agreement as to prices among producers, become a virtual monoply, and that as a result users of cement here are being charged excessively for the same; and what steps he proposes to take to deal with the situation;

I am aware that the Cement Makers' Federation have arrangements for regulating the price of cement sold by their members. If users of cement are of opinion that the removal of the import duty on foreign cement would be advantageous to their interests, it is open to them to make representations to the Import Duties Advisory Committee.

Is the Minister aware of the very substantial rise which has taken place recently in British cement?

There has been a rise, but it is not an abnormal one, and it is explained by the producers that one of the chief factors in the rise has been the increased cost of coal.

Will my right hon. Friend take careful note of the conversion of hon. Member's opposite to the advantages of competition?

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the nature of the negotiations now proceeding between representatives of the Federation of British Industries and members of the corresponding organisation in Germany; and whether he is prepared to make a statement?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can make any statement with regard to the arrangements that are to be made for trade discussions between the Federation of British Industries and the German Industrial Group; and what particular British industries will be represented?

Informal conversations have been taking place between officials of the Federation of British Industries and of the Reichsgruppe-Industrie, which is the corresponding organisation in Germany, with a view to devising means for settling the problems that arise from competition between industries in the two countries. These conversations, which have been proceeding with the full knowledge and approval of His Majesty's Government, are to be followed at the end of this month by formal discussions between the two organisations. I hope that it will then be possible to initiate direct negotiations between a number of British industries and the competing industries in Germany, but I am not at present in a position to say which particular industries will be represented. I may add that there are already in existence a number of agreements between British and German industries respecting trade in home and export markets, and I hope that British industrialists will avail themselves extensively of the opportunity to make direct contact with their German competitors. With good will on both sides it should, I feel sure, be possible to solve many of the problems that have arisen or may arise affecting the trade of the two countries and so to obviate the need for recourse to other measures.

Do these negotiations deal exclusively with Anglo-German trade or do they cover much wider markets in South-Eastern Europe? If so, what is the Government's policy? Is it to encourage negotiations between industries in this country and Germany, or have they a more comprehensive policy?

As to the third part of the supplementary question, the hon. Member, when he reads the answer, will see that the negotiations cover Anglo-German trade and competition in neutral markets as well. With regard to the second part of his question, it is our intention that the position of South-Eastern European markets should be discussed and also any others.

If these negotiations result in an agreement between the traders of both countries, will this House be informed of the result before an agreement is actually ratified?

It will be an agreement between the industries. I cannot answer a hypothetical question like that.

But an agreement of this character may affect national interests, and having regard to the fact that what is now being done is being done with the approval of the right hon. Gentleman, is it not desirable that this House should be acquainted with the result before any agreement is ratified?

I recognise that point, and I shall certainly make it my business to get from the industries as much information as is possible.

May we be assured that this country will not be committed to an obligation like that of the steel cartel without the approval of the House?

asked the President of the Board of Trade the date on which the international conference for the working out of the wheat marketing agreement will meet; and whether, in view of the fact that the British Government's delegates have expressed its willingness to support a restriction scheme designed to secure minimum prices above the current market quotations, determined steps will be taken to prevent a rise in the price of bread in this country?

No arrangements for calling an international conference on wheat have been settled but the Wheat Advisory Committee, on which the main wheat importing and exporting countries are represented, decided at their meeting in January, to appoint a preparatory committee (which is now sitting) to prepare the ground with a view to the holding of such a conference if a sufficient basis of agreement is disclosed. No commitments have been made by His Majesty's Government or any other Government, though I. believe it is generally felt that an undue fall in wheat prices might have a serious influence on world trade. I would remind the hon. Member that His Majesty's Government were a party to the London Wheat Agreement of 1933, but he may rest assured that they would not lose sight of the possible effects of any agreement on the price of bread.

In view of the fact that the British delegates are in favour of a restriction scheme, does the Minister not agree that certain steps should be taken to protect consumers?

I have said already that the British delegates are not committed to any scheme.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will request his economic advisers to ascertain whether the diversity of styles, types and sizes of motor-vehicles for private use creates an avoidable factor of national economic waste; and to report whether the amalgamation of motor manufacturing firms and the elimination of unnecessary variations of pattern, followed by expansion of the motor mass-production policy, would strengthen the national economic structure?

