asked the Secretary for Mines whether he can make a statement on the policy of his Department with regard to the need for a wider utilisation of home-produced fuel and the planning of fuel utilisation; what have been the results of research at the fuel research station; what are the prospects of a development of low-temperature carbonisation of coal in conjunction with producer-gas; and, as producer-gas is the most efficient and economical way of operating transport on indigenous fuel, what steps are being taken to develop the production of producer-gas; and has he considered the report of the Glasgow transport engineers on the Highland Transport producer-gas vehicle?

I would refer the hon. Member, as regards the first, fourth and fifth parts of the question, to the replies which I gave him on 2nd May and 4th July, and, as regards the second part, to the annual reports of the Fuel Research Board. As to the third part, I am not in a position to make a statement.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will state the total amount paid in wages to miners in

England and Wales.
County.				1924.		1938.
				Output of Saleable Coal.	Average Annual Cash Earnings per Wage-earner (exclusive of the value of allowances in kind).	Output of Saleable Coal.	Average Annual Cash Earnings per Wage-earner (exclusive of the value of allowances in kind).
ENGLAND.				Tons.	£	Tons.	£
Northumberland			…	13,660,448	125	13,310,518	130
Durham		…	…	36,674,580	129	31,413,231	127
Cumberland		…	…	2,188,795	131	1,568,175	151
Westmorland		…	…	1,685		—
Somerset		…	…	1,116,789	123	738,197	133
Kent	…	…	…	330,197	150	1,771,104	158
Gloucester		…	…	1,605,941	119	1,418,116	137
Yorkshire		…	…	46,564,271	147	42,372,045	151
Nottinghamshire			…	14,190,313		15,467,520
Warwickshire		…	…	5,144,331		5,584,228
Derbyshire		…	…	16,842,415		13,851,374
Leicestershire		…	…	3,151,591		2,861,422
Staffordshire: Cannock Chase.				6,060,980		5,079,494
South Staffordshire			…	1,213,225	116	1,103,717	145
Worcestershire			…	492,033		287,260
Shropshire		…	…	819,515		656,684
North Staffordshire			…	6,492,759	125	6,940,830	144
Lancashire		…	…	19,540,126		14,262,641
Cheshire		…	…	249,944		22,139
WALES.
Denbighshire		…	…	2,935,333	122	2,486,213	151
Flintshire		…	…	510,340		226,086
Breconshire		…	…	638,074	139	465,181	144*
Carmarthenshire			…	2,671,142		1,834,966
Glamorganshire			…	33,375,781		22,347,327
Pembrokeshire		…	…	51,640		70,879
Monmouthshire			…	14,348,498		10,574,395
Total for England and Wales.				230,870,746	137	196,713,742	143
*Relates to year ended 31st January, 1939.

asked the Secretary for Mines why four collieries remain closed in the North Staffordshire area; why the Kidsgrove colliery remains closed, seeing that it was included in the last survey and was shown to be the centre of a valuable seam; and, in view of the contents of the coal in this area and of the thickness of the seams maintained over a large area, what action is it intended to take in order to start a more scientific utilisation of the coal?

Following is the available information:

A number of pits have been closed in the North Staffordshire area during the last 18 months, and if the hon. Member will let me know the names of the four collieries he has in mind I will have inquiries made. The Kidsgrove colliery was abandoned in 1931 because it was unprofitable, and has not been worked since. Pumping was continued for two years, but the water has since been allowed to rise and the shafts are now full of water. As regards the last part of the question I would point out that the percentage of the national output of coal supplied by the North Staffordshire coal-field has been increasing in recent years.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he can state the approximate net coal resources now available in the North Staffordshire area based upon the findings of the Royal Commission of 1905; in what part of the area is it proposed to sink new shafts or tap new seams; is he aware that the coal contains a high percentage of sulphur and other contents; that there are bituminous and semi-bituminous seams; that there are thick seams over a considerable area yet to be worked; that the coal is rich in contents suitable for the production of by-products; and is it intended to erect a plant or plants for the scientific exploitation of the coal and the establishment of subsidiary and ancillary industries?

The approximate net coal resources now available in the North Staffordshire area based upon the findings of the Royal Commission on Coal Supplies and Resources issued in 1905 would appear to be in the region of 4,000 million tons. I have no information concerning a proposal to sink new shafts. I am aware that the area contains bituminous and semi-bituminous seams, but coals of the anthracite class are absent. One or two of the coals contain such a percentage of sulphur as to make them unsuitable for iron-making or household use. On this account they are not much worked.As regard the last part of the question these are matters for commercial initiative.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has received a report of the inspection under Section 16 of the Coal Mines Act, 1911, which was carried out in the Martin's district of Gresford colliery on the 16th of May this year, and whether, in view of the reported presence of inflammable gas there and the firing of shots in the vicinity, any action has been taken to avoid the risk of ignition by improving the ventilation or by a stricter supervision of shot-firing in that district of the mine?

I have received a copy of the report made by the workmen's representatives. It records that they detected inflammable gas at the edge of the waste while shot-firing was in progress on the adjoining face, although there is no definite evidence that any shot was illegally fired, and the gas found was immediately cleared by erecting brattice. Appropriate action was taken.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has considered a communication from the secretary of the Lancashire Miners' Federation stating the reasons why it is desired that an inquiry should be held under Section 83 of the Coal Mines Act, 1911, into the cause of the accident at Astley Green collieries on 6th June, which resulted in the loss of five lives; and, in view of this appeal and the nature of the evidence at the inquest, will he consider granting an inquiry under Section 83?

I am giving careful consideration to this question, but I am not yet in a position' to make a statement.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will consider issuing regulations relating to the safety of young workers in or about the mines similar to the Order issued under the Factory Act, 1937, Form 281, under the name of Special Provisions regarding the Safety of Young Workers?

