:asked the Minister of Agriculture when he anticipates that the plan for providing cheap milk for expectant and nursing mothers, and children under five years of age, as provided under the Milk Amendment Act of 1938 and under the Milk Bill of 1939, will come into operation?

I am happy to say that a scheme for the provision of milk to local authorities in England and Wales at reduced prices for consumption by expectant and nursing mothers and children under five years of age was submitted by the Milk Marketing Board and approved by me on 26th July. The scheme comes into force as from to-day and I hope that it will be possible to lay it before Parliament within the next day or two. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Health will issue at the same time a circular letter and an explanatory memorandum to local authorities, with whom the initiative will then rest. I cannot at present say how soon it may be possible to bring the arrangements into operation in any given district.

:asked the Minister of Agriculture why the rate levied by the Medway Internal Drainage Board has been so suddenly and greatly increased; and whether he will consider taking steps to transfer this burden from those few who do not benefit more than other taxpayers to the Exchequer?

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the rates levied by the Lower Medway Internal Drainage Board, since the rate levied by the Upper Medway Internal Drainage Board for the current year is the same as that levied for the preceding year. The increase in the rates levied by the Lower Medway Board is due to the adoption by that board of a revised scheme of differential rating which, by increasing the measure of relief enjoyed by certain parts of the drainage district, has made it necessary for higher rates to be levied in other parts.With regard to the last part of the question, my right hon. Friend does not accept the proposition that drainage ratepayers do not derive a, special measure of benefit from the land drainage works for which they are rated, and it would not be equitable for the whole cost of land drainage works to be borne by the Exchequer.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has concluded the negotiations with the multiple retailers organisations on the provisions of the Poultry Bill; and can he make a statement on the result?

My right hon. Friend is drafting an Amendment to the Poultry Industry Bill to cover the case of multiple retailers, and hopes shortly to be in a position to consult the interests primarily concerned as to its terms.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of the valuable services performed by merchants on behalf of potato growers; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure the continuance of these services under the new arrangement contemplated by the amendments to the Potato Marketing Scheme?

Both my right hon. Friend and the Potato Marketing Board gladly recognise the value of the services performed by the merchants. My right hon. Friend does not, however, consider that the particular amendment of the Potato Marketing Scheme to which my hon. Friend evidently refers, represents any fundamental departure from the existing principles of the scheme, and he sees no reason, therefore, for taking any action such as my hon. Friend contemplates.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that an agreement was entered into some time ago by the Potato Marketing Board and the National Federation of Fruit and Potato Trades which provided that the latter should submit four names for nomination as special members to the board, but that this agreement has not recently been operated; and whether he can state what alternative arrangements have been made to ensure that an adequate number of persons on the board are expert in matters concerning distribution, as at the present time the whole of the members of the Potato Marketing Board are elected by producer-interests with the exception of the Government representative members?

I am informed that, since the inception of the scheme, a verbal understanding has existed between the Potato Marketing Board and the National Federation of Fruit and Potato Trades Limited, whereby the board has invited the federation each year to submit names for nomination at the annual general meeting as special members of the board. I understand that this practice has been consistently adhered to, but that the board was unable to recommend one of the persons suggested last year because that would have involved the displacement of a sitting member, who had represented distributive interests from the beginning. There are at the present time four special members of the board who are representative of distributors, and I see no reason to suppose that the present arrangements are inadequate.

asked the Minister of Agriculture when he received the report of the commissioner who held the inquiry into the proposed amendments to the Potato Marketing Scheme; and whether, in view of his decision not to modify these amendments in order to meet the objections of distributors and others to the proposed extension of the board's power to buy and sell surplus potatoes, he can state what steps he is taking to consult bodies representing distributors and consumers with regard to the proposals in question before submitting the amendments to Parliament?

The report of the commissioner who held the public inquiry into objections to the proposed amendments to the Potato Marketing Scheme was submitted to the Secretary of State for Scotland and myself on 30th November, 1938. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 27th July to my hon. Friend the Senior Member for Southampton (Mr. Craven-Ellis).

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has considered the representations from the National Federation of Fruit and Potato Trades against the proposed amendment of the Potato Marketing Scheme, with special reference to the proposed substitute Clause 74; and, if so, whether he is prepared to meet the objections raised?

As regards the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 27th July to my hon. Friend the senior Member for Southampton (Mr. Craven-Ellis). As regards the second part, the draft amendments of the Potato Marketing Scheme recently laid before Parliament had already been modified to meet certain of the objections raised at the Public Inquiry by the National Federation of Fruit and Potato Trades, Limited, to the amended paragraph 74.In the view of the Secretary of State for Scotland and myself, the much more drastic modifications suggested by the National Federation are not desirable.

asked the Minister of Agriculture what is the nature of the proposals which have recently been submitted to the Milk Marketing Board by the milk distributors which would have the effect of increasing the price of milk?

My right hon. Friend has no precise information about any proposals that may have been made to the Milk Marketing Board by milk distributors. I understand that consultations between the board and representatives of the distributors regarding the terms and conditions of the next milk contract, which will start on 1st October next, have not in fact yet taken place. The hon. Member will appreciate that under the Milk Industry Act, 1939, the contract may not be prescribed by the board until the Consumers' Committee for England have had an opportunity of making representations to the board with regard to any terms affecting prices.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will consider the claims of agents of factories and representatives for tractors in small rural towns to supply and stock tractors and equipment under the Government Bulk Purchase Scheme?

