asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that difficulties are being experienced by men serving in the Army in securing consideration of their claims for special allowances in respect of their financial obligations; and whether he will take steps to facilitate consideration of these claims?

I have no evidence that the machinery for considering claims for special assistance is working unsatisfactorily. It may assist if I inform the hon. Member that the requisite form of application is to be obtained from the regimental paymaster of the unit to which the soldier belongs. The paymaster will inform the applicanťhow to proceed.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider continuing payment of allowances to children of men serving in the Army from 14 years to 16 years of age in cases where the child continues at school up to that age?

Instructions are about to be issued authorising the payment of family allowance in respect of soldiers' children, otherwise eligible, who remain at school after the age at which attendance is compulsory.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that families of serving soldiers are applying to the public assistance committees for relief, owing to the inadequacy of the allowances; and will he consider revising the scales immediately?

The present scales of family and children's allowances for serving soldiers have been in existence for a considerable time and are common to all three Service Departments. If the hon. Member is referring to soldiers who have joined the Colours for service in connection with the present war, it is recognised that there may be cases of harship which are not met by the normal scale of allowances, and in such cases the soldier has access to the Military Service (Special Allowances) Advisory Committee.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that when Gunner C. A. Lewis, of 34, Clonmell Road, Tottenham, was called up as a reservist to the 4th Anti-Aircraft Battery, 2nd Regiment, Royal Artillery, on the 8th September, he handed over his clothes and personal belongings for despatch to his home address, and on the 12th September was discharged as medically unfit; that Lewis has since written six letters to his record office, Warley, Essex, explaining that he is without his clothes, money, identification papers, health and unemployment insurance cards, and is thereby unable to resume his employment; and will he take immediate steps to have this matter rectified?

An immediate report on this case has been called for, and I will communicate with the hon. Member as soon as I have the necessary information.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Territorials under the age of 20 are being sent overseas?

A Territorial who enlisted before the war can be sent abroad at the age of 19.

asked the Secretary of State for War what are the rates of pay of the rank and file in the Women's Auxiliary Territorial Service, and how these compare with rates of pay of privates in the expeditionary force?

For women who have undertaken the general service obligation, the rates of pay of the rank and file of the Auxiliary Territorial Service begin at is. 4d. a day, which is two-thirds of the pay of a private, and rise to 3s. 10d., the pay of a sub-leader (corresponding to corporal) who has passed a trade test. A few women enrolled in peace to serve only while living at home receive is. a day. The rates quoted are exclusive of allowances.

asked the Secretary of State for War what was the nature of the inoculation given to Sergeant Archie Mitchell, whose death by misadventure was recorded at an inquest held at Colchester on 12th September; and whether steps will be taken to avoid such an unfortunate occurrence in the future?

The inoculation was given for the prevention" of the typhoid group of fevers. Death was proved by subsequent medical examination to be due to a congenital condition which predisposed to the fatality. A considerable number of other men were inoculated with the same vaccine without untoward results. I should like to take this opportunity of expressing the sympathy of the War Office with Serjeant Mitchell's relatives.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in the case of officers of the Customs and Excise of military age who desire to enlist in the Defence forces, he will instruct the Board to release them in any cases where they are not fully and indispensably employed?

Officers in the Customs and Excise Service who are below the reserved age of 25 applicable to civil servants generally are permitted to enlist in the fighting services; officers of 25 years of age and over now come within the schedule of reserved occupations and could not therefore at present be accepted for whole-time service in the National Defence services.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that so many commissioned ranks who have either joined or re-joined the British military forces during the last 12 months are in possession of newly-acquired blue patrol dress, he will permit officers to wear it in the evenings at home stations, as was the custom throughout the Great War?

Since it is desired to relieve officers of all avoidable personal expenses, I do not think it would be desirable to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion, which would be bound to cause embarrassment to officers not in possession of the blue patrol dress.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that by origin and association as military accoutrement, the Sam Browne belt has become so closely identified with the history of British land forces, he will permit officers to wear a cross-brace to the belt, should they wish to do so?