Form 281, published by the Factory Department of the Home Office, is not an Order making regulations but a memorandum giving guidance in regard to certain provisions of the Factories Act, 1937. Much has already been done in the Mining Industry to make boys better acquainted with precautions against accidents, and I would mention particularly, by way of example, the safety classes for boys. The Royal Commission has made recommendations for strengthening the existing law in this respect and these recommendations are being considered in connection with forthcoming legislation to be based on the Commission's Report.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is considering issuing an immediate order relating to young persons, either underground or on the surface, who have not attained the age of 16, on the same lines as the draft statutory rules and order under the Factory Act, 1937, which provides that the periods of employment for young persons under 16 years of age need not be the same as for other young persons and women employed in the factory?

The Factories Act, 1937, does not apply to mines, and there are no provisions in the present Coal Mines Act corresponding to those on which the draft order for factories is based. The question of proposing a similar order for mines does not, therefore, arise.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is now in a position to make a statement to the House regarding the Anglo-Polish negotiations for an agreement in connection with the export coal trade?

I regret that I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

asked the Secretary for Mines to what extent the coal owners have complied with the order regarding the use of automatic gas detectors; how many companies have failed to install any up to date; and what action he proposes to take to deal with those in default on the appropriate date?

The regulation requiring the provision of automatic gas detectors does not come into force until 1st January, 1940. Nevertheless, in accordance with their undertaking given at the recent Arbitration, the Mining Association and the National Association of Colliery Managers have circularised their members urging them to comply with the regulation as soon as the necessary instruments can be obtained from the manufacturers.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that of the total quantity of coal imported into France, the amount from this country is far less than France would need in the event of an emergency arising; and whether any arrangements have been made to supply more coal to France should the need arise?

Yes, Sir. The answer to both parts of the question is in the affirmative.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will state the output per shift per person employed in the coal-mines of Germany and Poland, respectively?

Following is the information:

Average Output per Manshift worked Underground at Coal Mines in Poland and in certain Districts in Germany during March, 1939.
	Metric tons.
Poland*.	2.626
Germany:
Ruhr †	1.992
Aachen	1.383
Upper Silesia	2.487
Lower Silesia	1.284
Saxony	1.170
* Including the Karwin coalfield,
†The output of coal in the Ruhr coalfield represented about 70 per cent. of the total German production in March, 1939.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will state the number of persons employed in the coal industry in July, 1931, and at the last date for which figures are available?

On 25th July, 1931, the number of wage-earners on colliery books in Great Britain was 827,200 as compared with 768,700 on the corresponding date this year.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will state the numbers employed, on the surface and underground, respectively, in divisions of the coalfields, in the following age groups: 14 to 16, 16 to 18, 18 to 21. and 21 upwards, for the year 1936 to the most recent date; and the fatal and non-fatal accidents as requested in the first part of the question?

As the reply is in the form of a very lengthy statistical statement, I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to send him a copy and also to place copies in the Library.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will state the cost, other than wages, of the average annual output per wage-earner in the Notts coalfields for each of the years 1929 to 1938;

Following is the information:

Nottinghamshire.
Year and costs other than wages of the average annual output of saleable coal per wage-earner:
	£
1929	47
1930	46
1931	47
1932	49
1933	51
1934	52
1935	55
1936	59
1937	64
1938	67

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he can state the number of certified cases of silicosis amongst miners in 1938; the increase in such cases over previous years, and which districts show the most pronounced increase; and if he can state what immediate measures are being taken to secure the adoption of preventive measures, and the character of such measures, pending the introduction of a new Coal Mines Act?

Following is the information:

Coal Miners in Great Britain Certified under the Various Industries (Silicosis) [Schemes1931 and 1934.
Year.	Disablement cases.	Cases of death not previously certified as disabled.
1936	325	22
1937	285	17
1938	437	16

The 1938 figures of new cases show increases of 151 and 112 over the 1937 and 1936 figures respectively. The largest increases occurred in the counties of Glamorgan and Carmarthen.As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him to-day to another question on this subject and would add that the new technical posts recently created at headquarters include an additional inspector to deal with problems of the prevention and suppression of dangerous dusts.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been called to the reference in the Annual Report of His Majesty's inspector for the Swansea Division to the fact that such precautionary measures against silicosis as the use of mist spray during boring operations, and on dusty roads, are only in use at some of the collieries in the area, and that it is desirable that the adoption of this and other preventive measures shall be more widely adopted; and if he will state what steps are being taken to enforce the adoption of such measures?

In his report for 1938 His Majesty's Divisional Inspector for the Swansea Division specially recommends the use of mist sprays "when shot firing and before debris is filled out." I have at present no power to enforce the use of mist sprays but no opportunity is lost by His Majesty's inspectors of urging their use in suitable circumstances, and I am glad to say that the number in use in the Swansea Division is steadily increasing.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has given consideration to the provision of stocks of coal in this country in advance of a possible emergency; and whether it is his intention to advise the public, and, in particular, the smaller domestic consumer, to store emergency supplies of coal?

There is no reason to anticipate any general shortage of coal, but in the circumstances of war it may not always be possible to avoid some temporary and local dislocation of distribution. It would be well therefore for consumers and distributors throughout the country to maintain their stocks of coal in peace time at such a level as will enable them to meet any such temporary shortage.I am aware that the facilities available to domestic consumers for storing coal, particularly in the case of the very small consumers, are often very limited. I do not, therefore, contemplate advising such consumers to store coal, but in consequence it is all the more necessary that the coal merchants and distributors should hold ample supplies.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland, what local authorities do not have a 44-hour week in operation for the nurses and staffs of the mental institutions in their jurisdiction; what are the institutions affected; what local authorities have such a 44-hour week in contemplation; and what institutions are affected?

pursuant to his reply(OFFICIAL REPORT, 25th July, 1939; col. 1252, Vol. 350) supplied the following information:Information received from local authorities in Scotland shows that no local authority has a 44-hour week in operation for the nurses and staff of the mental institutions under its jurisdiction, and that no authority has at present the introduction of a 44-hour week in contemplation.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will state the number of Lanarkshire teachers, including teachers of special subjects, not yet appointed to permanent posts, indicating whether they are available for non-transferred or transferred schools and the number of years they have severally been unemployed?