Purchases of tractors and implements for the National Reserve are being made direct from the manufacturers and not through agents. The tractors are being stored on dealer's premises all over the country in quantities proportionate to each dealer's ordinary trade; the implements are being stored by the suppliers.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is prepared to make a special grant for assisting the East Suffolk drainage area, in view of the difficulties of the responsible authority in dealing with the growing problems for which the board is responsible?

Grants to Catchment Boards under Section 55of the Land Drainage Act, 1930, are not assessed at a standard rate. Each application is considered separately, the principal factor taken into account in assessing the rate of grant being the resources of the Catchment Board concerned in relation to their responsibilities. Full consideration on this basis has been and will be given to applications from the East Suffolk Rivers Catchment Board.

asked the Minister of Agriculture how many appointments have been made to the staff of his Department from outside the Civil Service; and to what posts?

The number of new appointments since 1st January last is 499. Of these appointments 16 were to professional, scientific or technical posts, 395 to executive and clerical posts, 45 to typing posts and 43 to messengerial and cleaning posts. Of the 499 appointments, 320 were temporary.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the Milk Marketing Board has, during recent years, refused manufacturing licences to a number of English firms, and that existing manufacturers have had their position made very difficult by the large importation of condensed milk and other dairy products into this country; and whether, in these circumstances, he will take steps to ensure that the effect of the recently enforced Processed Milk Order is not invalidated by the scheme now under consideration for permitting interests that previously imported these milk products to build a new milk condensery in this country?

I am aware that the Milk Marketing Board has not acceded to certain applications for the approval of factory premises for the purpose of the allowance of rebates off the wholesale prices for milk. As to the remainder of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 13th July to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Chatham (Captain Plugge).

asked the Minister of Agriculture to what extent the recent purchase of 86 trawlers by the Admiralty will further restrict the supplies of fish to the ports of Hull and Grimsby?

As my right hon. Friend has no precise knowledge of the intentions of the Hull and Grimsby trawler owners in regard to their voluntary restriction scheme, he is unable to estimate the extent to which fish supplies will be restricted, but he is confident that the trawler owners will take all possible steps to ensure that the market is adequately supplied.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that there is concern in certain districts of the Forest of Dean at the increase in the price of fish; and what restrictions are at present in operation concerning the landing of fish at the ports?

I would refer the hon. Member to the replies given to my hon. Friends the Members for Warrington (Mr. Goldie), Doncaster (Mr. J. Morgan) and Cheltenham (Mr. Lipson) on 24th July, and my hon. Friends the Members for Rothwell (Mr. Lunn), Middleton and Prestwich (Sir N. Stewart Sandeman) and Wolverhampton, East (Mr. Mander) on 27th July.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the requests made by representatives of the saw-milling industry for the free listing of many classes of log timber, the duties upon which have caused considerable deterioration in trade, with a consequent increase in unemployment, in recent years; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy the complaints of those engaged in this important industry?

As my right hon. Friend informed the hon. Member on the 23rd May, the trade agreements with Canada and India contain an undertaking to maintain a preference of 10 per cent. On the kinds of timber in which they have an important interest. These undertakings preclude the Government from reducing the duty on a large variety of timbers, but it is open to the interests concerned to make application to the Import Duties Advisory Committee for the placing on the free list of logs of kinds which are not affected by these undertakings.

asked the President of the Board of Trade how much oil was imported into Great Britain from 1915 to 1918; how much of the oil consigned to the United Kingdom during these years was lost as a result of enemy action; and what steps he is proposing to take to prevent so large a percentage of loss in any future war?

The aggregate imports of petroleum into the United Kingdom during the four years 1915 to 1918, as published in the trade returns, amounted to 3,191 million gallons. Prior to 1st July, 1917, the published figures excluded petroleum which, at the time of importation, was known to be the property of His Majesty's Government or the Governments of the Allies, and the above figure is therefore to some extent defective. I regret that the information requested in the second part of the question is not available. The last part of the question should be addressed to my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the exports of war material from the United States of America to Japan during 1937 and 1938 exceeded 325,000,000 dollars; and what was the corresponding figure of war material exported from the British Isles during 1937 and 1938?

As it is not possible to distinguish the exports of materials for the manufacture of armaments from those for other purposes, I am unable to confirm the figure quoted in the question or to furnish corresponding particulars of exports from the United Kingdom to Japan.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will make a statement on the improvement of the coastguard service, with special reference to the position on the West Coast of Scotland and the Hebrides, and on the general position in relation to a possible war emergency?

Since the Coastguard Committee reported in 1931, the Board of Trade have continued the development of the coastguard on the lines recommended by that committee.On the West Coast of Scotland and in the Hebrides there are now 23 stations, five manned by coastguards and 18 manned by part-time members of the Coast Life Saving Corps. Life-saving apparatus has been supplied to all these stations, many of which are in isolated places in the outlying islands.The necessary arrangements have been made to adapt the coastguard organisation to war conditions, if required.

asked the Postmaster-General on what grounds he has withdrawn the subsidy formerly paid to the Loch Shiel Steamship Company; what was the amount of the subsidy; whether he is aware that the withdrawal of the subsidy means the closing down of this steamship service, to the serious hardship of the population presently served; and whether he will reconsider the said withdrawal and so safeguard this service in the public interest?

No subsidy is paid to the company by the Post Office, but they hold a contract for services rendered, namely, the conveyance of mails, for which they receive a payment of £400 per annum. The postal services in the district are being entirely reorganised and greatly improved, and this involves curtailment of the use of the steamer, and a corresponding reduction of the mail payment.As regards the maintenance of public facilities other than postal services, I understand that the hon. Member has another question on the Order Paper for Wednesday next.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will state his programme of improvement with regard to the provision of new public telephone kiosks in villages in the Western Isles?

