Written Answers
Special Constables (Women)
asked the Home Secretary whether he has yet arrived at a decision concerning the appointment of women as special constables; and, if so, under what conditions?
My right hon. Friend asked police authorities and chief officers of police in March last to bear in mind the possibility of employing women on various classes of emergency work. This work, however, would not necessitate the possession of police powers and my right hon. Friend does not gather that the appointment of women as special constables is contemplated as a rule.
British Museum (Elgin Marbles)
asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury by whom the expense of the recent cleaning of the Elgin Marbles was defrayed?
The cleaning of the marbles was part of the normal routine work of the Museum, the cost of which is defrayed out of moneys voted by Parliament.
Refugees
asked the Home Secretary whether he will issue a visa to Viktor Tuschak, Vienna, transmigrant to the United States of America, who is guaranteed by Mr. E. H. Smith, of Henley-in-Arden, and whose papers went forward on 6th May to the German Jewish Aid Committee, Mr. Tuschak, after his return for concentration camp, being under short-term expulsion orders?
Inquiry will be made into this case and a reply will be sent to the right hon. and gallant Gentleman as soon as possible.
asked the Home Secretary whether he will make arrangements, by the employment of a larger staff or otherwise, to hasten decisions about admitting individual refugees to this country or other parts of the British Commonwealth?
As regards admission to the United Kingdom, the staff of the Home Office has been greatly enlarged, and various arrangements for simplifying the procedure have been made so as to enable applications made by the voluntary organisations for the admission of refugees to this country to be dealt with rapidly. As regards territories falling within the purview of the Colonial Office, I am informed by my right hon. Friend that he is not aware of any delay in granting permits to enter these territories provided the applicants are able to comply with the requirements of the immigration laws and regulations. The question of the admission of refugees to the self-governing Dominions is a matter for the Government of each Dominion.
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action the Government contemplate arising out of the report of the British Guiana Refugee Commission as to settlement in British Guiana?
I would invite the hon. Member's attention to the reply given by my right hon. Friend, the Prime Minister, on the 12th May to a question by the hon. Member for Don Valley (Mr. T. Williams), and to the reply which was given to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for York (Mr. Wood) on the 25th May.
Racecourse Betting Act (Totalisator Fund)
asked the Home Secretary, seeing that Section 3 (6) of the Racecourse Betting Act of 1928 provides that the Betting Control Board shall apply the moneys comprising the totalisator fund for the improvement of breeds of horses, or the sport of horse-racing, in accordance with the scheme approved by him, why he has approved the scheme set out in the board's report for 1938, under which only £16,150 is allocated for the improvement of breeds of horses, and £158,850 for the improvement of racecourses and racing; and whether, in connection with future allocations, he will ensure that a fairer balance is struck between the two allocations?
asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that for 1938 the Racecourse Betting Control Board allocated from the totalisator fund towards the improvement of racecourses and racing a sum approximately 10 times greater than that which they allocated towards the improvement of horse-breeding; and whether, in view of the economic importance of encouraging and improving the breeding of all types of horses in this country he will henceforward use the powers which he possesses under Sub-section (6) of Section 3 of the Racecourse Betting Act to ensure that in any future allocations from this fund the improvement of horse-breeding is regarded as of equal importance to the sport of horse-racing?
My right hon. Friend's approval to the board's proposals was given after he had satisfied himself that the board had allocated the available funds to the various objects specified in the Act in the manner which appeared most advantageous. In addition to the sum of £16,150, the board made grants amounting to £3,987 towards horse-breeding from moneys recovered from the Inland Revenue Department. I would point out that the amounts allocated by the board for the improvement of horse-racing and the increase of stake money also operate to the furtherance of light horse-breeding. I understand that in fact the field within which direct grants towards horse-breeding can be made by the board is limited, but if my hon. Friends have any specific proposals to make in the matter, my right hon. Friend will submit them to the board for their examination.
Silicosis
asked the Home Secretary whether he is now able to state when the Order extending the period of certification under the Various Industries (Silicosis) Schemes will be issued; whether he can state the provisions contained in the Order, and whether it will be made retrospective?
The amending Scheme was made on the 12th June and I understand that copies are now available at the Vote Office. The Scheme extends the limit in the proviso to paragraph 4 of the principal Scheme from three years to five. My right hon. Friend was advised that he had no power to make it retrospective. He has, however, suggested, through the Mining Association, that the colliery owners might undertake to deal with claims where the workman has been employed in the mines within the three years preceding the date of the amending Scheme, as if the limit in their case were five years and not three. I understand that this suggestion is under consideration.
asked the Home Secretary whether the number of miners disabled by silicosis is on the increase in Lancashire and Cheshire; and what action is being taken to lessen the toll of this disease?
I have been asked to reply. No cases have been certified among miners in Cheshire. As regards Lancashire, in the 7½ years between the 1st June, 1931, and the 31st December, 1938, the Medical Board granted 29 certificates for coal miners and three for sandstone miners. The average number of cases is about four per year and somewhat higher over the later years but fluctuations in such small figures make it difficult to say whether the incidence of the disease is increasing, bearing in mind that it usually takes a period of years to develop. The measures to suppress or collect dangerous dust are taken wherever necessary.
Police Forces (Increases)
asked the Home Secretary why the Home Office is seeking to compel local councils to increase their police forces, their police apparatus and, in some cases, their police buildings beyond local requirements, to comply with arbitrary standards that local circumstances do not require; and whether he will arrange for central grants to be scaled in future with a view to economy?
As regards the first part of the question, police authorities are required to increase the establishment or provide equipment or buildings for the police force only where necessary for the efficient maintenance of the police service in the police district concerned, and to comply with the conditions attached to the Exchequer grant. As regards the second part of the question, the grant is a fixed percentage of the approved net expenditure, and the conditions should be adequate to secure due economy.
Parliamentary Elections (Vacated Seats)
asked the Home Secretary whether he would consider altering the law governing parliamentary elections so that an elected representative who fails to take his seat within six months, except for medical reasons, shall be deemed to have vacated his seat?
I have noted the suggestion, but legislation on the lines indicated would not seem likely to be effective in the situation which I think my hon. Friend has in mind.
Noise Abatement (Wireless Loud Speakers)
asked the Home Secretary whether he will consider introducing amending legislation to give increased powers to the police to enable them to take more efficient action to prevent unnecessary noise from wireless loud speakers in populated areas, which is detrimental to the national health?