I am informed that the number of teachers on the waiting list of the Lanarkshire education authority who have not yet been appointed to permanent posts in Lanarkshire is 384. Of these 170 are available for transferred schools and 78 for both types of school. Of the total, 59 are in the employment of other education authorities and a very considerable number of the remainder are engaged from time to time in temporary teaching work in Lanarkshire schools. Of the teachers referred to:4 completed training in 1933.10 completed training in 1934.21 completed training in 1935.77 completed training in 1936.97 completed training in 1937.92 completed training in 1938.83 completed training in 1939.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can now make a statement on policy in regard to the Highlands and Islands, having in view the report made by the committee appointed with the approval of his predecessors in office to inquire into the conditions, and to make recommendations, in regard to that area?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now in a position to make a statement on the Highlands and Islands economic report?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can now make a statement on the Government's policy for the Highlands?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now in a position to make a statement in regard to the Highlands and Islands, in view of the report of the committee appointed to inquire into conditions there?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is in a position to inform the House as to any definite measures which he proposes to take to improve conditions in the Highlands of Scotland?

I propose to make a statement at the end of Questions in reply to these questions.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will set up a departmental or other committee to investigate the possibility of reconditioning suitable houses in Scotland to assist the slum-clearance and overcrowding problem?

Having in view the full inquiry made by the Departmental Committee on Housing presided over by Sir Thomas Whitson which reported in 1933, I do not think that the appointment of another Departmental Committee is necessary.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the Glasgow Corporation have availed themselves of the offer of the Special Areas Housing Association to build 1,700 houses?

I am informed that the offer is still under consideration by the housing committee of the corporation, who will probably reach a decision this month.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the strong desire of many workers in the principal cities of Scotland to find suitable housing accommodation near the centres of cities, where they have been accustomed to live; and whether he will consider taking any further steps to encourage the reconditioning of city houses in Scotland?

I would refer my hon. and learned Friend to the reply which I gave on the 8th July to a question on this subject by the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Kirkcaldy Burghs (Mr. Kennedy).

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that over 330,000 working-class houses for letting purposes have been built by private enterprise in England and Wales since 1st January, 1934, whereas the comparable figure for Scotland is, approximately, 8,500; that on a population basis these figures show a grave disparity; and whether, in view of these facts, he will set up immediately a Departmental or other committee of inquiry to investigate the causes that have prevented private enterprise in Scotland building more working-class houses for letting purposes?

I am aware of the disparity between the numbers of houses built by private enterprise in England and Scotland respectively, but I am not satisfied that in present circumstances I would be justified in setting up a committee of inquiry such as my hon. Friend suggests.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many persons, to date, in the Rutherglen Division have been rehoused under the slum-clearance and overcrowding programme; and the number still waiting to be rehoused?

I am informed that the number of persons who have been rehoused to date is 11,600. Although no accurate figures are available it is estimated that the number of persons still waiting to be rehoused is approximately 28,000.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that in the official guide issued for the corporation of Edinburgh, page 76, it is stated that the Taylors Hall buildings are to be preserved and that a necessary alteration will be the making of arcades to allow of street widening; and can he make any statement as to the present position?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, the Court of Session have granted interim interdict against the demolition of the buildings and I am unable to make a statement while the case is under consideration.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the condition of the River Forth in some parts is so polluted with sewage that fanners who are compelled to draw water from it are being refused licences for the public sale of milk; and whether he can say what proposals he has in view either for the cleansing of the River Forth or for the provision of a gravitation water supply for the carse of Stirling?

I am informed that Perth County Council have refused registration under the Milk and Dairies (Scotland) Act to the tenant of one farm, the water supply for which is derived from the River Forth. The enforcement of the law relating to rivers pollution prevention is a matter for the local authorities concerned. I understand that the question of providing piped water supplies in Western Stirlingshire is at present under consideration by the county council.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he is taking this year to ease the financial burden on sheep-stock holders of indebtedness at high interest charges to the Department of Agriculture for Scotland?

In terms of the moratorium now current no charges in respect of interest will accrue until Martinmas, 1940, and all payments which borrowers are able to make to the Department during this period will accordingly go in reduction of the outstanding capital debt.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now able to make a statement about the proposed pier at Portnaguran, Isle of Lewis?

I am glad to be able to state that I am now in a position to offer the County Council of Ross and Cromarty a grant on the usual conditions in aid of constructing a harbour at Portnaguran, Isle of Lewis.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the Carradale fishing fleet, numbering 23 boats, has no harbour or proper anchorage and in bad weather has to travel 12 or 18 miles from home for safe anchorage; and what action he proposes to take to remedy the position?

I am aware that the facilities for the local fishing fleet at Carradale are restricted and that the fishermen land only a small proportion of their catch there. The consideration of any measures for improvement of the facilities is in the first place a matter for the local authority.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the police have yet been able to trace the sword stolen some two years ago from the Wallace monument at Stirling; and are they still actively seeking the person or persons responsible for the theft?

The police have not so far been successful in tracing the sword or detecting the person or persons responsible for the theft, but I am informed that inquiries are still being pursued.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is in a position to make a statement regarding the threatened encroachment upon East Fortune sanatorium; and whether he will take steps to ensure that, before any irrevocable steps are taken, the local authorities concerned will be fully consulted?

I am not yet in a position to add to the replies to previous questions on this subject, about which I am in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Air. I can assure the hon. Member that the views of the local authorities concerned are fully appreciated by my right hon. Friend and myself.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will state the aggregate value of imports of textile manufactures in the first six months of this year; and whether in view of the increase in the adverse balance of trade as shown in June, His Majesty's Government are prepared to take steps to restrict further imports of such classes of goods which can be produced in the United Kingdom, by imposing a quota or forbidding further imports?