The extension of telephone kiosk facilities in the Western Isles is dependent upon the opening of exchanges in the various islands; this is now in hand, following the recent completion of the new telephone link to the Mainland. Eight telephone kiosks have already been brought into service and another 26 are to be provided as soon as practicable.

asked the Postmaster-General what type of advertisements are by departmental rule or custom admitted in stamp books; and whether advertisements of wines, beer and spirits, religious bodies, political parties, literature, slogans and pool and betting agency advertisements, are excluded by rule?

The contract forbids acceptance of advertisements which relate to alcoholic liquors, lotteries, betting or gaming, or any illegal or immoral business or matter, or advertisements which are regarded as contrary to public policy. In interpreting this clause, advertisements of wines, beer and spirits, political parties, "pools" and betting agencies are definitely excluded; but slogans and advertisements of religious bodies and literature would be dealt with on the circumstances of each case.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will state the number of calls made on the speaking-clock service during the years ended 30th June, 1937, 1938 and 1939, respectively?

The number of calls made on the speaking-clock service during the years mentioned were 12 ¼ million, 17 ¼million and 24 ½ million, respectively.

asked the Postmaster-General what were the densities per 1,000 of the population of wireless-receiving licences as at the 31st May, 1938, and the 31st May, 1939, respectively, in Scotland, the United King- dom, England, London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen and Greenock, respectively?

The following is the information asked for:

	31st May, 1938.	31st May, 1939.
Scotland	148.08	155.07
United Kingdom	182.40	190.03
England	236.82	246.43
London	173.25	176.15
Glasgow	135.64	141.33
Edinburgh	182.12	184.60
Dundee	176.37	180.40
Aberdeen	163.65	172.23
Greenock	159.32	163.79

The postal areas, for which the numbers of wireless licences are available, do not coincide exactly with the administrative areas whose populations, estimated on the basis of the 1931 census, have been adopted in making the calculations.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is now in a position to make a further statement with regard to the extension of television services to the provincial centres?

asked the Postmaster-General whether he can give any indication when Sheffield is likely to be included in the television service area?

I am in communication with the Treasury concerning the question of extending the television service to the provinces, but I am not yet in a position to announce a decision.

asked the Lord Advocate whether, in view of the terms of the report of the Poor Persons Representation (Scotland) Committee, any steps have been taken to stop the appointment year after year or at frequent intervals of the same solicitors in Glasgow as agents for the poor?

The control of the appointment of solicitors for the poor is vested by Statute in the sheriff. Appointment is for one year and there is statutory authority for re-appointment. Complaints against solicitors for the poor in Glasgow, which have come to the notice of my right hon. Friend, have been reported by him to the Sheriff of Lanarkshire, by whom appropriate action has been taken. I understand that special attention is being given by the Sheriff of Lanarkshire to securing a high standard of efficiency and that no advantage would be secured by refraining from re-appointing for a second or subsequent term solicitors who have given satisfactory service.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the stimulated excesses of mob elements in Shanghai he will ascertain whether there are sufficient British troops present to help in maintaining order under any circumstances?

My Noble Friend's information does not indicate any recent outbreaks of mob violence having occurred at Shanghai. There is no reason to think that the forces at the disposal of the British commander are not adequate to take their share, in collaboration with the forces of other Powers, in the maintenance of order.

asked the Prime Minister whether the agreement with Tokyo in any way affects the terms of the Nine-Power Treaty, and, if so, in what way?

No, Sir.

asked the Prime Minister (1) whether the Japanese Government have yet been approached with regard to their failure to control opium dens in the Japanese-occupied area surrounding Shanghai, and the distribution or heroin and other drugs in the various parts of China in their occupation;(2) whether any reply has been received from the Japanese Government with regard to the representations made against the opening of opium dens in the former British territory of Wei-hai-Wei, which, during the period of British occupuation from 1898 to 1930, had been free from the opium evil?

The reply to both questions is in the negative, but His Majesty's Government have under immediate consideration possible representations to the Japanese Government on the drug situation in the occupied areas of China.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that a party of peasants were fired upon in Dhami State on 16th July and that several were killed; and whether he will ask for a full report from the British Agent?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 24th July to a similar question by the hon. Member for East Birkenhead (Mr. White). This reply was based upon a report which had already been received from the authorities in India. I understand that one of the injured has since died, bringing the number of deaths to two.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he can now make a statement as to affairs in Hyderabad?

I would refer the right hon. Gentleman to what I said in reply to previous questions on the 19th and 26th June and on the 10th July. Since then the number of persons detained in Hyderabad has risen to over 8,000. His Exalted Highness the Nizam's Government have published communiqués which are substantiated by the statements of independent witnesses denying harsh treatment of the persons detained in jails. In some cases it has been necessary, for example, at Aurangabad, to use force to preserve jail discipline, but only a few prisoners have received superficial injuries. No lathi charges have been made on protesting prisoners. Among those arrested nine deaths have occurred. This is not a high average having regard to the time of the year. Of those who died, one had high fever on arrival, two were over 65, and one was a lunatic.Conditions at the camp jail at Aurangabad were not at first satisfactory, owing to flooding from heavy rain, but the Inspector-General of Police, a retired British officer formerly Inspector-General in the United Provinces, saw that these were promptly remedied. The Crown Representative has no ground for doubting the accuracy of the communiqués issued by the Nizam's Government, and remains satisfied that the developments call for no special action on the part of the Paramount Power.The Nizam has recently promulgated an announcement of constitutional changes providing for the creation of a unicameral legislature, of which the members are to be elected to represent various economic interests in the State. It is proposed that half the members shall be Moslems and half Hindus. The Reforms also provide for the setting up of a Religious Affairs Committee, on which Hindus and Moslems will be equally represented, and to which the Nizam's Government will refer all important complaints regarding religious disabilities.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he can state the number of Indian cavalry regiments it is proposed to mechanise; and the number which will retain their horses?