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to a question by the hon. Member for Leyton, West (Mr. Sorensen) on the 4th July last.
Workmen's Compensation
asked the Home Secretary whether he has considered the resolution on workmen's compensation passed at a conference in Edinburgh on 10th June, and sent him by the secretary of the Edinburgh and District Trades Council; and whether he proposes to take any action in relation to the six specific points to which his attention was called?
I have received this resolution, but I cannot add anything to my previous answers on this subject.
Home Office (Women Officers)
asked the Home Secretary what is the number of women of the administrative grade employed in the Home Office?
There are eight women officers in the administrative class employed in the Home Office.
Industrial Accidents
asked the Home Secretary whether he can give any information in connection with the lift accident at a warehouse in Wood Street, City, on Monday?
I understand that when the night watchman was descending in the lift a rat was caught between the suspension rope and the drum, causing the rope to slip. The safety gear then came into action, stopping the cage between two floors. The man's mate obtained help, and the cage was wound up to the floor above so that the watchman could get out. He was not hurt and there appeared to be no defect in the lift.
asked the Home Secretary whether he can give any information in connection with the left accident at a cafe at the Angel, Islington, on Monday?
I understand that this accident occurred to an employé at the café, who was cleaning out a small electrically operated service lift, when for some reason the lift ascended and trapped her right arm between a shelt of the lift and the top of the hatch opening. After treatment at the hospital the injured person was allowed to go home.
Aliens (Deportations)
asked the Home Secretary in how many of the 108 cases of aliens who, during the last year entered this country illegally, were deportation orders recommended, and in how many cases were the orders carried out?
Deportation orders were recommended by the courts in all 108 cases, and orders were made in 30. Thirteen of these orders were enforced, four of the aliens concerned made their own way out of the country, and in the remaining 13 cases it was found impracticable to enforce the orders. In 62 cases it was decided not to make orders, and 16 cases are still under consideration.
Inquest Delay (Whitchurch, Salop)
asked the Home Secretary whether he will inquire into the cause of the delay of three days in convening an inquest on the late Mr. Thomas Downward, 11, Black Park, Whit church, Salop; is he aware that this delay gave unnecessary anxiety to the deceased's family; and that the burial certificate was only received two hours before the time fixed for the funeral?
I am causing inquiries to be made and will communicate with my hon. and gallant Friend when they are completed.
Factory Act (Hours Of Work)
asked the Home Secretary what representations he has received from manufacturers asking him to suspend the coming into force of Section 71 of the 1937 Factory Act on 1st July, 1939, and to suspend Section 73; and what answer he has given?
I have no power to suspend either of these Sections; but Section 71 contains a provision that the coming into force of the Section is postponed as respects any particular industry where a public inquiry has been ordered but no final decision has been reached on the question of fixing for that industry a higher figure than 44 as the maximum number of working hours in a week for young persons under 16. A considerable number of applications for more hours than 44 has been received. Many have been refused or withdrawn; in the case of some industries inquiries have been or are to be held; and in the case of some others the question of directing an inquiry is now under consideration. Under Section 73 there is power to extend within certain limits the overtime permissible. Regulations for that purpose have been made for various classes of factory, and applications from some other industries for such regulations are still under consideration.
Old Age Pensions (Public Assistance)
asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the number of persons in receipt of old age pensions, and the number of their dependants, who are receiving public assistance relief in the borough of Bilston and the urban districts of Sedgeley and Coseley, Staffordshire; the estimated annual cost to be met out of rates; and the block grants and the equivalent rate per £?
I regret that the information desired is not available. The return which I obtained from the local authorities in regard to the number of old age pensioners in receipt of poor relief, and the cost of that relief, did not contain particulars for separate parts of an administrative county.
asked the Minister of Health how many persons are in receipt of non-contributory old age pensions and contributory old age pensions in the city of Nottingham and in the county of Nottinghamshire respectively; how many of these are in receipt of public assistance; and what is the cost per annum to the ratepayers, giving separate figures in each case?
I regret that the information asked for in the first part of the question is not available, as the records of old age pensioners are not kept on a territorial basis, and that I cannot give separate figures for the two classes of pensioners. During the week ended the nth March last the number of old age pensioners under the Old Age Pensions Act, 1936, and the Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Contributory Pensions Act, 1936, who were in receipt of outdoor relief in the city and county of Nottingham were 2,897 and 2,460 respectively. The estimated annual cost of out-relief to old age pensioners and their dependants falling to be met out of rates and the block grants is about £60,000 for the city and about £45,000 for the county.
Diphtheria
asked the Minister of Health whether he will ascertain the year in which immunisation against diphtheria was introduced into Quebec City, and in what years the 10,000 immunisations estimated to have been performed in that city were carried out?
I will make inquiries and will communicate with the hon. Member.
asked the Minister of Health how many immunised children have developed diphtheria in the Easington Rural District since immunisation was started; and how many fatal cases have occurred?
I am making inquiries and will communicate with the hon. Member.
asked the Minister of Health whether any children who had been inoculated against diphtheria in Croydon subsequently developed that disease; and whether there have been any fatal cases amongst these children?
I am making inquiries and will communicate with the hon. Member.
Port Medical Officers (Reports)
asked the Minister of Health how many port medical officers of health have sent him their reports for the year 1938, and how many reports are still outstanding?
The answer to the first part of the question is 40, and to the second part 62.
Rural Water Supply, Wales
asked the Minister of Health whether he has taken recent steps to urge the provision of adequate water supplies in the rural areas of Wales; and what financial aid will be made by his Department?
During my recent tours in the rural areas of Wales I lost no opportunity of impressing upon representatives of local authorities the desirability of securing the provision of adequate water supplies in their areas. I cannot, however, at present hold out any prospect of legislation authorising further special financial aid for these supplies.
Casual Ward, Rawcliffe
asked the Minister of Health whether he will give consideration to the proposal to erect a central casual ward at Rawcliffe by the West Riding County Council, and to the strong protest that has been made against this proposal by the Rawcliffe Parish Council and the resident local government electors on the grounds that it would spoil the amenities of the village, the proposed site is unsuitable, and existing conditions are fully adequate to meet present-day needs?
I informed the Rawcliffe Parish Council on the 12th June that, after careful consideration of their representations, I did not feel justified in withholding my consent to the county council's proposals, and I have issued to the county council my formal sanction to the appropriation of the site for the purpose proposed.