During the six months ended June, 1939, the aggregate value of textile manufactures (except apparel) imported into the United Kingdom was £9,131,000. With regard to the second part of the question, it is true that the excess of imports over exports in June of this year was somewhat greater than in June, 1938, but the excess of imports over exports during the first six months of 1939 was some £20 million less than in the first six months of 1938. In these circumstances, I cannot agree that there is any case for a departure such as my hon. Friend suggests from the policy which the Government have hitherto pursued.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make a statement on the economic and commercial negotiations with Bulgaria; and, if not, when he hopes to be able to make such a statement?

An exchange of Notes regarding the basis of trade between this country and Bulgaria has been drafted but not yet signed. In the meantime, I am unable to make any further statement.

asked the President of the Board of Trade how far the proposed cotton-barter scheme with the United States has progressed, or otherwise; whether there is any hitch in the negotiations and /or arrangements due to unforeseen difficulties; and, if so, what are the difficulties?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on the 27th July to the hon. and learned Member for Cardiff, East (Mr. T. Morris). No unforeseen difficulties have arisen in connection with the administrative arrangements which are being worked out on this side in anticipation of the passing of the necessary legislation in the U.S.A.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the expressed desire of His Majesty's Government to arrange for the wider distribution of news-films, he will consider the desirability of setting up an inquiry into the adequacy of present production arrangements of the British news-reel film companies; and also arrange for an inquiry to be made into the desirability of removing all existing restrictions which are imposed by those companies on the distribution of their films?

I see no reason to call in question the arrangements made by the existing companies for the production of newsreel films, and I have no power to intervene in their arrangements for distribution.

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many heavy and light draught horses, hacks, hunters and ponies, respectively, have been exported from this country to foreign countries during the current year; and, if this information is not available, whether he will arrange for the regular publication of such statistics?

I regret that the information asked for in the first part of the question is not available. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply which I gave him on the 18th July.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that a subsidy on exports of American cotton and American cotton goods has been brought into effect; what will be the result of this subsidy on British sales of textiles abroad; and whether he is satisfied that it does not infringe the reciprocal concessions obtained by us under the Anglo-American trade agreement?

It is not possible to foresee how, if at all, the subsidies in question will affect the relative competitive position of United Kingdom and United States cotton textile exports. As regards the third part of the question, the payment of subsidies on United States exports of cotton and cotton manufactures does not conflict with the terms of the United Kingdom-United States Trade Agreement.

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

No appointments have been made, since the 1st January last, to the permanent staff (established and unestablished) of the Board of Trade from outside the Civil Service, other than through the normal channels of recruitment. During this period 112 persons were appointed on a purely temporary basis. One has highly specialised qualifications and the others are all in the routine clerical, typing and messengerial grades.These figures do not include particulars relating to the Food (Defence Plans) Department.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many free scholarships have been granted to Woolwich and Sandhurst since the 28th July, 1938; what is the value of scholarships so awarded; what qualifications are needed in order to enter for them; how many of such scholarships went to men from elementary schools; and are militiamen open to enter for them?

The full normal charge for the three term course is £380 at Woolwich and £370 at Sandhurst, or £260 at Woolwich and £250 at Sandhurst for the son of an officer or man of the regular forces. Free places are awarded to candidates successful at the Army entrance examination solely on the basis of the means of the parent or guardian. If a free place is not granted, the fee charged may be at a reduced rate according to means. There is no restriction on the number of free places or reduced rates that may be granted.Since 28th July, 1938, 518 candidates have been admitted to Woolwich and Sandhurst. Of these, 372 have been admitted free or at reduced rates (including the special "service" reduction), namely:Seventy-six free (including Army cadets, King's cadets and apprentice tradesmen—see page 73 of Army Estimates, 1939).Two hundred and ninety-six at reduced fees.I cannot say how many of the candidates began their education in an elementary school, but 39 out of the 76 came from other than public schools. As a candidate at the Army Entrance Examination must be in possession of a School Certificate, it would not be possible to compete direct from an elementary school.Militiamen by reason of their age are ineligible for admission to the Cadet Colleges, but there are other plans for affording militiamen an opportunity of obtaining commissions after they have completed their six months' service.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of instances in which persons contracting for the mounting of yeomanry units for annual training have supplied horses imported from abroad, and then re-exported them at the end of the training; and whether he proposes to take any steps in future to ensure that such contractors shall only be permitted to supply animals from British sources?

I am not aware of any such cases. If my hon. and gallant Friend will send me any particulars that have come to his notice, I will have inquiries made.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, for public information, special visits by representatives of newspapers can be arranged to all the military training camps?

Every encouragement is being given to the Press to send representatives to military training camps, and I believe that full use is being made of the facilities offered.

asked the Secretary of State for War to what extent anti-tank practice and instruction comes into the training of coastal defence units; and whether he will encourage full-time specialisation in anti-aircraft and actual coastal defence training, especially for the North-East, West and North Coasts?

Anti-tank practice and instruction forms no part of the training of coast defence units; they and anti-aircraft units specialise fully in coast defence and anti-aircraft training, respectively.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that much Army equipment, to take one example Bren-gun carriers, has been manufactured but it not getting distributed to units; what is holding up this distribution; and whether any equipment originally manufactured for the Army in this country is being diverted to other countries?

I am not aware of any delay in distributing Bren gun carriers or other equipment to units. As regards the last part of the question, such equipment has been supplied to other countries.

asked the Secretary of State for War what was the latest date when the late Mr. Donald George Maxwell, of 17, Hamilton Road, Ealing, a sapper in the Royal Engineers (T. A.) Company 424, was medically examined by the medical authority?