Two Indian cavalry regiments are now in process of mechanisation. I am not yet in a position to state what number will ultimately be mechanised.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is now in a position to make a further statement relating to a conference to be held in connection with the colour bar legislation in South Africa?

Negotiations are still in progress between the Government of India and the Government of the Union.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the difficulty of cotton spinners and manufacturers in meeting the demands of the War Office contracts department for the supply of fabric and uniforms has now been overcome?

I am obtaining a report on this question, and will communicate with the hon. Member as soon as possible.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the large purchases of cotton goods now being made by Government departments, consideration will be paid to the high rate of unemployment in North-east Cheshire and to the numbers of unemployed cotton operatives, so that more orders can be placed in this district?

It is the policy of the War Office to give sympathetic consideration to offers received from firms with works in distressed areas, and, other things being equal, to place orders, if possible, with firms so situated.The Army has large requirements of the following cotton materials:Denim, Drab, No. 3,Drill, No. 2, Drab,Duck, Cotton, No. 3, Black,Calico, No. 6, Grey,Cotton Sheeting (for groundsheets), and, if any firms in North-east Cheshire wish to be considered for orders for any of these materials, they should get into touch with the War Office Contracts Department, Arkwright House, The Parsonage, Manchester.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will inquire into the circumstances attending the official reply to Mrs. A. Matthews, regarding her son, a militiaman, No. 10017271, which was illegible; and whether he will give instructions that, when letters are sent to parents, the name of the militiaman shall be firstly stated, and the number appertaining stated subsequently?

I have been unable to trace this case from the particulars given in the question. Perhaps the hon. Member will be good enough to send me the letter to which he refers, in order that the matter may be looked into.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now able to give fuller information as to the eduational facilities which will be available for militiamen after the close of the summer; and whether he has obtained the views of responsible organisations engaged in the work of adult education as to the educational facilities which are to be provided?

The War Office has maintained close touch with the Board of Education in this matter, and the Board have had very satisfactory discussions with the bodies concerned with adult education. As a result, steps are being taken to establish regional organisations which will arrange, with the assistance of selected inspectors of the Board, for the provision of lectures and other facilities of an educational character. It is hoped that these arrangements will be in operation after the end of the summer.In addition, inquiry is being made as to opportunities for attending evening classes and as to library facilities which may exist in the vicinity of depots and training camps, and these will be brought to the notice of militiamen.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether an officer of substantive rank on the active list or reserve of the Regular or Territorial Army who holds either substantive, acting, temporary, honorary or local rank of a higher character in a branch of the military service other than that in which he holds a lower substantive rank, should be addressed and known by the higher rank; and, if this is the case, will he cause an announcement to this effect to be published in Army Orders?

The answer to the first part of the question is, "Yes, Sir." This is the normal practice, and I know of no reason for an announcement in Army Orders.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Jews in Palestine are at the present time in prison under the Prevention of Crimes Ordinance or under the emergency regulations under the following heads: Communists, Revisionists, and others, respectively, distinguishing men and women; and whether there are any others held in gaol without trial, for whom in this country writs of habeas corpus would be available?

There are no Jews detained under the Prevention of Crime Ordinance. Of the 148 Jews detained; under Emergency Regulation 15B, 14 men and eight women are Communists, and 119 men and three women Revisionists. The four others are men.The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will state the number of Arabs and Jews, respectively, in Palestine in the year 1918, and the latest available date?

No figures of population for the year 1918 are available, but it is estimated that in 1919 there were approximately 635,000 Arabs and 58,000 Jews in Palestine. The estimated figures at the end of March, 1939, were 1,113,000 Arabs and 422,000 Jews.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress has been made with the negotiations with the Tel Aviv Marine Trust with regard to the definition of its status and rights since the 18th May, 1938?

I have now under consideration a report which I have recently received from the High Commissioner regarding the request made by the Marine Trust, Limited, for the modification of the terms on which the construction of the port at Tel Aviv as a private concern was originally sanctioned.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what plans have the Governments of East Africa to ensure the conservation of soil fertility and to prevent the spread of arid conditions in the East African territories?

The Departments of Agriculture of all the territories in East Africa have made the conservation of soil fertility the basis of their work. Surveys have been made of areas where deterioration in soil conditions and degeneration in vegetation cover have occurred, and various steps—such as terracing, afforestation and destocking —have been taken to improve conditions and to check further damage. As regards Kenya in particular, I have recently asked the Governor for comprehensive proposals for dealing further with the whole problem of soil conservation in all its aspects."

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can now make any statement with regard to the fines demanded by Nazi representatives from German Jews in East Africa?

From the inquiries which I have made it appears that Kenya is the only East African Dependency in which such a demand has been received, and that only one case is known. In March last a demand notice was received by a German Jewish resident of Nairobi from the Berlin Revenue Office; it is understood that the recipient, who owns some property in Germany, has so far ignored the demand.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what arrangements are made for the administration of justice in the Cocos Islands; and what officers are responsible for law and order there?