Contributory Pensions
asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the number of persons who are getting their cards franked at the Employment Exchange but, through not having completed the 10 years' contributory period, have to join as voluntary contributors to the Widows', Orphans' and Old Age Pensions Scheme or they will lose their claim to old age pension?
Figures an: not available as to the number of insured persons who on becoming unemployed have not been in insurance for 10 years and are not therefore entitled to further extension of insurance after the free period has expired. The majority of these persons will, however, be in the lower age groups and if they do not become voluntary contributors will re-enter the contributory pensions scheme on resuming employment.
asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the number of voluntary contributors to the Widows,' Orphans' and Old Age Contributory Pensions Scheme?
Approximately 1,350,000 persons are insured as voluntary contributors under the contributory pensions scheme, of whom 460,000 are insured under the new scheme of voluntary pensions insurance introduced by the Act of 1937.
Local Authorities Contracts
asked the Minister of Health whether he will specify the grounds upon which his Department is prepared to consider permitting a local authority to accept a tender other than the lowest tender?
Without attempting to enumerate exhaustively the reasons which might properly justify the acceptance of a tender other than the lowest, I should be prepared to agree to the acceptance of such a tender if the local authority
satisfied me that there were reasonable grounds for believing that the contractor who had submitted the lowest tender could not complete the work at the tender price without sacrifice of quality.
Market Abergavenny
asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the expressed desire of a large number of ratepayers of Abergavenny for a public inquiry into the proposed expenditure of £20,000 for the improvement of the market of that town; and what steps does he propose to take in regard thereto?
No such desire was conveyed to me when I was considering the application, and before I issued my sanction to the borrowing of the necessary loans in April last I satisfied myself that there had been no criticism of the scheme of a character requiring local investigation by public inquiry. In the circumstances I do not propose to take any further action.
Tuberculosis, Wales And Monmouthshire
asked the Minister of Health whether he is now in a position to make a statement as to his proposals for dealing with the causes of the high incidence of tuberculosis in Wales and Monmouthshire as revealed in the report of the Committee into Anti-Tuberculosis Services in Wales and Monmouthshire?
As I have indicated in reply to previous questions, I am in communication on the report generally with the local authorities and bodies concerned, and any general statement must await completion of these consultations. Meantime, I would refer to the answers given to the hon. Member for Llanelly (Mr. J. Griffiths) on the 8th June, and to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Cardiff, South (Captain Evans) on the 11th May, as to the immediate action which I have taken in regard to the increase of hospital accommodation for tuberculosis and the improvement of housing conditions.
Housing (Clearance Orders)
asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider the difficulties that arise in the case of a well-
built building, sometimes of artistic merit, which has been the subject of a clearance order, as distinct from a demolition order, passed by the inspector and approved by the Minister, when, subsequently, it has been found that the building can be put to good use for other purposes but it is impossible to raise money to demolish and then rebuild a structure not required as a dwelling; and whether he will take powers to reconsider cases which the local authority and owner submit to the Ministry for the reconstruction of the place after the clearance order has been issued?
The existing law affords to the owner of property included in a clearance order full opportunity for the making of representations that the property should be excluded from the order, and I give careful consideration to such representations including any proposals submitted for reconditioning before arriving at my decision on the order. Special provision for the protection of buildings of artistic interest is contained in Section 142 of the Housing Act, 1936.In the circumstances I am not satisfied of the need for the introduction of the amending legislation which the suggestion of my hon. Friend would involve.
Civil Service (Staff Groups Statistics)
asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will give the number of men and women, respectively, employed in each of the following staff groups of the Civil Service as on the 1st April, 1937, 1st April, 1938, and 1st April, 1939; administrative, general executive, general clerical, writing assistant, established shorthand ' typist and typist, other executive, departmental clerical, unestablished clerical, unestablished typing, assessors, collectors of taxes, etc., inspectorate, professional, scientific and technical, subordinate supervisory and technical, minor and manipulative, messengers, porters, cleaners, etc.?
The statement below gives the figures of non-industrial staffs employed in Government Departments as on 1st April, 1937, and 1st April, 1938. I regret that the figures for the current year are not yet available.
| Staff Group. | 1st April, 1938. | 1st April, 1938 | ||||||||||
| Established. | Others. | Total. | Established. | Others. | Total. | |||||||
| Male. | Female. | Male. | Female. | Male. | Female. | Male. | Female. | Male. | Female. | Male. | Female. | |
| Administrative | 1,856 | 34 | 53 | 1 | 1,909 | 35 | 1,924 | 41 | 68 | 1 | 1,992 | 42 |
| General Executive | 4,310 | 300 | 29 | — | 4,339 | 300 | 4,406 | 337 | 67 | — | 4,473 | 337 |
| Other Executive | 12,096 | 543 | 379 | 7 | 12,475 | 550 | 12,276 | 569 | 389 | 5 | 12,665 | 574 |
| General Clerical | 28,312 | 9,718 | 5,488 | 1,711 | 33,800 | 11,429 | 29,161 | 10,647 | 6,216 | 2,278 | 35,377 | 12,925 |
| Other Clerical | 24,985 | 4,012 | 8,597 | 653 | 33,582 | 4,665 | 27,434 | 4,175 | 8,398 | 311 | 35,832 | 4,486 |
| Clerical Assistants | — | 10,230 | — | 198 | — | 10,428 | — | 12,590 | — | 1,047 | — | 13,637 |
| Typing Grades | 34 | 9,585 | 16 | 2,616 | 50 | 12,201 | 31 | 10,598 | 13 | 2,767 | 44 | 13,365 |
| Inspectorate | 2,028 | 449 | 876 | 14 | 2,904 | 463 | 2,316 | 466 | 1,485 | 17 | 3,801 | 483 |
| Professional Scientific and Technical. | 5,940 | 67 | 3,55 | 43 | 9,490 | 110 | 6,267 | 81 | 4,I51 | 49 | 10,418 | 130 |
| Subordinate Supervisory and Technical. | 8,238 | 268 | 8,416 | 966 | 16,654 | 1,234 | 8,671 | 335 | 11,164 | 1,097 | 19835 | 1,432 |
| Minor and Manipulative | 97,580 | 27,423 | — | 17,687 | 148,633 | 45,110 | 103,412 | 29,671 | 50,258 | 17,305 | 153,670 | 46,976 |
| Messengers, Porters, Women Cleaners, etc. | 1,102 | 17 | 10,579 | 8,618 | 11,681 | 8,635 | 1,149 | 15 | 12,062 | 9,116 | 13,211 | 9,131 |
| Unestablished Assessors, Collectors, Distributors and Clerks to Commissioners of Income Tax. | — | — | 776 | 14 | 776 | 14 | — | — | 779 | 14 | 779 | 14 |
| Totals | 186,481 | 62,646 | 89,812 | 32,528 | 276,293 | 95,174 | 197,047 | 69,525 | 95,050 | 34,007 | 292,097 | 103,532 |
The above figures exclude:—Staffs engaged on Reserved and Agency Services in Ireland, numbering 4,965 on 1st April, 1937 and 5031 on 1st April, 1938, as their cost is met finally from Irish Reserves. | ||||||||||||
| Locally entered staffs abroad. | ||||||||||||
| Ministry of Labour Branch Managers, who are paid by fees, numbering 455 on 1st April, 1937, and Branch Managers and Local Agents numbering 453 and 400 respectively on 1st April, 1938. | ||||||||||||
National Health Insurance
Loss Of Rights
asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the number of persons who have lost all medical and pension rights under the National Health Insurance Acts, owing to prolonged unemployment; and whether he contemplates the taking of such action that will remove this hardship on these unfortunate persons?