With the practical disappearance of the sword, there is no purpose in retaining the cross-brace except in the case of units armed with the sword.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that single fare for double journey imposes considerable hardship on men in the Army, he will arrange that free railway warrants may be issued for journeys home when on leave, particularly for the last leave before proceeding overseas?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Cardiff South (Colonel A. Evans) and the hon. Member for Deptford (Mr. W. H. Green) on Tuesday, 26th September.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the position of men doing outpost duty in the National Defence Corps, whose weekly pay of 7s., after deducting allowance, is proving inadequate; and whether he will take into consideration that these men are proficient soldiers, having served in the last war, and many of whom gained honours, but that they are now receiving less pay than men with less service who are on full Army pay?

The hon. Member is under a misapprehension in suggesting that men of National Defence Companies are less favourably treated than men of the Regular Army. Any personnel of the National Defence Companies who have previous Colour service will count such service for increments of pay given after one, two or three years' service, respectively, in the rank of private or equivalent rank. Educational proficiency pay also is admissible for any men who were qualified for this emolument on being called out for service. They will become eligible for war time proficiency pay on completion of six months' war service rendered after 3rd September, 1939 (as in the case of regular soldiers), which will be in replacement of any award of educational proficiency pay in issue. Special proficiency pay will be admissible for them after a total three years' Colour service, including previous Colour service, provided that they satisfy the conditions attaching to this emolument in time of war for Regular soldiers.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can give any information in connection with four soldiers and other men who were killed near Sherborne, Dorset, on Saturday night during the black-out?

I have called for a report, but it is not yet available. I will write to the hon. Member as soon as I have the necessary information.

asked the Attorney-General (1) whether he is aware that, not infrequently, wills contain conditions specifying that the vesting of bequests is to be postponed until the legatees reach a certain age; and as compulsory service conditions in war-time may prevent effect being given to such bequests, whether he will investigate the whole question of the best methods of dealing with bequests of this nature;(2) whether, in view of the fact that bequests in wills are often conditional upon the legatee's being in the testator's employment at the time of his death, the Government proposes to consider the effect on such bequests when legatees are called up for service operations?

With the permission of my hon. Friend I will answer these two questions together. The matters raised could only be dealt with by legislation which would alter the dispositions made by testators. My Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor does not think that such legislation would be right or practicable. In so far as my hon. Friend has in mind dispositions at present made by will by those who have not yet died, I would point out that these dispositions can be altered.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will give figures showing the number of miners that are unemployed in Wales, England and Scotland, respectively?

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the number of miners registered as unemployed at the nearest available date?

At nth September, 1939, the numbers of insured persons, aged 16–64, in the coal-mining industry recorded as unemployed were 49,588 in England (excluding Monmouthshire), 9 687 in Scotland, and 17,292 in Wales and Monmouthshire, making a total of 76,567.

asked the Minister of Labour (1) whether instructions have been issued to insurance officers dealing with the position of unemployed married women applicants for insurance benefit in reception areas where children have been billeted in their homes;(2) What are the terms of the secret circular sent out for the guidance of courts of referees in determining the claims of unemployed married women to insurance benefit, and, particularly, as to their availability for employment when evacuees have been billeted upon them; and will such circular be made available to trade union officials where their members are concerned?

As the hon. Member will be aware, claims to unemployment benefit are determined not by the Minister of Labour but by independent statutory authorities, namely, Insurance Officers, Courts of Referees and the Umpire. The Chief Insurance Officer has drawn the attention of local Insurance Officers to the Unemployment Insurance (Emergency Powers) Regulations, 1939, which, in effect, provide that persons who look after refugees under an approved evacuation scheme shall not on that account be regarded as failing to satisfy the conditions for benefit regarding unemployment and availability for work, and has intimated that a decision from the Umpire should be sought on the question whether the taking in of such refugees is a good cause for refusing or leaving employment.

asked the Minister of Labour when it is proposed to pay unemployment benefit to a number of workmen at the Cwmtilly Colliery, Monmouthshire, whose claim was admitted some months ago, and arose out of payment for Easter Monday?

I am having inquiries made and will communicate with the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will re-state the age limits and conditions for exemption from military service of agricultural tractor drivers, as autumn land cultivations are being seriously upset by the continued recruitment of such men?

I am not aware that recruitment of agricultural tractor drivers has been on the scale suggested. The age of reservation of these workers in the Schedule of Reserved Occupations is 21 years, but the details of the Schedule are open to revision from time to time.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered, in conjunction with the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretary of State for War, what steps may be taken to allow men who have lost their jobs and are without expectation of receiving employment, to enlist in His Majesty's Forces; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?