Justice is administered locally in the Cocos Islands by Headmen and Elders, who decide cases by a majority vote; and a person accused may appeal, if dissatisfied, to Mr. Clunies Ross, who holds from His Majesty's Government the grant of the land in all the islands in the group. A Government officer from Christmas Island is sent to the islands periodically, and reports to the Governor of the Straits Settlements.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is satisfied that the system of training for the higher posts in his Department answers all requirements, in view of the fact that to fill his Permanent Under-Secretaryship he has been compelled to borrow an official from the local government service?

Yes, Sir. I am fully satisfied. In regard to the fact to which attention is drawn I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given by the Prime Minister on the 25th July to a question put by the hon. Member for St. Rollox (Mr. Leonard). I would add that there is no rule or practice which requires that the Permanent Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies should be chosen from the staff of the Colonial Office. Of the last five holders of the appointment two have been so chosen and three have not. Of the three not so chosen, only one was a member of the Home Civil Service.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will state the approximate number of basements of houses in West Ham due to be inspected for strengthening as a precaution against air raids; whether he has ascertained what technical staff is available to carry through these inspections; when the work is likely to begin; and what proportion of the cost, if any, is to be borne by the local authority?

I understand that there are, approximately, between 15,000 and 18,000 basements in West Ham which should be surveyed, though it is probable that on a preliminary survey a proportion of these would be regarded as unsuitable for use as air-raid shelters. From the information in my possession it appears that the staff employed by the authority on this work is inadequate. The cost of the survey, including the salaries of additional staff or the fees to outside consultants who could assist in carrying out the survey, would rank for Government grant on the terms of the Air-Raid Precautions Act, 1937. I am instructing one of my technical officers to discuss with the local authority measures for accelerating this work, which is now proceeding very slowly.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he has yet decided upon the type and make of respirator applicable and serviceable to men who may in time of emergency be engaged in repair of sewers?

In so far as these men come within the numbers of repair personnel for whom equipment is being issued to local authorities, they will be provided with general service respirators. This decision was communicated to local authorities last January.

asked the Lord Privy Seal why the price charged for the steel helmets offered to industry by the Air- Raid Precautions Department is 8s. 6d. when some firms are offering the same helmets at a lower price?

I am glad to have this opportunity of explaining the position. These helmets are made of manganese steel to the same pattern and under the same conditions of inspection as those used by the Fighting Services. The contracts for all Government purposes are placed by the War Office. When the Civil Defence Act was before the House it was foreseen that industrial and commercial establishments might have difficulty in obtaining steel helmets to meet their prospective statutory obligations and, with the full agreement of the Joint Committee of Employers' Organisations, who have been assisting me on the questions arising under the Act, I arranged with the War Office that a substantial amount of the necessary materials and productive capacity should be set aside for these requirements.A contract was placed for the delivery of 100,000 helmets a week from the beginning of this month. Through the deliveries already taking place under this contract it will be possible to fulfil the whole of the requirements of industry and commerce by September. These helmets are being sold at 8s. 6d. This price includes packing, delivery, inspection, the administrative overheads, and an additional payment to the contractor for the organisation of three-shift working to produce the helmets rapidly. While this price may be higher for these reasons than that at which helmets of a similar pattern are being offered in the open market, I understand that the view of the War Office is that it will be impossible for any substantial supplies of helmets to be obtained in the open market without detriment to the supplies to the Fighting Services, and that those which are obtainable from the Home Office are all that, in view of the limited amount of materials and productive capacity available, can properly be devoted to civil needs during the next few months.These arrangements made for industry, therefore, represent the best rate of output compatible with the requirements of rearmament and the price merely reflects the cost of securing the desired deliveries within the shortest possible time. In these circumstances I naturally look to industrial employers to co-operate by making use of the scheme specially devised to meet their needs.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether any orders for steel shelters have been given to firms in the Tees-side area, including Port Clarence, where large plant is available for such work?

Orders for an appreciable quantity of steel sheets and bars for use in shelter construction have been allotted to firms in the Teesside area, but I understand that none of these orders are being carried out by works at Port Clarence.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in the selection of areas for the receiving and billeting of children from evacuated areas in the event of an emergency, regard is being had to the places which suffered from air raids during the Great War; and whether he is aware that the South-West Lancashire area was frequently visited by enemy aircraft during that period, which resulted in extensive damage being done?

The main consideration in selecting a receiving area is whether the area will provide a better chance of safety for the children than the large thickly populated towns in which they live at present. I do not think the fact that a particular district was visited by enemy aircraft during the war would be a sufficient reason for failing to utilise the opportunities it affords for a more effective dispersal of the children to be evacuated. As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, most of the industrial districts in the area have been placed in the neutral category.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the extremely low wages paid by the Great Universal Stores, Limited, of Manchester, and the comments respecting same made by the stipendiary in a recent prosecution case; is he further aware of the action of the firm in dismissing employés who joined their appropriate union in order to improve conditions; and what action he intends taking to deal with the situation?

I have received representations on this matter from the trade union concerned and I am in communication with the employers on the various points raised.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will state the principles on which the military trainees who have been medically examined are being called up at quarterly periods; and whether early selection is due to any special reason?

I would refer the hon. Member to the replies which I have given to the hon. Member for South Croydon (Sir H. G. Williams) on 16th May, to the hon. Members for Sedgefield (Mr. Leslie) and Don Valley (Mr. T. Williams) on 25th May, and to the hon. Member for Seaham (Mr. Shinwell) on 6th June, copies of which I am sending him.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the large amount of overtime that is being worked on Government hutting contracts; and whether it is proposed to take any action in the matter?