I am aware that prior to the passing of the National Health Insurance and Contributory Pensions Act of 1935 insured persons were in danger of loss of all health insurance and pension rights by reason of prolonged unemployment. The hon. Member will, however, remember that under that Act generous provision was made to avoid such a loss of rights and no such loss can now arise in the case of any person who has been insured for 10 years before becoming unemployed. I have no figures as to the number of persons whose insurance has been terminated after the free period of about 21 months by reason of their not having satisfied the 10 years condition, but I cannot consider that the circumstances are such as to call for amending legislation.
Contributions And Expenditure
asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the total contributions and the total expenditure in granting the various benefits under the National Health Insurance Acts in Great Britain for the last complete year, and the total cost of administration?
The total amount of the health insurance contributions paid by employers and employed persons in Great Britain for the year ended 31st December, 1938, was approximately £29,859,000, and for that year the total amount of the expenditure on the several health insurance benefits was approximately £33,961,000. The total cost of administration (including the Central Departments' administration) was approximately £5,968,000.
Military Training
Local Authorities' Employés
asked the Minister of Health whether he can give the reasons why he will not allow the local authorities
to pay their employés called up for training under the Military Training Act, 1939, the difference between the pay allowed by the Government and the wages or salaries paid by the local authorities?
asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider steps for additional encouragement of employés of local authorities called up for training under the Military Training Act by authorising local authorities to pay the difference between their service pay and their civil pay in a similar manner to their employés to whom the Reserve and Auxiliary Forces Act applies; whether he is aware that the Newport Corporation have already unanimously adopted resolutions to this effect in anticipation of his favourable decision; and will he approve this local action?
As regards the general attitude of the Government on this matter and the reasons for distinguishing in this respect between militiamen on the one hand and Territorials and Reservists on the other, I would refer the hon. Member to what was said in the course of the Debate last night. As regards the Newport Corporation I fear it would not be possible to make an exception as suggested.
Solicitors' Articled Clerks
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a number of the members of the Territorial forces are articled clerks of solicitors, and that in the ordinary course they will sit for the final examination to be held later in this year; and whether he will arrange that their period of military training may be postponed until after such final examination has been held in order to avoid the serious prejudice to their careers which might otherwise occur?
It has been decided that no exemptions should be given to any officer or man of a Territorial Army unit called out under the Reserve and Auxiliary Forces Act, 1939, but commanding officers may grant leave within certain limits.
asked the Minister of Labour whether he has now made inquiries into the decision of the Law Society that solicitors articled clerks liable to training under the Military Training
Act will, upon their return from training, have to serve a further period of six months under new articles which may involve payment of a further premium; and whether, in the regulations he proposes to make, provision will be made for ensuring that the six months training shall count as part of the period of apprenticeship or, at any rate, the clerk shall not be compelled to pay any additional premium, seeing there are nearly 40 such clerks involved in the Sheffield and Rotherham district?
The inquiries which I am making into this particular case are not yet complete, but I will write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.
Civilian Employment
Mr. McGovern asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Thomas Corrie, 14, Thornhill Street, Parkhead, Glasgow, was dismissed from the services of Messrs. Louden and Inglis, building contractors, Coatbridge, on 17th June, where he had been employed as a cement finisher for over two years; that his employers were continually inquiring as to when he would be going for service as a militiaman and complaining that the uncertainty was disorganising the department; and what steps he intends to take to protect this registered militiaman of 20 years of age?
I have no information about this particular case, but am making inquiry. If the hon. Member has any particulars I shall be glad to receive them at once.
asked the Minister of Labour what are the results of his inquiries in the case of Fred Vernon, of 4, Riddings, Thurcroft, near Rotherham, who was discharged from his work by Messrs. Rodgers and Sons, plasterers, of Rotherham, on 3rd June, 1939, the same day that he enlisted under the Military Training Act; and, as this is a violation of the Military Training Act, what action he proposes to take?
A letter which I have received from this young man's employers, and of which I will send a copy to the hon. Member, indicates that he was dismissed for slackness and insolence, and that the termination of his employment had no connection with his liability for military training.
University Students
asked the Minister of Labour whether he can make any statement about the arrangements under the Military Training Act for boys intending to proceed to the universities?
I would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to-day to an oral question on this matter standing in the name of the hon. Member for Tamworth (Sir J. Mellor).
Trade And Commerce
Great Britain And Brazil
asked the Secretary for the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware that his departmental report on Brazil, No. 723, dated December, 1938, was not available to the public till May, 1939, and will he arrange for a shorter interval in future between date and publication; and also that future reports shall contain less budgetary and statistical tables, and more detailed information as to specific openings in Brazil for British productions, similar to that contained in his Department's last report on Argentina?
It is my constant endeavour to secure that such reports are made available as soon as possible after their receipt, but it is generally necessary to consider them and to consult other Departments of His Majesty's Government before they can be published. Moreover, though they deal with events up to a particular date (in this case 31st December) they obviously cannot actually be written until some little time afterwards. The suggestions made in the second part of the question will be borne in mind. It is, however, often advisable not to bring specific openings for trade to the notice of United Kingdom traders in published reports, which are available to their competitors, but to use other channels.