As broadcast by the B.B.C. on 1st September, arrangements are in existence for men who may wish to volunteer for service in the Armed Forces of the Crown for the period of the emergency to register their particulars at a local office of the Ministry of Labour and National Service. I understand that a limited number of these volunteers are being enlisted in the Army, and that the question of the enlistment in the future of further numbers of volunteers is at present under consideration.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is in a position to state on what date men made liable to be called up for service by the Proclamation issued on 1st October will be required to register?

Yes, Sir, on Saturday, 21st October. I may add that the arrangements for registration at the local offices of the Ministry of Labour and National Service will be on similar lines to those of 3rd June last when the registration of the militiamen took place. Full information will be given of these arrangements in due course by means of posters, notices in the Press and announcements by the B.B.C.

asked the Minister of Labour when the special regional committees and councils to advise boys and girls from secondary schools as to the choice of a career will be set up in County Durham and the North of England; and give particulars of the locality of such?

It is not proposed, for the present, to proceed further with the establishment of special committees to advise boys and girls from secondary schools.

asked the Minister of Labour to whom Mr. W. Lucia, engaged for duty at a Militia training depot at Devizes, through the Employment Exchange, Doncaster, should apply for compensation for the accident sustained in the course of his employment on 19th September last?

Under the Workmen's Compensation Act, any claim for compensation resulting from an accident arising out of and in the course of a worker's employment should be made to the employer.

asked the Home Secretary whether he will state the progress made in the supply of Anderson shelters to the Consett area; and when it is anticipated that this will be complete?

Applications have been received from Consett for 3,246 shelters. The majority of these applications were only received during the past few, weeks: but 2,100 of the shelters applied for have already been delivered or are now in course of delivery. It is expected that the balance will have been delivered by the end of this month.

asked the Home Secretary (1) how many public air-raid shelters have been provided in Glasgow; and whether, in the main thoroughfares, any basements or other suitable accommodation have been requisitioned as emergency shelters;(2) What progress has been made in planning the scheme for strengthening the closes of tenement buildings in Glasgow; how many have been completed to date; and in what part of the city?

I am writing to the hon. Member sending him the information for which he asks.

asked the Minister of Health whether any steps have yet been taken, or are likely to be taken, to secure further co-ordination between reception areas for evacuees to enable redistribution and transference to take place; and whether authority can be given to local reception areas to acquire halls for the partial use of evacuees where the owners or tenants have refused to grant such a facility?

Arrangements have been made under which the regional officers of my Department have been authorised to agree with local authorities for the redistribution of evacuated persons as between individual districts in relation to the accommodation available. As regards the second part of the question it is clearly desirable that where possible arrangements for the use of halls should be made by mutual agreement. Clerks of local authorities, however, have received certain powers of requisitioning under the Defence Regulations.

asked the Minister of Health what arrangements have been made to compensate occupiers of houses who have received evacuees in those cases where the evacuees have left and the houses require cleaning and disinfecting, and where blankets and bed-clothes have to be washed; and what is to be the procedure by which the occupier can obtain such compensation?

I have informed the local authorities that claims by householders may be made in respect of damage. This applies in the case of damage caused by infestation of bedding or household equipment, and householders may submit claims on this account to the local authorities. I am issuing instructions to local authorities to enable them to deal with such claims.

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the possibility of claims for damages at common law on householders in reception areas from parents in respect of accidents occurring to their children billeted in reception areas; and, if so, with what results?

I have not had occasion to consider the particular question raised by the hon. Member; the matter would be one in the first instance for a court and I should not like to anticipate the administrative action which might be necessitated by litigation of this kind.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that 35,000 more evacuated children are to be sent to the country, he will ensure that in every case medical inspection will be carried out before they leave town, with the object of avoiding criticisms which have been made against previous evacuees in different districts?

Yes, Sir. I have instructed evacuating local authorities before dispatching any further parties to the reception areas to carry out a medical inspection and, where necessary, the efficient treatment, of all children to be included in the parties.

asked the Minister of Health whether it is the intention of the State to reimburse those recipients of evacuated children who have been compelled, owing to the conditions under which the children were sent to the country, to fit them out with decent clothing, boots and similar effects; and, if not, why such refunds cannot be made?