I have no comprehensive information as to the amount of such overtime but I have no doubt that in certain cases it is considerable. It is the desire of the Government that effect should be given to the agreement existing in the building industry for the regulation of normal working hours and overtime. The ill effects of excessive overtime as regards both the health and the efficiency of the workers are recognised. At the present time, some degree of overtime on hutting contracts is unavoidable but in all the circumstances it seems clear that the object of the agreement in the industry would be promoted by a specific limitation of maximum hours. The Government have decided, therefore, that steps should be taken to ensure that where it is necessary to exceed normal hours the total working hours should not be more than a maximum of 60 in the week; and that this limit should be exceeded only to meet sudden and unforeseen emergencies.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that trawler sharemen are not insurable under the Unemployment Insurance Acts, and that, in existing circumstances, these men are suffering severe hardship, and in some cases destitution, as a result of this omission; and will he put these facts before the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee with a view to a remedy for these hardships being found?

Share fishermen in trawlers are insurable against unemployment only if they are employed under a contract of service and are not wholly remunerated by a share in the profits or the gross earnings of the working of the vessel. The Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee have already examined the position at my request, and I am sending the hon. Member a copy of their report.

asked the Home Secretary how many applications have been made for permission to work shift systems by cotton textile employers in Lancashire; how many have been granted; and in how many cases has permission been refused?

Since the beginning of 1937, when the Employment of Women and Young Persons Act, 1936, came into force, 38 applications for authorisations to work shift systems under the Act have been submitted to the Home Office in respect of cotton textile factories in Lancashire. An authorisation was granted in each of those cases; 21 of them were temporary and 10 of those 21 have now lapsed. I should explain that as a rule applications for authorisations of this kind are not submitted to the Home Office at all unless the secret ballot has shown that the majority of the workpeople concerned consent to the granting of the application.

asked the Home Secretary whether he can now make any further statement about the conference at Manchester to consider the problem of dust in cardrooms in the cotton industry?

My right hon. Friend understands that some difficulty arose in fixing a date in July convenient to representatives of the workpeople, but the Chief Inspector still contemplates an early conference with them, followed by a conference with the employers, and in the meantime the conditions at certain mills are being investigated.

asked the Home Secretary whether deportation orders were made in the cases of the five Jewish stowaways who landed in this country off the Dutch ship "Velocitas," on 24th July; whether this order has yet been, or is about to be, enforced; and whether these persons have been, or will be, deported to their country of origin or to Palestine?

The five aliens who arrived at London in the "Velocitas" from Antwerp on 24th July have been charged with landing without permission in the United Kingdom and have been remanded in custody until 1st August. As the case is sub judice I am unable to make any further statement at present.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the pro-Nazi anti-British propaganda carried on by such organisations as the British Union, the Nordic League, the Militant Christian Patriots, and the Imperial Fascist League, and others; and if he will have inquiries made into their activities?

My right hon. Friend is aware of the activities of the organisations mentioned and they are kept under close observation.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the case of a man who was convicted at the South-West London Police Court on Thursday last for stealing from a woman a handbag; whether he has seen the evidence that the man had for the past eight years worked for a news-reporting agency, Fleet Street, 80 hours per week for £2 per week, and the comments of the magistrate thereon; and, in view of these circumstances and of the man's excellent character, will he remit this man's sentence?

My right hon. Friend has caused inquiries to be made and is informed that the magistrate decided to bind this man over in his own recognisances for a period of 12 months and placed him under the supervision of a probation officer, who will endeavour to find more remunerative employment for him. No question arises in this case of remitting a sentence as the man has not been sentenced.

asked the Home Secretary to which of the newsreel companies it is customary at the present time for the Commissioner of Police to grant cards to enable their reperesentatives to obtain privileged posts for the filming of important State functions; whether any companies have been refused such facilities during the past three years and, if so, for what reasons?

So far as the Commissioner of Police is responsible for the grant of facilities to film State functions, applications are dealt with in rotation and granted so far as the limitations of the space available permit. Such limitations at a particular place may have led to the facilities asked for being unavailable, but there is no record of the refusal of facilities for any other reason.

asked the Minister of Pensions what were the actual amounts paid in pensions and allowances during the financial years of 1934, 1935, 1936, and 1937?

The amounts paid in pensions and allowances to all classes of pensioner during the financial years 1934, 1935, 1936 and 1937 were £41,451,480, £40,669,670, £39,613,470 and £38,428,547, respectively?

asked the Minister of Pensions what number of pensioners have died during 1938; how do the figures compare with those of the civil population; and how many of the widows are in receipt of a pension under the Royal Warrant?

If, as I presume, the hon. Member has disability pen- sioners in mind, the reply to the first part of his question is the number of deaths from all causes of this class of pensioner of non-commissioned rank, in the financial year ended 31st March last was 7,480. This represents a death rate of 18.9 per 1,000 pensioners. The death rate for the corresponding age group in England and Wales was approximately 12.9 per 1,000. The records of my Department do not enable me to say how many widows of the men who died during the period concerned are now in receipt of pension.

asked the Minister of Pensions how many men are in receipt of disability pensions for injuries received during the Great War; and the number that are pensioned at 100 per cent., 80 per cent., 60 per cent., 50 per cent., 40 per cent., and 20 per cent., respectively?

The number of officers and men in receipt of pension for disablement caused by wounds and injuries, as distinct from diseases, on the 31st March, 1939, was approximately 227,900.The records of my Department do not enable me to give separate figures in respect of wound and injury cases for the various rates, but the total numbers of all classes of disability cases pensioned at the rates specified were as follow:

Per cent.
100	26,703
80	14,010
60	33,088
50	50,911
40	50,253
20	112,600

asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the number of persons in receipt of public assistance in March, 1931, and in March, 1939, giving separate figures for Lancashire?