Leather Gloves (Exports To Sweden)
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will state the number and value of leather gloves exported to Sweden during each of the years 1936, 1937, 1938, and for the latest available period in the year 1939?
The following statement shows the quantity and declared value
of leather gloves,* of United Kingdom manufacture, exported from this country and consigned to Sweden during the periods specified.
| Period. | Quantity. | Declared Value. |
| Dozen pairs. | £ | |
| Year: 1936 | 544 | 1,563 |
| 1937 | 694 | 2,134 |
| 1938 | 744 | 2,079 |
| January to May, 1939. | 271 | 594 |
* Gloves made in whole or in part of leather, and leather shaped for making into gloves, but not including gloves known as astrakhan gloves or gloves in which leather is used only as trimming or binding. | ||
Civil Defence
Food Control Committees
asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether consideration has been given to the desirability of having small shopkeepers on all food councils, whether appointed by the Government direct or by public authorities under Government supervision?
In the case of the food control committees, which would be set up in the areas of local authorities in time of war, the proposed constitution provides that, while representing in the main the consumers, the committee should include some members engaged in retail trades in the areas. In the case of the advisory committees which have been appointed to assist in the formulation of schemes for the control of food supplies and distribution in the event of war, the intention has been to secure the advice of persons with practical knowledge of the trades primarily concerned. In some cases the membership includes representatives of retail organisations, but a number of committees are dealing solely with bulk supplies and wholesale distribution. I can assure my hon. Friend that his point is carefuly borne in mind in all cases.
British Red Cross Society
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Stroud Branch of the British Red Cross Society incurred considerable expenditure at the request of his Department during the crisis of September, 1938; and whether this expenditure has yet been paid by his Department?
A grant in aid of the expenditure incurred by voluntary aid detachments is about to be made to the Voluntary Aid Detachment Council.
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will consider the desirability of a grant to the central headquarters and county headquarters of the British Red Cross Society to cover the expense involved in increased work for the enrolment and training of individuals for Civil Defence?
For some years past a grant has been made to the Central Headquarters of the British Red Cross Society in respect of the work which they have undertaken in connection with the training of volunteers for the Civil Defence Services. In view of representations that have been received the financial arrangements with the society are now being reviewed again by my Department and the Ministry of Health.
Tenements, Scotland (Air-Raid Shelters)
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether it is the intention of the Government to make provision whereby proprietors of tenement property in Scotland must provide air-raid shelters where such shelters are demanded by more than 50 per cent of the tenants; and what steps it is proposed to take to ensure that proprietors and trusts who have no available funds, are enabled to fulfil their statutory duties?
When Clause 30 of the Civil Defence Bill was under discussion at the Report stage last week, I expressed the view that there might be need for some amendment of the Clause in another place, where the Bill is now being considered. The hon. Member will appreciate that I am not in a position at present to give a definite reply to his question.
Arp Volunteers
asked the Lord Privy Seal what grant is payable on moneys expended on social activities on behalf of voluntary air-raid precautions workers?
Local authorities are encouraged to provide social amenities for A.R.P. volunteers, and approved expenditure on the provision of accommodation and reasonable furniture ranks for grant at the rate applicable to other approved A.R.P. expenditure of the authority concerned.
Protective Clothing Contracts
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he has now been able to make arrangements with manufacturers of protective clothing to give priority to firms in vulnerable areas?
The arrangements which are being made by the Government will ensure that as far as possible priority will be given to industries in the specified areas.
Fire-Fighting Floats, River Thames
asked the Lord Privy Seal (1) whether he can give the total number of men required to man the fire-fighting boats to be provided for the protection of London in war-time; how many have already enrolled, and what number of these men are fully equipped and trained;(2) whether he can state the number of fire-fighting boats which are to be provided on the Thames; and how many of this number are already in commission and fully manned?
Discussions are proceeding as to the total number of floats and crews which will be required for emergency fire-fighting on the River Thames. There are at present in commission three peace-time fire floats and three emergency fire floats, and I am informed that the London Fire Brigade have recruited a total of approximately 600 auxiliary firemen for river service, of whom about 350 are fully trained and equipped.
Compensation For Injuries
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether any scheme introduced for the payment of compensation to members of the Civil Defence services who may be killed or injured during peace-time training will be submitted by him to the Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies for his certificate that such scheme provides scales of compensation not less favourable to the members and their dependants than the corresponding scales contained in the Workmen's Compensation Acts?
No, Sir. If, as I presume, my hon. Friend has in mind Section 31 of the Workmen's Compensation Act, 1925, which imposes certain duties on the
Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies, I cannot agree that the circumstances are analogous to those which obtain in the case to which that Section applies.
Air-Raid Wardens (Women)
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether it is open to scheme-making authorities to appoint women as air-raid wardens on a whole-time basis?
Yes, Sir. The wardens' service is intended to comprise both men and women among its personnel, and large numbers of women have shown their public spirit by joining it. It is certainly intended that scheme-making authorities should include among their whole-time warden personnel a proportion of suitable women to serve on such duties as may be appropriate.
Air-Raid Shelters
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he can inform the House as to the number of air-raid shelters allotted to Doncaster, Barnsley, Rotherham and York, respectively, how many of such are being delivered free in each place, and whether delivery has been completed in all or any of these places?
These shelters are being allotted first to those areas which are considered most exposed to risk of attack; and of the towns mentioned by the hon. Member only Rotherham has been included in the first priority lists. The local authority there has been asked to furnish the delivery particulars required and if these are received in time delivery of the shelters allocated should begin next month.
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he is aware that of two families living in Shettleston Housing Scheme one of husband and wife only and having an income of £245 per year is given a steel shelter free, and the next-door neighbour, with eight children under 14 years of age, and having an income of £260 per year is refused a steel shelter and informed that he must purchase one; and whether he will take steps to provide the necessary shelters for all families free of charge?