Sapper Maxwell was medically examined on his enlistment on 20th February, 1939. He was not again medically examined by military authority.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many officers and other ranks were serving in the Regular

Strength of the Regular Army, Territorial Army and Reserve Forces on 1st July, 1939, as compared with the corresponding date in 1938.
—					1939.		1938.
					Officers.	Other ranks.	Officers.	Other ranks.
Regular Army	…	…	…	…	13,700*	224,036*	12,547	184,280
Regular Army Reserve of Officers and Regular Army Reserve.					9,414	112,384	9,915	135,481
Supplementary Reserve			…	…	2,562	40,253	1,879	25,425
Territorial Army		…	…	…	15,334	391,923	9,781	175,225
Territorial Army Reserve of Officers and Territorial Army Reserve.					6,426	2,194	6,756	—
* Includes Reserves called up for temporary service.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will state the number of Regular lieutenant-colonels and majors due to retire during the next six months solely on account of age; how many of these have expressed a wish for further regular employment in the Army; and in how many cases is it intended to grant this request?

The answer to the first part of the question is one lieutenant-colonel and four majors. Up to the present, three of the majors are earmarked for re-employment. No applications have been received from the other officers.

asked the Secretary of State for War what conditions he attaches to contracts for the construction of Militia tamps to prevent excessive charges for depreciation of the plant used by the contractor?

The practice in contracts under which my Department is liable for the prime cost of the work of constructing Militia camps is to stipulate that the charges to be made for depreciation of the contractor's plant are to be agreed between the two parties. These contracts are being specially supervised, and are subject to a costings investigation before payment of the final bill.

Following is the answer:

asked the Secretary of State for War whether officers now on the Regular Army Reserve of Officers, whose period of service on the active list in the rank which they now hold exceeded the period which now entitles serving officers to automatic promotion, may receive promotion on the reserve of officers?

The new time promotion conditions, which were introduced with effect from 1st August, 1938, were applicable only to officers who were serving on the active list on that date or who might be appointed to commissions in the future. They are not applicable to officers who had already retired. In war, acting or temporary promotion within establishments would be admissible, and the question of similar arrangements for officers re-employed in peace is being considered.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will state the position, in the event of general mobilisation, of members of the Regular Army Reserve of Officers who are at present serving in the Territorial Army?

All members of the Regular Army Reserve of Officers are liable to recall to the Regular Army on mobilisation, but arrangements have been made under which normally such officers who hold field rank in the Territorial Army or commissions in a Territorial Army anti-aircraft or coast defence unit, if commissioned into the Territorial Army before 3rd July, 1939, will remain with their Territorial Army units.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the successful doubling of most of the Territorial Army units, he will now allow the Yeomanry regiments to raise a second line?

No, Sir. This is not considered necessary.

asked the Secretary of State for War (1) how his Department secures tenders for building constructional work in Liverpool and district; whether by private invitation to tender, by public advertisement, or by what other method;(2) whether he proposes to provide in the Liverpool district any hutment camps or other buildings for military purposes; and will he advertise locally for tenders or in some other way give local firms the opportunity of tendering to do such work?

Tenders will shortly be issued for a number of small hutted camps in the Liverpool area. In accordance with normal practice, the firms will be selected from those noted on the Department's list of tenderers for work in the area concerned of the value and nature involved in the proposed contracts. Some 100 firms in all will be invited to tender for these contracts, and about half of that number will be local firms. It is not proposed to advertise for tenders or otherwise to depart from the Department's normal procedure.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can give the number of casualties, fatal and otherwise, in the tank, armoured-cars, and other mechanised units during the last 12 months; how many of these were caused to the men actually in the vehicles; and whether any form of defensive clothing and crash-helmets has been provided?

I regret that the information asked for in the first two parts of the question is not available. A crash- helmet for tank crews was designed, but was found unsuitable in certain respects. Trials are now being carried out with another type, which it is hoped will be suitable.

asked the Secretary of State for War what complaints he has received regarding the food supplied to militiamen; and whether he intends to take any action in the matter?

The catering organisation has been hampered by bad weather and by inexperienced staff, but every effort has been made to remedy shortcomings.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the claim of Mr. G. Smith, Park House Gardens, Thorburn, for a dependant's pension consequent upon the death of his son, the late No. 4270117, Fusilier Frederick Smith, Northumberland Fusiliers, whose death was attributable to military service in Palestine?

One of the conditions for the award of a pension under the pay warrant to the parents of a deceased soldier is that the father, if alive, must be incapable of self-support through age or infirmity. As this condition is not fulfilled in this case, I regret that a pension cannot be granted at present to Mr. Smith, but the question will be reconsidered if his position in this respect changes at any future date.

asked the Minister of Health whether sanction has been given to a loan of £15,400 to the Romford Town Council for acquisition of land in Havering Road as a council depot; whether the land has been acquired; what is the area and the actual price paid; for what purpose the land was formerly used; and what was the rateable value previous to acquisition?

The application for sanction to this loan is under consideration in my Department. The land has not been acquired.

asked the Minister of Health whether the Shrewsbury City Council have acquired, under compulsory powers, approximately 26 acres of land at Crowmoor for houses, school, allotments and extension of existing recreation ground; if so, what was the exact area and what price was paid; for what purpose had the land been used; and what was the rateable value previous to acquisition?

I assume that the hon. Member refers to the compulsory purchase order in respect of land at Crowmoor which I confirmed in February last. The order as confirmed comprised 13.5 acres. The land was agricultural land, and therefore derated. I am informed that the purchase has not yet been completed.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the obligation to hold an inquiry under the Town and Country Planning Act in cases where land is to be sold for development can be avoided by arranging to lease land for long periods; if this applies to the proposal to acquire land to build a new factory at Abingdon; and whether he will exercise his powers to deal with this case in the public interest?

There is no obligation to hold a local inquiry into proposals for the sale of land. The town council can lease the land in question without the consent of my right hon. Friend. They have, however, applied for consent to the sale, and a public local inquiry will be held on the 10th instant.

asked the Minister of Health whether his latest reports show that the Maternity Services Act is now being adequately and efficiently operated by the different local authorities concerned?