On Saturday, 28th March, 1931, the number for England and Wales, excluding rate-aided patients in mental hospitals, persons in receipt of domiciliary medical relief only, and casuals, was 1,029,114. The corresponding number on Saturday, 25th March, 1939, was 1,073,975. The figures for the administrative county of Lancaster, together with the 17 associated county boroughs, were 141,009 and 171,326 respectively.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that many persons who are in receipt of statutory sick and disablement benefit under the National Health Insurance Acts are being compelled to seek help from the public assistance committees because of long-continued illness; and will he take steps to secure to these persons some increase in the amount of benefit they receive?

I am aware that it is sometimes necessary for persons drawing National Health insurance benefits to seek further help from the public assistance authorities. As regards the second part of the question, the benefits provided under the National Health insurance scheme are related actuarially to the contributions payable by employers, insured persons and the Exchequer. Any increase in the statutory benefits would necessitate an increase in the rates of contributions, and would not be possible without legislation.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will issue a notification that where an urban district council had, prior to the issue of his circular, decided and notified its staff that it would make up in cash to men conscripted under the Military Training Act, 1939, the difference between Militia pay and the pay which they would have received had they remained in the full-time service of the authority, such authority may adhere to its decision and follow the example of many other employers in the country?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Leyton, West (Mr. Sorensen) on the 13th July.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that many orphans in attendance at secondary schools and similar institutions are forced by circumstances to terminate their courses at the 31st July following their 16th birthday because the payment of the orphans' pension ceases at that date; and will he consider introducing at an early date an amending Clause to the Pensions Act extending the duration of the orphans' pension to meet cases where the children would remain under instruction after the 31st July following their 16th birthday?

Representations have already been made to me regarding this matter. Under the original Contributory Pensions Act of 1925 the date up to which payment of an allowance or orphan's pension was continued in the case of a child who remained at school after reaching the age of 14 was the 16th birthday. This provision was amended by the Act of 1929, which extended payment to the 31st July next following the 16th birthday, that being the normal date of the end of the school year in the case of secondary schools. This amendment removed any hardship in the normal case, but the hon. Member's suggestion that the duration of the allowance or orphan's pension should be further extended to meet cases where the child remains at school after the 31st July next following his 16th birthday has been noted for consideration when any amending legislation is contemplated.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that tar-paved roads, artificial manures, amp;c., cause pollution in the ponds and shallow wells in use by the rural population in many districts; and what steps he proposes to take to bring rural effluent of this nature under proper control until such time as piped supplies of water are available everywhere?

I have received no complaint of pollution of this kind. If the hon. Member has any particular cases in mind, I should be happy to look into them.

asked the Minister of Health what was the total and percentage diminution in the number of births registered in 126 great towns and cities, for which weekly figures are obtained, during the first 30 weeks of 1939 as compared with the corresponding period of 1938, and for the nine weeks ended 2nd July, 1938, compared with those ended 1st July, 1939?

The following are the figures in question. It will be seen that in each case they represent an increase and not a diminution:

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that, in arriving at the value of tenement property in Scotland, district valuers take account of owner's rates, and, as these differ in each district, the values are not uniform; and will he give instructions that values be fixed on the assumption that the owners are in actual receipt of the permitted increases of 40 per cent. under the Rent Restriction Acts, and that the deduction for ground burdens be based on the market value or approximate to the price at which local authorities have purchased ground burdens after purchase of dwelling-houses?

I have been asked to reply. The valuation of the property in question is directed to the ascertainment of its market value and in arriving at the market value account has to be taken of the owner's rates which are an outgoing, and of ground burdens such as feu duty, ground annual, etc., which are charged on the property. These outgoings and burdens are not uniform and it is inevitable, therefore, that the values are not uniform. As regards property under the Rent Restriction Acts regard is had to the possibility of increasing any rents that may be below the 40 per cent. level, but it is not considered that it would be proper to assume generally that rents are at that level regardless of what the actual circumstances may be.

asked the Secretary of State for Air why the air-mail from Sierra Leone has been suspended; and whether in view of the consequent dislocation of business, he can give an assurance that it will be restarted at an early date?

The suspension of the service referred to was due to a defect in the aircraft employed, but the operating company have decided that this suspension must be continued indefinitely. The reason for this decision is that the company have sustained considerable financial loss, the revenue from mails and passengers being out of proportion to the operating cost. It is intended that this route shall be reopened, not as a local service but as part of the system of projected England to West Africa services. It is not possible to forecast the date of reopening as this is dependent upon the provision of the necessary African bases and ground organisation between England and West Africa, and the provision of suitable equipment.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will publish details of the cases of excessive profits in connection with Air Ministry contracts, referred to in the report of the Select Committee on Estimates?

The reference quoted by the hon. Member does not relate to individual contracts but to the suggested effect of large increase in turnover on aggregate profits, as disclosed in the annual accounts of companies engaged on aircraft and allied production.The House has already been informed that negotiations have been concluded for a revision of the agreement which regulates the fixing of prices under contracts placed by the Air Ministry with the principal aircraft and aero-engine firms.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will state the names of the Members of the Government who at present hold commissions in the Royal Air Force or Auxiliary Reserve Forces?

Apart from three members of the Government who hold honorary commissions as Air Commodores, no Members of the Government hold commissions in the Royal Air Force or the Auxiliary or Reserve Forces.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will state names of the Members of the Government who at present hold commissions in the Navy or Auxiliary Naval Reserve Forces?