On the facts as stated by the hon. Member the householders referred to in the question would both be entitled under the Government arrangements to a free shelter. If he will be good enough to send me particulars of the case I will have inquiries made locally. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.
asked the Lord Privl Seal (1) whether he has considered the circular recently issued by the Westminster City Council to householders informing them that His Majesty's Government expect all householders who are not elegible for the free issue of air-raid shelters to make private arrangements to provide themselves with shelter-protection and that the materials required must be obtained from ordinary trade sources; whether His Majesty's Government have abandoned their policy of supplying shelters at cost price to householders who are not eligible for the free issue; and, if so, whether this applies to all areas;(2) what is the Government's policy in regard to the provision against payment for steel shelters and materials for the strengthening of basements to householders who are not eligible for the free issue; in what areas such provision has been made; and whether priority is given to both categories of householders in the more vulnerable areas over those in less vulnerable areas?
It has always been the policy of the Government that the steel shelters which are being manufactured on Government contract should not be made available for purchase until substantial deliveries have been made to householders who live in the areas most exposed to attack and are eligible to receive them free of charge. As soon as this stage has been reached, a public announcement will be made regarding the price and the method of purchase. There has been no change of policy in this respect. No similar arrangements have been contemplated in connection with the supply of materials for the strengthening of basements. I am aware of the circular issued by the Westminster City Council and, so far as it urges those who are in a position to do so to provide themselves with shelter as speedily as possible I am in agreement with it.
asked the Lord Privy Seal, in view of the decision of the Government that, whilst splinter-proof and blast-proof shelter is in general adequate, deep or re-
inforced shelter protection is necessary in cases where the danger is abnormally great; and how many schemes for such deep shelters have been sanctioned by his Department, and where?
I would refer my hon. Friend to my statement on 20th April, in which I said that it would rest with the Government to indicate, through the appropriate Departments, in what cases more heavily protected shelter is considered desirable in. the interests of all concerned. The examination of these cases has begun and action will be taken first in those cases which are regarded as the most urgent.
Water Supplies
asked the Lord Privy Seal what precautionery measures are taken to protect the vital water supplies of the country?
Part V of the Civil Defence Bill deals with measures to be taken by water undertakings for ensuring their due functioning in time of war, and substantial progress has already been made towards the completion of schemes examined and approved by my Department.
asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he is now satisfied that adequate provisions have been made for the protection of the reservoirs of the Birmingham Waterworks at Elan Valley and of certain sections of the pipe-line which may be possible objectives in an air raid?
Officers of my Department and of the Ministry of Health have been in consultation with the Birmingham Corporation and in November last approval was given to a scheme of protection designed to secure the due functioning of the water undertaking in time of war.
Gas Masks
asked the Lord Privy Seal what is the average effective life of the contents of containers of civilian gas masks, which have been distributed to the people, and when kept under proper conditions?
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on the 8th June to a question on this subject by the hon. Member for Camlachie (Mr. Stephen)
Arp Badge
asked the Lord Privy-Seal why officers and staffs of county hospitals and institutions who have taken the essential courses of training and passed examinations in connection with air-raid precautions are not being issued with air-raid precautions badges?
The air-raid precautions badge is intended as a recognition of the obligations undertaken by persons who volunteer for local authorities' and other air-raid precautions services and persons who take special courses of training in order to enable them to carry out their normal duties under war time conditions are not, merely by reason of their having undergone such training, eligible for the badge. I understand, however, that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health has under consideration the question of providing some other special form of recognition for the staffs of hospitals and institutions in such circumstances as are mentioned in the question.
South Africa (Taxation)
asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he will obtain information as to the existing rates of Income Tax, and also of Surtax and Death Duties in the Union of South Africa?
The information asked for is to be found in certain Acts of the Union of South Africa and in a pamphlet issued by the Union Government. I am sending copies of these to my hon. Friend.
Royal Navy
Mechanical Training Establishment
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what is the number of boys entered from industrial life with over 2½years' previous mechanical training now in the "Caledonia" training establishment; what is their fortnightly rate of payment during their first and second years; the amount of weekly deductions therefrom for laundry, National Health Insurance, boot and clothing repairs, etc.; and how these deductions are made?
The reply to the first part of the question is 198. The rate of
pay of these boys is 1s. 6d. a day (21s. a fortnight) during their first year and 2s. a day (28s. a fortnight) during the second year, plus an allowance for kit upkeep of approximately 5s. a fortnight in each year. No deduction is made for National Health Insurance but in common with all naval ratings they are liable for contribution at the rate of 5½d. a week in respect of Widows', Orphans and Old Age Contributory Pensions Insurance. The amount of the deductions for articles of uniform, etc., taken up on repayment, laundry, boot and clothing repairs, library subscriptions, cost of admission to social entertainments, etc., varies.
Fortnightly advances are paid calculated on pay and kit upkeep allowance less the deductions mentioned: the normal rate of advance is 14s. during the first year and 20s. during the second year, but these are supplemented by an additional double payment, where the boy has an appropriate credit, at some time during the quarter. The average fortnightly advance is thus 18s. 8d. in the first year and 26s. 8d. in the second year. The deductions are made by charging the items to the boy's account monthly or quarterly.
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty how many apprentices were sent to the several mechanical training establishments, respectively, during 1938; how many from the south of the Midlands were sent to Chatham; and how many from the north of the Midlands to Rosyth?
The numbers of apprentices sent to the mechanical training establishments in 1938 were:
| His Majesty's Ship "Caledonia" at at Rosyth | 193 |
| Mechanical Training Establishment, Chatham | 136 |
| Royal Air Force Training Establishment, Halton (Air Apprentices) | 50 |
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what concession is granted to first and second-year apprentices for railway fares to those in "Caledonia" training establishments; whether apprentices can remain in the ship during leave periods if they so desire; whether those with insufficient money are given assistance to pay railway fares to their homes; and, if so, from what fund is the assistance given and how repaid?
There are three leave periods a year in "Caledonia." First-year and second-year apprentices are allowed free return railway journeys to their homes twice a year; at the third leave period, they can obtain tickets from the railway company at the reduced rate of ordinary single fare for the return journey.Every encouragement is given to apprentices to take their leave when it is due because of the importance to their health and morale of a change in environment. No occasion has yet arisen for any apprentices to remain on board but there is no rule against it.The regulations governing the issue of money to first and second-year apprentices provide for the balance of their pay, after the issue of the pocket money for which they are eligible and any allotment
| — | Interviewed by Fleet Selection Boards. | Recommended by Fleet Selection Boards. | Recommended by Final Selection Boards. | ||
| Portsmouth Command | … | … | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Plymouth Command | … | … | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| The More Command | … | … | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Home Fleet | … | … | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Totals | … | … | 8 | 7 | 6 |
Royal United Service Institution
asked the First Commissioner of Works (1) whether the Royal United Service Institution have accepted the proposals made by the Government in regard to the property in Whitehall at present under lease to them; and, if not, what steps he is taking to reach agreement as to terms, it being recognised that the members of the institution, with few exceptions, are anxious to conform to the scheme provided their interests are safeguarded, in view of the position of the institute as trustee for many interesting relics, etc.;(2) Whether he can state how far the negotiations have proceeded for the trans- to their parents or deposit in the Savings Bank, to be accumulated for their benefit and it is from this source that they pay their railway fares.