Yes, Sir. The domiciliary midwifery service set up under the Midwives Act, 1936, is in general operation throughout the country, and from the reports of my officers who have recently visited a number of areas I am satisfied that the service may be regarded as efficient. Co-operation with the maternity and child welfare services is also generally satisfactory.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the number of parishes in Suffolk that have been supplied with a laid-on water supply and have received grants from the 1934 scheme?

Schemes of piped water supply have been undertaken with the aid of rural water grant for 114 parishes in Suffolk. The amount of grant involved is £47,725.

asked the right hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners the number of sheep farms in Argyll that have been sold to the Forestry Commission during the past 12 months; the total acreage of the farms sold; the price paid per farm; and the total price?

During the past 12 months the Forestry Commissioners have acquired in Argyll 12 sheep farms extending to 16,864 acres. These farms were not purchased separately; the total price was £18,600.

asked, the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the statutory definition of an Indian in Ceylon?

For the purposes of the Immigration Law of Ceylon an Indian is defined as a native of India. I am not aware of any other definition of an Indian in the island.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the fact that repeated complaints of racial discrimination against Indians resident in Ceylon have been made by the Indian community in Ceylon to the Ceylon Government during the last five years, and to the various enactments and regulations passed by the Ceylon Government since 1929 which adversely affect the interests of the Indian community in the island, especially the scheme of repatriation; and what steps he is taking to safeguard the interests of Indians in Ceylon?

I am aware that such complaints have been made on various occasions. As regards the last part of the question, I am in consultation with the Governor as to any steps necessary to ensure that due observation is accorded to the interests of the Indian community in the island.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what protest he has received through the Government of India from the eight Congress Provisional Governments concerning discrimination against Indians in the Dominions; what action he has taken; and has he consulted the various High Commissioners on the subject-matter of the protest?

I have received no such protests.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether general permission has been given or can be given for dockyard workmen due to retire at 60 years of age without pensions to be kept on until they are 65 if their work is satisfactory and they are physically fit?

Provision has existed in the regulations for many years empowering officers in charge of Admiralty Establishments to continue the employment of workmen up to 65 years of age. Provided that their services are required, they can be fully recommended for retention if they are found to be medically fit for duty.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will state the approximate cost per day of the proposed salvage operations to the "Thetis"; the minimum number of days in which, given the most favourable weather conditions, it might be possible to beach her; whether it is anticipated that the hull, the batteries or the engines might again be usable; and, if so, the maximum value of such parts of the salved vessel as might again be brought into service?

No, Sir. The nature of the operations which may be involved is such that it is not possible to give precise answers to these questions now.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will give the number of man-days lost through unemployment for each year since 1919?

The table below shows the estimated total number of working days lost owing to unemployment in each year since 1923 (the earliest year for which comparable figures can be given) by persons aged 16 to 64 insured against unemployment in Great Britain.The figures do not include unemployment among agricultural and other classes of workers who have been brought within the scope of unemployment insurance since 1935.

Year.	Number(Million days).
1923	390
1924	350
1925	380
1926	440
1927	340
1928	380
1929	380
1930	590
1931	810
1932	850
1933	760
1934	650
1935	600
1936	520
1937	440
1938	530*
* This figure has been computed under the revised procedure for counting the unemployed introduced in September, 1937, and is, therefore, not strictly comparable with the figures for earlier dates.

It is estimated that the aggregate number of possible working days for insured persons, aged 16–64 (exclusive of agricultural and domestic workers) ranged from about 3,300 million in 1923 to about 4,200 million in 1938.

asked the Minister of Labour whether any inquiries have yet been received by the Special Commissioners regarding available factory sites in Rhondda; and when does the commissioner propose to commence clearing the proposed site at Porth?

The Commissioner for the Special Areas has acquired the sites and provided the factories for the industrial undertakings to which I referred in the answer given to the hon. Member on the 25th May. The commissioner has had no recent inquiries for industrial sites

Table showing the amount of unemployment benefit, transitional payments and unemployment allowances paid during the period 13th July, 1919, to 31st March, 1939.
Period (a).						Insurance Benefit and Transitional Benefit.	Transitional Payments and Unemployment Allowances.
						£000.	£000.
Year ended July, 1920	…	…	…	…	…	1,010	—
Year ended July, 1921	…	…	…	…	…	34,118	—
Year ended July, 1922	…	…	…	…	…	52,871	—
Year ended July, 1923	…	…	…	…	…	41,909	—
Year ended July, 1924	…	…	…	…	…	35,994	—
Year ended July, 1925	…	…	…	…	…	44,602	—
Year ended July, 1926	…	…	…	…	…	43,685	—
Period July, 1926, to March, 1927			…	…	…	38,691	—
Year ended March, 1928		…	…	…	…	36,474	—
Year ended March, 1929		…	…	…	…	46,749	—
Year ended March, 1930		…	…	…	…	45,944	—
Year ended March, 1931		…	…	…	…	92,267	—
Year ended March, 1932		…	…	…	…	80,144	30,742
Year ended March, 1933		…	…	…	…	54,150	50,400
Year ended March, 1934		…	…	…	…	40,170	48,442
Year ended March, 1935		…	…	…	…	43,785	42,199
Year ended March, 1936		…	…	…	…	42,701	42,415
Year ended March, 1937		…	…	…	…	35,320	37,429
Year ended March, 1938		…	…	…	…	36,682	36,576
Year ended March, 1939		…	…	…	…	55,094	35,393
(a) Insurance years ending in July) to 1936; financial years (ending 31st March) from 1st April, 1937.

asked the Minister of Labour what work has been carried out in North-East Cheshire by the Lancashire Industrial Sites Company, Limited; and whether a local survey can be made in these parts with a view to stimulating industrial development, with special reference to the process of setting up new and lighter industries?