The only Member of the Government who holds a naval commission is Admiral of the Fleet Lord Chatfield, Minister for Co-ordination of Defence.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury how many executive and clerical officers in the Civil Service have been classified fit for early and special promotion?

I regret that the information is not available.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he can now give an assurance that satisfactory arrangements have been made to secure that Parliament and the principal Government Departments which would be concerned with the administration of a war, such as the Admiralty, War Office, Air Ministry, Foreign Office, Board of Trade, Ministry of Information, and others, could function efficiently?

My hon. Friend may rest assured that the needs of Parliament and Government in war time have not been overlooked.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether his attention has been called to the representations made to Members of Parliament by the Parliamentary Press Gallery as to the increasing difficulty of reporting Parliamentary statements often of world-wide importance; and what steps he proposes to take to enable the Press to do its work effectively?

I have seen the circular letter addressed to hon. Members by the Press Gallery. The question of amplification was recently considered by a meeting representative of all parties, under the chairmanship of Mr. Speaker, and it was regretfully but unanimously decided that no steps could be taken. I can, therefore, add nothing to the replies made by or on behalf of my predecessor to questions on this subject on the 1st and 2nd May last.

asked the First Commissioner of Works what system is adopted by his Department in granting facilities for the taking of newsreel films from buildings under his control; and whether, in cases were accommodation is limited, he will consider the desirability of giving priority to the representatives of those companies which are prepared to circulate their films generally and without restriction?

The granting of permission to make cinematograph films from the windows of Government buildings is normally a matter for the occupying Department. Permission to photograph from the roofs of Government buildings is ordinarily given by my Department to all bona fide cinematograph companies who apply but, if accommodation is restricted, positions are allocated in accordance with a rota administered by the newsreel companies themselves. I understand that all the newsreel companies are then entitled to prints of the films taken. In these circumstances, the need for adopting the suggestion contained in the last part of my hon. Friend's question would not appear to arise.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether the rest-rooms and other quarters provided for the use of the staff, both of men and women, under the Kitchen Committee of the House of Commons have been regularly inspected by his Department; and whether he will call for a special report on these rooms so as to satisfy himself of the urgent need for improvement for the sake of the health and well-being of the staff?

The inspection of the accommodation allocated to the Kitchen Committee is normally carried out by my Department upon the request of that Committee. I am well aware that improvements are desirable and, as I said in reply to a question by the hon. Member for Fulham, West (Dr. Summerskill) on the 26th July, I propose, at the request of the Chairman of the Kitchen Committee, to make certain improvements during the coming Recess.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether, in the event of an enemy attack, provision has been made to ensure protection of the nation's treasures in the British Museum, the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, and so forth; and have the various staffs already been fully trained as to their duty, upon instant warning, to remove these treasures to a place of security?

Yes, Sir. Plans have been worked out, in collaboration with the directors of all the principal National museums and galleries, for the safeguarding of the nation's art treasures in the event of emergency. With regard to the second part of the question, training is a matter for the museum authorities, but I understand that the staffs concerned have in fact been fully trained in the duties they would be required to perform.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether he has considered the minute of a meeting of the National Fitness Committee of the West Riding of Yorkshire, held at Leeds on 17th July, at which a Report was dealt with containing a complaint that the attendance at keep-fit classes was unsatisfactory on account of the fact that the members of the classes became hungrier than usual as a result of the exercise, and that the district committee could not afford the extra food; and what administrative action he proposes to take?

I have seen the minute to which the hon. Member refers, from which it appears that a further report is to be presented. I will look into the matter when this report is forthcoming.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he can give an assurance that there is sufficient wheat stored in this country for at least six months without further supplies from overseas?

The wheat stored in this country, together with the harvest which is just beginning, is more than sufficient to maintain the bread supply for six months without imports.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he will state the plans of His Majesty's Government for setting up factories for the canning of herring, kippers and lobsters in the safe area of the Western Isles and North-West Coast, as a provision of nourishing food against a possible war-time food shortage?

The existing capacity in the country for the canning of fish is considered adequate for requirements in time of war. Accordingly no scheme for extending the capacity is in contemplation.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the last available return showing the relative numbers of commercial motor vehicles of the A, B and C licence classes is dated 30th June, 1938; whether his Department has any knowledge of the numbers of such vehicles at a date later than 13 months ago; and, if so, whether he will inform the House of such numbers?

A return is compiled annually showing the number of vehicles authorised on A, B and C carriers licences as at the 30th June. The return for 1939 is now being prepared and, it is hoped, will be available about the end of September.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will give, in amplification of the quarterly statistical summary of output, costs of production, proceeds and profits of the coal mining industry for the quarter ended 31st March, 1939, information under the headings included in that summary in respect of each of the districts of Lancashire and Cheshire, North Staffordshire, Cumberland, North Wales, South Staffordshire, Forest of Dean, Somerset and Kent?

As the answer involves a lengthy statistical statement, I will forward the information to my hon. Friend, and put copies in the Library.

asked the Attorney-General whether he has given consideration to the recommendations of the Law Revision Committee contained in Command Paper 6009 with regard to revision of the law relating to frustration of contracts; whether he has approved the recommendations; and whether, in view of the importance of this matter in times of emergency, he will state what action he proposes to take?

Yes, Sir. The Government have adopted the report in principle. The preparation of other urgent legislative business has hitherto prevented the preparation of a Bill to give effect to the committee's recommendations, but a Bill for this purpose will be prepared and considered as soon as possible.