Engine Room Artificers (Commissions)
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will state the number of engine room artificer candidates for commissions who are qualified educationally and professionally; the number of candidates who this year have appeared before Fleet Selection Boards; where these boards were held and the result; and the number of candidates who are to be promoted to sublieutenant (E) on 1st July?
Ten engine room artificers were qualified by examination and age for promotion to commissioned rank; of these eight were recommended and appeared before the recent Fleet Selection Boards. Details of the boards are as follows:fer to his Department's charge of the banqueting hall in Whitehall, now on lease to the Royal United Service Institution as a museum; and if arrangements have been made to provide in the building to occupy the Montague House and Whitehall Gardens site suitable alternative accommodation, thus taking advantage of the present opportunity of restoring for public use a building of exceptional merit?
The possibility of obtaining the use of the Banqueting House, Whitehall, and the adjacent property for Government purposes has certainly been under consideration in the past, but no concrete scheme has yet been prepared and no negotiations have taken place with the Royal United Service Institution, or are at the moment in prospect, as to the terms upon which they might give up possession of the premises in question.
It would not be possible to accommodate the institution in the new building to occupy the Whitehall Gardens site, as it will be wholly required for Government staffs.
Auxiliary Air Force (Married Officers)
asked the Secretary of State for Air why, for the purpose of allowances as laid down in A.M. Pamphlet 64 married officers of the balloon squadron of the Auxiliary Air Force are regarded as unmarried; and whether he will see that in the future these married officers shall receive all the allowances to which any married officer is entitled?
Officers who are called out for service under the Reserve and Auxiliary Forces Act are eligible for married rates of accommodation allowances under the same conditions as for Regular officers. Officers attending for short-period training in the ordinary way do not normally have to change their arrangements for the accommodation of their families and accordingly do not receive allowances on this account. I am considering whether any relaxation of this rule would be justifiable in special circumstances.
British Army
Hutment Camps, Ewshot
asked the Secretary of State for War whether tenders were obtained for the erection of hutment camps at Ewshot, Hampshire, and elsewhere, or whether the work is being carried out on a percentage basis, and if the latter, what the percentage is?
Owing to extreme urgency, contracts for the hutted camps in the Ewshot neighbourhood were placed without competitive tendering with a firm known to be in a position to start the work immediately. Some of the contracts were placed at lump sum prices, variable in respect of authorised changes in wages rates. In others, the contractor's remuneration is calculated as a percentage of an estimate of the prime cost, together with a bonus if the contractor keeps the prime cost below the estimate.It would be contrary to practice to disclose the contractor's prices, but they com- pare favourably with those of other contracts placed for similar work at about the same time after competitive tendering. Contracts placed for hutted camps elsewhere have usually been allotted as the result of competitive tenderings.
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that boys under 18 years of age are working over 80 hours a week, including Sundays, on the new hutment camp at Ewshot, Hampshire; and whether he will take steps to ensure that this is not done when further contracts are placed?
I am informed that boys under 18 years of age employed by the contractor at this camp are working 65 hours a week, and that they do not work on Sundays.
National Defence Companies
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the advisability of increasing the pay of members of National Defence companies who, when wanted in an emergency, as at present arranged will only receive 2s. per day plus 17s. weekly separation allowance, to at least to the same level of £3 per week paid to the air-raid precautions and police reserve, seeing that most of these men have various commitments and have extensive war service qualifications and, therefore, should not be treated as recruits?
If called up for service, members of the National Defence companies will receive pay and allowances, according to their rank and other circumstances, on exactly the same scale as other members of the Territorial Army. The soldier's emoluments as a whole do not compare unfavourably with those of air-raid precautions workers.
Unemployment
New Armament Factories
asked the Minister of Labour what number of men were employed in new or extended armament factories from 1935 to latest available date, giving each year separately, also England, Scotland and Wales, separately?
I regret that this information is not available.
South Wales
asked the Minister of Labour whether he will investigate the resources of South Wales, particularly the distressed areas where industries have closed down, with a view of setting up new industries to maintain the social amenities already in existence, which is a liability upon local authorities?
The resources of South Wales are kept under review from day to day by the Commissioner for the Special Areas, and his efforts continue to be directed towards the establishment of new industries in that area.
Disallowed Benefit (W Callaghan)
asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Mr. W. Callaghan, 113, Causewayside Street, Tollcross, Glasgow, on being suspended from Messrs. Colville's works at Clyde-side, was paid holiday money of eight or nine days, and was then refused unemployment benefit from 27th May to 3rd June inclusive; that he has now resumed work, and if still working at the ordinary holiday period will be refused unemployment benefit; and what he intends doing to remedy such an anomaly?
I am making inquiries and will write to the hon. Member.
Transport
Road Accidents (Statistics)
asked the Minister of Transport whether he will state the number of accidents involving death or injury caused by motor vehicles in the years 1910, 1920, 1930, and for the latest year for which records are complete; and the number of motor vehicles on the roads during the corresponding years?
The annual statistics of road accidents do not give particulars of causes of accidents. Analyses of the causes of road accidents are contained in the following publications:Report on Fatal Road Accidents which occurred during the year 1933.Report on Fatal Road Accidents which occurred during the year 1935.Report on Road Accidents in Great Britain involving Personal Injury (Fatal and Non-Fatal) Year ended 31st March, 1937.
The numbers of mechanically-propelled vehicles in Great Britain were:
Year.
| Number of Vehicles.
|
| 1910 | *145,000 |
| 1920 | *650,000 |
| 1930 | †2,287,326 |
| 1938 | †3,093,884 |
*Estimated. | |
| † Licences current during quarter ended 30th September. | |
Pedestrian Crossings
asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the number of accidents which occur on pedestrian crossings where pedestrians are unable to see the traffic lights, he can arrange to carry out one or more experiments in providing at the kerb-end of all such crossings, illuminated studs which will light up alternately with green and red lights, in order to assist pedestrians in knowing whether or not it is safe for them to use the crossings in question?