I regret that no promoters of new industrial undertakings have yet been able to take advantage of the facilities available through the Lancashire Industrial Site Company, Limited, who I am confident have full information of local conditions and circumstances. in the Rhondda. Certain legal difficulties have so far prevented the commissioner from obtaining possession of the site at Porth which it is proposed to clear in order to improve amenities, but I hope that the negotiations will be brought to a successful conclusion in the near future.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will give the cost of unemployment benefit, transitional benefit, and unemployment allowance, for each year since 1919?

The following is the information required:

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will state the number of persons registered for employment in the hosiery and underwear trades who were unemployed, wholly or in part, in the whole country and in the city of Leicester, respectively, at the latest convenient date, and the percentage these figures represent, respectively, of the industry's employment at that time?

The table below shows the numbers of insured persons, aged 16-64, in the hosiery (including hosiery underwear) industry, recorded as unemployed in Great Britain and at Leicester, respectively, at 10th July, 1939, and these numbers expressed as percentages of the estimated numbers of insured persons at

—			Great Britain.		Leicester.
			Number.	Percent.	Number.	Percent.
Wholly Unemployed	…	…	3,147	2.7	430	1.4
Temporarily Stopped	…	…	2,638	2.2	475	1.6
Total	…	…	5,785	4.9	905	3.0

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will give the number of men called up under the Military Training Act in each of the Employment Exchange areas in South Wales and Monmouthshire; and will he give the number of men who were employed in the coal mines, separately?

I am having these figures extracted and will send them to the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will state the number of young men compulsorily enlisted to date as militiamen in the West Ham area and Essex county, respectively; the number registered as conscientious objectors; whether he will state when and where the tribunal for such men will commence proceedings; the nature of duty which will be imposed upon men granted complete exemption from military duty on grounds of conscience; and the time duration of such duty?

The information asked for in the first two parts of the question is not available. The tribunal in whose area West Ham and Essex will fall has not yet been set up, but it is hoped to complete its constitution at a very early date. Public notice will be given of the time and place of sittings, which will be in London.As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to Subsections (7) and (8) of Section 3 of the Military Training Act, 1939.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware that there is a considerable and unnecessary wastage of materials taking place in the construction of the Bridgend arsenal; and whether he will take steps to see that the War Office is in no way affected financially by this misuse of materials?

I am not aware of any abnormal losses of material in connection with this work and in any event any such losses would not fall on public funds, but on the contractor.

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he is yet in a position to make a statement about arrangements for the supply of air-raid shelters to householders not eligible to receive them free of charge?

As the hon. Member is aware, it has always been my intention that the standard steel shelters which are being distributed free of cost to certain classes of householders should be made available for purchase by other classes of householders as soon as a substantial part of the free distribution has been completed.The Government has placed contracts for a total number of two and a half million shelters, and approximately one half of these will have been delivered by the end of this month. In many areas the free distribution is either completed or nearly completed. In my view, therefore, the stage has now been reached when sale may properly begin, on a small scale, to householders in the more vulnerable areas who are not within the scheme of free distribution; and I propose that a small percentage of the supplies available shall be offered for sale, beginning in September. By that time the rate of supply will, it is hoped, have increased to some 55,000 shelters a week, and I propose that of these 5,000 a week should be made available for purchase. It will be necessary to restrict sales in the first instance to a limited number of those areas which are most exposed to attack, leaving other areas to be added as the state of supply and demand permits.The first sales will therefore be limited to one shelter per householder for his own use at a house in one of the following areas: —the county of London, East Ham, West Ham, 11 ford, Walthamstow, Tottenham; Birmingham; Newcastle, Sunderland and Gateshead; Manchester and Salford; and Hull. The arrangements which have been made by local authorities for the delivery of shelters issued under the scheme of free distribution have worked so admirably that I propose to ask these authorities to undertake the management of the sales. In this way the costs of distribution will be kept to a minimum, and the proper location of the shelters will be assured. It is proposed that the sales expenses of the authorities should be met by the inclusion in the selling price of a uniform sum per shelter for this purpose.Until I have had some consultation with representatives of local authorities I cannot say what this addition will be and therefore cannot say at what price the shelters will be sold; but I expect that the price, which will include delivery to the house, and will remain unchanged until 31st December next, will be under 8 per shelter. The selling price may have to be revised thereafter. The terms of sale will be cash before delivery, but if the local authority in any area desires to arrange a plan for payment by instalments, I shall be prepared to consider proposals for such a plan, which would no doubt have to include provision for an appropriate addition to the price to cover the extra cost involved.

asked the Minister of Health what complaints he has received from the voluntary hospitals concerning the proposed Government contribution in case of war casualties; and what action he proposes to take in this matter?

The matter is now under negotiation but the Government have accepted full responsibility for the cost of treatment of war casualties in voluntary hospitals. The Government propose to make payments on account, subject to adjustment at a later date. The precise basis of the payments and points arising out of the proposals are under discussion with the British Hospitals Association.

asked the hon. Member for Dulwich, as Chairman of the Kitchen Committee, how many men, women and boys, respectively, are now employed on the staff in his Department; and how many in each of such classes were employed by his Department in July, 1930?

The number of men, women and boys employed in the Kitchen Department in July, 1930, and July, 1939, is as follows:

	July, 1930.	July, 1939.
Men	68	68
Women	46	41
Boys	4	2
	118	111

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he can give an assurance that the stocks accumulated by the Government under the Essential Commodities Reserve Act will not be released without ample notice, and taking all possible steps to prevent a dislocation of the existing markets; and' whether he will consider ensuring that similar safeguards are applied to the stocks of potatoes which it is now contemplated that the Potato Marketing Board will be permitted to accumulate?