A highly technical question of this kind is, I think, best considered by the motor industry itself, but I should be willing to give any help I could in any investigation they decided to undertake.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make any statement regarding the proposals submitted to him in the summer of the year 1938 for the improvement in the British herring-fishing industry and the West Indian citrus fruits industry by an exchange of products; whether the Herring Industry Board, the Colonial Empire Marketing Board, the West Indian chambers of commerce, and the Governors in the West Indies have now been consulted as to details; and what steps he proposes to take in furtherance of a scheme of produce exchange between two Empire communities who are both in increasing destitution because they are unable to market their respective products?

I regret that consideration of these proposals has been retarded by the reconstitution of the Herring Industry Board, but I hope that the new board which only recently entered upon its duties, will be able to consider them at an early date. I understand that the Colonial Empire Marketing Board have already had the proposals before them and will examine them further as soon as they are acquainted with the views of the Herring Industry Board. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies has been in communication with the Governor of Jamaica in the matter and hopes to receive an early report from him.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that orders for merchant ships placed in British yards during the first nine months of 1938 amounted to only 168,000 tons; that during the year 1938 British shipowners had launched to their account in continental shipyards nearly 200,000 tons of shipping; whether he can give the name of the firm of British owners which had seven motor tankers built for it during the year 1938 in German shipyards; and what steps he is taking to prevent British owners placing such orders abroad?

I am unable, from official sources, to confirm the figures given in the first two parts of the question, but I may point out that figures of orders placed are not strictly comparable with figures of ships launched, and that the tonnage of merchant ships launched from British yards during the year 1938 for registration in the United Kingdom was 824,199 gross tons. The answer to the third part of the question is that seven motor tankers built in German shipyards during the year 1938 were recorded as owned by Inver Tankers, Limited, when they were registered as British ships. As regards the last part of the question, the House has already been informed that there is no action within the power of the Board of Trade to prevent shipbuilding orders being placed abroad, but, as the House is aware, the whole position of the shipping and shipbuilding industries is now receiving the consideration of the Government.

When does the Minister hope to be able to put before the House proposals for dealing with what is a most alarming position, and is he aware that it is contrary to British national interests that ships should be not only built in German yards, but broken up in German yards and used as scrap in German armament factories?

I have already informed the House that the Government recognise the urgency of this matter, and I hope there will be no undue delay before proposals are brought forward.

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that none of the ships built abroad is entitled, either directly or indirectly, to get a subsidy?

At the present moment none of the ships get subsidies.

In view of the statement which the right hon. Gentleman has just made, does he not think the time has arrived for inquiries to be made by the Government into the activities of National Shipbuilders Security, Limited, which is one of the chief factors for this?

Is not the reason for buying these ships from Germany this, that Germany owes these people a great deal of money, and this is the only way they can get their money?

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he is aware that one of the best equipped shipbuilding yards in England, situated on the Tees-side, has seven berths empty out of eight, and 60 per cent. of skilled workers unemployed; and, in view of the fact that the Mercantile Marine is an essential adjunct to the Navy in time of war, what action does he intend taking to meet our deficiency in merchant vessels;

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the decline in the numbers of merchant ships of all types and classes now being built or repaired in the shipbuilding yards of Great Britain, which is not offset by the naval shipbuilding programme; whether, in view of the unemployment which will ensue if no remedial measures are taken and the fact that Scotland in particular is adversely affected, he will consider promptly calling a conference of all the interested parties in Scotland with a view to evolving a scheme to benefit all engaged in the engineering and shipbuilding industries, the prosperity of which is vital to our country; and whether in the meanwhile he will examine the practicability of giving further assistance to British shipping provided that to qualify for such assistance ships must have been built in and repairs carried out in British shipyards?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give the House a statement of Government policy in relation to foreign competition in the coastal shipping industry, saying what is the state of such British trade now as compared to five years ago; and whether the Government propose to counter such foreign competition by subsidising the British coastal shipping companies?

The subjects mentioned in the questions are covered by the representations which, as the House is aware, the Government have received from the shipping and shipbuilding industries, and the position of those industries is now receiving the consideration of the Government. The House has already been informed that a statement will be made as soon as it is possible to do so.