An additional signal face is already provided on the standard itself at a number of crossings where the pedestrian traffic warrants it, and I consider that this is preferable to the insertion of illuminated studs in the kerb, which would be liable to be obscured at times by mud. I must emphasise that, in any case, dependence on the lights alone does not guarantee the pedestrian full protection from turning traffic.
Level Crossings
asked the Minister of Transport how many level crossings have been abolished during the past five years; in how many cases work is in progress; and how many level crossing abolition schemes are at present before the Ministry?
Since the 1st April, 1934 37 level crossings have been eliminated or avoided. In 20 other cases works are now in progress and 32 further schemes are at present under consideration.
By-Pass, Hartley Row, Hampshire
asked the Minister of Transport whether a decision has been reached in regard to the three alternative routes that have been under consideration in connection with the proposed construction of a by-pass at Hartley Row, in Hampshire on the London to Land's End trunk road; and, if so, whether he will state the exact route of the new by-pass from Hartford Bridge Flats in the south-west direction by Hartford Bridge and Hartley Row?
Alternative proposals are under investigation, but I am not yet in a position to define the route likely to be adopted. When a line of route has been decided upon, notice of the proposals will be given to the parties con by means of an Order under Sub(3) of Section 1 of the Trunk Roads Act, 1936.
Agriculture
Government Policy
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether His Majesty's Government are satisfied that they have now fulfilled the pledge to do whatever was necessary for agriculture after consultation with the National Farmers' Union and, if not, what further legislation is anticipated and when it is likely to be introduced?
With regard to the first part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to my observations on the Second Reading of the Agricultural Development Bill, in which I dealt at some length with the point which he raises. I have no further statement to make at this stage in reply to the second part of the question.
Fighting Forces (Meat Supply)
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has brought to the notice of the purchasing departments of meat for His Majesty's forces the urgency of buying National Mark beef in the interests of home agriculture, and to ensure that British soldiers, sailors, and airmen, will be fed on home-produced meat?
No, Sir. As the hon. Member was informed on 27th June last by the Financial Secretary to the Treasury financial and administrative difficulties make it impossible to depart from the present policy of relying mainly on Dominion supplies of meat. This question has been fully considered by successive Governments and since imports from both foreign and Dominion sources are controlled in relation to total anticipated supplies, the supply of home-killed meat to the forces would be unlikely to affect the market situation.
Bacon Industry
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he proposes to introduce amending legislation to the Bacon Indus Act in order to ensure a better response in the coming year to the Pigs Marketing Scheme?
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on 19th June to my hon. Friend the Member for Stockport (Sir A. Gridley).
Fishing Industry (Statistics)
asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will state the number of men employed in the fishing industry in 1914, 1924, 1930 and 1938?
According to the available statistics, the total numbers of persons engaged in fishing in Great Britain in the years in question were as follow:
| Year. | Numbers of Fishermen. | Total. | |
| Regularly Employed. | Occasionally-Employed | ||
| 1914 | 66,200 | 11,596 | 77,796 |
| 1924 | 59.029 | 5,456 | 64,485 |
| 1930 | 53,819 | 4,638 | 58,457 |
| 1938 | 43,105 | 3,821 | 46,926 |
Saffron Walden County Court (Ejection Order)
asked the Aitomey-General, on how many occasions Mrs. Gortie has applied to the Saffron Walden county court for ejection orders?
Once, Sir.
Rent Restrictions Acts (Distress Levies)
asked the Attorney-General whether his attention has been drawn to the practice of landlords to levy distress on premises controlled by the Rent Restriction Acts without the leave of the county court as provided in Section 6 of the 1920 Act; and whether he proposes
to take any steps to put an end to this practice?
No, Sir. If there is such a practice the tenant has his remedy for illegal distress, if he chooses to avail himself of it. The Distress for Rent Committee set up by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health is considering this matter.
Safety In Coal Mines
asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the Royal Commission of Safety in Coal Mines stated in Table 21 of their report that no mines in South Yorkshire were inspected in 1937 by workmen's representatives under Section 16 of the Coal Mines Act, 1911; and what the information in his Department is on this subject?
Yes, Sir, the answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. According to my information, the actual figures for the year 1937 are 49 mines inspected and 185 inspections made in South Yorkshire, and 12 mines inspected and 31 inspections made in West Yorkshire.
Education (Land Purchase, Aberystwyth)
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether he has now made further inquiry with reference to the 4.206 acres of land acquired for school purposes in Panglaise Road, Aberystwyth; and whether he can now state what was the price paid for this site?
The price paid for this site was £3,244, exclusive of fees and costs.
Jamaica
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the large and increasing demand for cement in the West Indies and of the necessity for further employment, he has considered the urgency of cement manufacture in Jamaica, and, if not, will he now do so?
The Government of Jamaica is fully alive to the necessity for further employment, and would no doubt regard sympathetically any pro-
posals for the establishment of a cement industry which promised to be beneficial to the colony. It would seem, however, that this is a matter for private enterprise.
Kenya
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the reasons for the Government's refusal of the request of the Kenya Government for £150,000 loan for road improvement and 250,000 loan recommended by the Settlement Committee for schemes of closer white settlement?
These items have been submitted as part of a borrowing programme which is receiving consideration as a whole and upon which it is hoped to reach an early decision.
West Indies (University)
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has considered the desirability of encouraging the establishment of a university for the West Indies, and with what result?
Consideration will be given to this question in connection with any recommendations which may be made by the Royal Commission on the subject of education in the West Indies.
Fire Brigades Act
asked the Home Secretary how many local authorities in the county of Norfolk have submitted schemes under the Fire Brigades Act, 1938, to date; and when will the general scheme for the whole county come under review by the Fire Commission?
A number of fire authorities in the county of Norfolk have consulted my Department regarding points arising in connection with their obligations under the Fire Brigades Act, 1938, but that Act does not provide for the submission of schemes to the Home Office. As regards the second part of the question, I am not aware of any general scheme for the county and the Fire Service Commission have not yet had opportunity or occasion to undertake any general review of the local fire services provided by fire authorities.