The assurance for which my hon. and learned Friend asks in regard to the liquidation of stocks acquired under the Essential Commodities Reserves Act is provided by Sub-section 3-of Section 2 of the Act. Such small purchases as the Potato Marketing Board may make under their powers to buy surplus potatoes are in a different category, but in liquidating any stocks held by them it would obviously be to the advantage of the board to do their utmost to avoid disturbance of the market.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will state the amounts and form of financial assistance given to civil aviation, and to British air companies operating overseas, between the years 1931–32 and 1938–39?

I have been asked to reply. Assistance is given by the Air Ministry to civil aviation by the provision of State-owned civil airports; by the organisation of Empire and internal air routes; by surveys and experimental flights for the development of new air routes; and by the development of new types of civil aircraft and research and technical development generally in connection with civil aviation. In addition subsidies are paid to air transport companies and grants made to light aeroplane clubs and the gliding movement. The annual cost of the above services during the period in question has been as follows:

	£
1931–32	509,627
1932–33	502,783
1933–34	477,448
1934–35	524,393
1935–36	427,699
1936–37	658,976
1937–38	1,724,286
1938–39	2,784,000 (Estimated)

Of these totals the following sums represent subsidies paid to British air companies operating overseas air routes:

	£
1931–32	394,882
1932–33	398,343
1933–34	399,959
1934–35	442,110
1935–36	325,228
1936–37	312,044
1937–38	614,072
1938–39	1,047,967

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what investments the Treasury has, directly or indirectly, in other countries; and will he state the respective amounts in each case?

I would refer the hon. Member to the Finance Accounts of the United Kingdom for the year 1938–39. These will be published shortly and I will send him a copy.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will submit a statement indicating the extent to which his revenue and expenditure statement on the 25th April 1939 has been affected on the revenue side by modifications and additions and on the expenditure side by additional expenditure; and how much he estimates to receive from taxation and how much to be met out of loan?

It is expected that the estimates of revenue given in the Financial Statement for 1939–40 will be affected as follows by changes made during the passage of the Finance Bill through Parliament: —

—	Budget Estimate.	Revised Estimate.	Reduction.
	£	£	£
Customs	232,560,000	232,300,000	260,000
Excise	116,460,000	116,430,000	30,000

It is not possible to frame any estimate of the yield of the Armament Profits Duty during the current year.On the expenditure side, the sums provided in the original estimate for the Royal Ordnance factories will not now be required as provision was made for them in the estimates for the Ministry of Supply on the transfer of the factories to that Department. Allowing for this, the supplementary estimates presented to date require an increase in the sum to be met out of revenue of £33,517,365 (covered to the extent of £25 millions by the special provision for supplementaries in the Budget Statement), and an increase in the sum to be borrowed under the Defence Loans Act of 159,929,900.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a statement as to the policy of Special Areas Reconstruction Association, Limited, in calling up part of the uncalled capital of the company; and whether further calls are to be expected in the near future?

The policy of this Association in regard to the calling up of its share capital is one for determination solely by its board of directors. I have been informed however that the Association are calling up 10s. per preference share on the 1st August.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether any circular or other communication was sent by the Inland Revenue Department at Somerset House to local inspectors of taxes following upon the passage of the Finance Act, 1932, instructing them to disallow relief from Income Tax in respect of all disablement benefits except war disablement pensions; and, if so, whether he will circulate a copy of the instruction with his answer?

I am informed that no such instruction was issued.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the Public Works Loans Board is refusing loans to local authorities in Special Areas on the grounds that their rates are too high; whether it is in accord with the Government's policy that allowance is not made for the peculiar conditions prevailing in these areas which have a greater need of assistance by loan than authorities in more prosperous areas; and what action does he propose to take?

The Public Works Loan Commissioners are under statutory obligation, in considering the propriety of granting a loan, to have regard to the sufficiency of the security offered, but they would not, I understand, necessarily regard high rates alone as a ground for refusing an application. In the year ended 31st March, 1939, the Commissioners declined to grant applications by local authorities in only five cases, two of which were subsequently granted on reconsideration. In reply to the last part of the question, it would not be proper for me to interfere with the Public Works Loan Board in the discharge of the duties laid upon them.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the waste and suffering involved in aerial warfare, he will make an immediate direct appeal to the German Government and people to consider means by which the incidence of aerial bombing in the event of war might be minimised or eliminated?

The views of His Majesty's Government regarding the principles which should form the basis for the restriction of aerial warfare were made known at the League of Nations Assembly in September, 1938, and have been re-stated from time to time, for example in the House on 8th March last. In present circumstances I do not think any useful purpose would be served by any further initiative. His Majesty's Government would, however, be prepared to consider sympathetically any suggestions which may be made to them on the subject.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he proposes to take any steps in the interest of producers and consumers of potatoes, respectively, to limit the amount of profit which may be made and loss which may be incurred by the Potato Marketing Board in the buying and selling of potatoes under the increased powers which it is now proposed to give to them?

I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend has no power to take such action as my hon. Friend suggests; but it will be obvious that the board's ability to buy surplus potatoes will in any case be very strictly limited by the amount of the funds at their disposal.

asked the Attorney-General whether he can state the number of appointments to the magisterial bench in East Suffolk since 1935, and the number of magistrates who have retired on account of their age?

Since 1935, 35 appointments (of which number 13 were of women), have been made to the magisterial bench in the county of Suffolk. The appointments are made to one Commission for the whole county, and I regret, therefore, that I am unable to say how many of this number have been allocated to East Suffolk. Twenty-five magistrates have resigned since 1935, and 18 have been placed on the Supplemental List. Justices do not always indicate the reasons for their retirement, and I am unable to state, therefore, how many of this figure have resigned or been placed on the Supplemental List on account of their age.

asked the Attorney-General whether his attention has been drawn to the remarks of the registrar of the Clerkenwell county court in a recent case where the defendant was a woman with 14 children; and whether any action has been taken?

My Noble Friend, the Lord Chancellor, greatly deprecates ex cathedra observations of the nature referred to in the question by judicial personages in whatever sense, and has so informed the registrar.