Is the Minister aware that there are approximately 2,000 fewer vessels sailing under the British flag than in 1914, and that we have 5,000,000 more people to feed; and is it not the case that, as long as this country has to rely on the overseas countries for food supplies, it is essential to have merchant vessels as much as air-raid precautions?

It is because of this fact that the Government are considering this as a matter of great urgency.

Will the Government consider that service to the country ought to come before profits, and, therefore, give no financial assistance to companies which have vessels that are not built in British yards?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the exports of British cotton piece-goods to Central and South American countries for 1938 were barely more than half their yardage and value for 1937; and what steps he proposes to take to arrest the decline in this section of British export trade?

Total exports of United Kingdom cotton piece goods to those Central and South American countries for which statistics are available were approximately 188 million square yards, valued at £4,700,000 in 1938, compared with 295 million square yards, valued at £7,260,000 in 1937. As regards the second part of the question, His Majesty's Government will continue to bear the interests of the cotton industry in mind in connection with whatever opportunities arise, through trade negotiations or otherwise, for improving United Kingdom export trade in Latin American as in all other overseas markets.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the balance of trade between this country and South American countries is decisively in favour of the South American countries, and cannot this factor be used as a bargaining point?

That may be the case with regard to South America as a whole, but it is not true of particular countries.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps are to be taken during 1939 to renew with the Dominions negotiations for new trade agreements which were suspended when those with the United States were opened; and whether he can give any assurance that in connection with these negotiations adequate arrangements will be made to promote the interests of the cotton textile export trade?

No negotiations with the Dominions were suspended as a result of the negotiations with the United States of America; indeed, a new trade agreement was concluded with Eire on 25th April last. Trade discussions also took place last year with representatives of His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of Australia and the conclusions reached are set out in the White Paper (Cmd. 5805) issued on 20th July. Discussions are still proceeding with His Majesty's Government in the Union of South Africa while those with His Majesty's Government in New Zealand, which were adjourned in July, 1937, have not yet been resumed. I can assure my hon. Friend that in all trade agreement negotiations every effort is and will continue to be made on behalf of the interests of the cotton industry.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that, although the Films Act, 1938, has been in force for nine months, there has been no noticeable benefit to the volume and value of British studios output; and, in view of this, will he consider the appointment of a departmental committee to examine the position arid prospects caused by this Act, for the purpose of introducing amending legislation to remedy the present situation?

As regards the first part of the question, I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to my hon. and gallant Friend, the Member for South Paddington (Vice-Admiral Taylor) on 20th December. The Cinematograph Films Act provides means for adjusting the quotas from time to time to meet changing circumstances and the Cinematograph Films Council have the matter now under consideration.

Is the Minister aware that the only increase of any kind since the passage of this Act has been an increase of unemployment in the film studios, and will he see that something is done to remedy that?

I have said that the Act itself provides for the quotas being increased, and that matter is now under consideration by the Films Council.

Does it provide also for the making of films?

It has also provided for the making of good films during the past year.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that American interests have curtailed production so that instead of 500 films being imported into this country annually only about 350 will arrive in future, which means still less British films unless the quota is increased; and what steps he proposes to take to deal with the matter?

I am aware that there has been a decrease in the present renters' quota year in the number of films imported from the United States, but I have no evidence to show that production in that country is being curtailed as a permanent policy. The renters' quota on long films increases from 15 per cent. to 20 per cent. as from the beginning of April next, and I have recently asked the Cinematograph Films Council to consider the quota position in subsequent years.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the increased anxiety among those whose living depends on the production of British films, and, in view of that, will he expedite the decision in regard to British films?

I know that the Films Council are considering it as a matter of urgency. The hon. Member will realise that one of the reasons for the reduction has been the small number of films imported from America owing to the great falling off in production in Hollywood.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the recent decision of the Glasgow Corporation Transport Sub-Committee to purchase 2,200,000 gallons of diesel oil from Russia instead of from one of the British companies, he proposes to take any steps to ensure that this Russian oil will at least be imported in British vessels?

It is not within my power to ensure that this oil will be imported in British vessels; but I have forwarded my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion to the Glasgow Corporation, and I hope that it will receive their sympathetic consideration.

Is it not the case that the Corporation of Glasgow have nothing to do with the vessels bringing the oil over, and that two-thirds of this oil which has already been supplied has been brought to this country in British and Russian ships?

What I have done has been to ask the Corporation of Glasgow to do what I am sure they will do, that is, to see that, if it is within their power, British ships will be used.

Will the Minister see to it that every other company and corporation in this country which orders goods from abroad will insist on those goods being brought in British ships?

I certainly hope that every company and every individual will do what I am sure the Glasgow Corporation will do, and that is to give sympathetic consideration to British shipping.

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask the Glasgow Corporation how they expect to maintain employment on the Tyneside if they are going to buy oil from abroad?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the continual increase in the quantity of rubber footwear imported into this country from Hong Kong; and whether he proposes to take any steps to see that manufacturers in this country get an opportunity of competing for the home trade on fair terms?

I am aware of the further increase in these imports. The Import Duties Act provides for free entry under that Act of goods from the Colonies, but the possibility of regulating supplies on a voluntary basis is at present under discussion between the industries in the parts of the Empire concerned.

When does the right hon. Gentleman expect to have the inquiries completed?

I cannot say, but they are going on at the moment.

Have not representations on this matter been made steadily for several years past?

Yes, and the negotiations are the result of them.

Has my right hon. Friend noted that those who previously opposed the regulation of imports from the East are now in favour of it, and will he press on with the work?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered a communication from the National Federation of Grocers' and Provision Dealers' Associations with reference to the inadequacy of the present Weights and Measures Acts to protect the public, including the wholesale provision dealers; and what action does he propose to provide the protection desired?

I have considered the communication to which the hon. Member refers. Legislation would be required to bring wholesale transactions within the scope of the Sale of Food (Weights and Measures) Act, 1926, and, as I stated in my reply to the hon. Member's question on 20th December, the question of legislation will be considered when the review of existing regulations has been completed.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the heroism of the Blyth Volunteer Lifesaving Brigade in saving the lives of the master and two of the crew of the coasting steamer "Skary" which grounded on Cambois Beach, Northumberland, early on the morning of 24th December; whether he is aware that the efforts to get contact between the shore and the ship continued from approximately 11 o'clock on 23rd December to 3 o'clock on the morning of 24th December; and, in view of the difficulty which often obtains of establishing contact from the shore and of the comparative ease with which contact could be made from the ship to the shore, is he contemplating the advisability of making it compulsory for all ships to carry line-throwing guns or similar apparatus?

Yes, Sir. The Board of Trade highly appreciate the work done by the Blyth Volunteer Life Saving Brigade. The question of the compulsory equipment of ships with line-throwing appliances has recently been under consideration and, following a recommendation of the Merchant Shipping Advisory Committee, new statutory rules have been issued under which, as from 1st January, 1939, all sea-going passenger ships whatever their tonnage and all sea-going cargo ships of 80 tons gross and upwards must carry an approved line-throwing appliance.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will issue a return showing the number and gross tonnage of British merchant ships sold to foreign owners during the years 1933–38 inclusive, and also the nationalities of the purchasers of the vessels?

The particulars which the hon. Member desires for the years 1933 to 1937 have already been published in the December issues for these years of the monthly return G.R. 128 prepared by the Registrar-General of Shipping and Seamen. The issue containing the information for 1938 will be published in a few days. Additional information for the years 1933 to 1937 is contained in Table 12 of the Annual Statements of the Navigation and Shipping of the United Kingdom.

Has the right hon. Gentleman any reason for thinking that these ships which have been sold cheaply to foreign countries and foreign owners are now competing very severely with the shipping of the United Kingdom?

Some have been sold for breaking up.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will introduce legislation with the object of extending the application of full Board of Trade regulations to all foreign ships entering British ports.

Generally, the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Acts and the regulations made thereunder already apply to foreign ships in ports in the United Kingdom, and I am not aware of the necessity for further legislation on the subject.

Is it not the case that many foreign countries impose far lower standards in maritime matters than the right hon. Gentleman's own Department, and does not that amount to unfair competition?

Is not my right hon. Friend aware that there have been many complaints on the part of British owners and seamen that the regulations are not comparable and are not strictly enforced?

No, I am not aware of any complaint that the regulations are impossible, and I shall be glad if my hon. Friend will let me know of the specific provisions he has in mind.