I greatly appreciate the sympathy and affection which has prompted people to spend their own money on providing evacuated children with clothing and boots, but I must make it clear that there is no obligation on them to do so. It would be impossible officially to reimburse a large number of persons for acts of private generosity without a series of financial checks and inspections which would completely cut across the spirit in which such help was given, besides causing a very great amount of clerical labour. The responsibility for providing children with clothes and boots rests primarily with their parents. Voluntary organisations are also doing much to assist in cases of need. Where parents are unable to make the necessary provision application may be made to the Unemployment Assistance Board in the case of those who are within the scope of unemployment assistance schemes as expanded by emergency legislation, and to the public assistance authority in other cases.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that some working-class homes in the country are struggling to keep on 8s. 6d. a week the children of people who are sufficiently wealthy to pay them visits in motor cars; and whether he will, without delay, enforce some means test in cases of this nature?

As I informed the House yesterday, the Government are taking steps to recover from parents a reasonable proportion of the cost of billeting school children under the evacuation scheme.

asked the Minister of Health what are the results, up to date, of his consultations with organisations interested in the provision of clothing and shoes for necessitous children in connection with the evacuation scheme?

A number of schemes have now been set on foot for the collection and provision of boots and clothing for necessitous children. Steps are also being taken to get in touch with parents, on whom the primary responsibility rests, and to request them to send such clothes as they can provide. I hope to issue a circular to local authorities on the subject shortly.

asked the Minister of Health whether his Department has considered or is considering the adoption of any long-term policy with regard to the evacuation of children; and whether he can make any statement on the subject?

My Department has under constant consideration the working of the arrangements in the reception areas. Improvements and developments, and revision of policy where called for, are being brought from day to day to the notice of the local authorities. Further developments and adaptations will no doubt prove desirable from time to time and I shall keep the necessity for these under close review.

asked the Minister of Health what instances of the communal feeding of evacuated mothers and children have been brought to his notice; whether he can give the names of the localities concerned; and whether any statistics as to cost have been supplied?

Local authorities have been encouraged to organise communal meals for mothers and young children as well as for school children, and I understand from various sources that arrangements are being started in some areas, but I have not so far any tabulated information. The cost of providing meals varies to some extent according to the locality, the arrangements which have to be made, and the materials. At a somewhat later stage I hope, together with my noble Friend the President of the Board of Education, who is also concerned with the provision of communal meals, to be able to obtain wider and more detailed information.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the friction caused by the present billeting arrangements and the possibility that the period during which children cannot return to their homes will be a long one, he will consider the possibility of greatly increasing the number of proposed Government school camps?

The possibility of extending the present programme under the Camps Act is being borne in mind, but must be considered in conjunction with the great demand for labour and materials in connection with hutted accommodation for other essential purposes.

asked the Home Secretary whether he has progress to report concerning the reduction of the salaried personnel employed in Civilian Defence?

I have been giving close attention to the problem of adapting the organisation of civil defence personnel to meet present conditions. In the case of the Auxiliary Fire Service, a memorandum has already been issued to fire authorities throughout England and Wales, indicating the principles on which they should proceed to determine their appropriate war establishment of whole-time paid personnel, and I expect that reorganisation on the lines proposed will result in considerable reductions of cost.On the side of the A.R.P. General Services, I have been in communication with the Regional Commissioners with a view to obtaining the benefit of their knowledge of local conditions in reviewing our requirements. The variety of the services concerned presents a complex problem, but I am now framing definite directions for the guidance of authorities in settling their establishments of whole-time personnel so as to reduce, so far as practicable, the burden on public funds, while maintaining everywhere a civil defence organisation adequate to the needs of the locality. These directions will be issued to the authorities at an early date.

asked the Home Secretary on what date the local authorities were asked to furnish particulars of the number of persons on their pay-roll and the amounts paid to them in connection with Civilian Defence; whether these particulars are now available; and, if so, whether he can state the estimated annual cost involved?

Local authorities were asked to furnish these particulars on various dates between the 15th and 23rd September. Only about a quarter of the returns have so far been received, and, apart from the fact that establishments are now in process of revision, it would not be possible, on the basis of these figures, to make an estimate of the total expediture involved.

asked the Home Secretary whether his Department instructs local authorities that where paid personnel is required, in the case of women, wives of serving soldiers should have preference, and, in the case of men, that the British Legion should be approached to submit names of suitable men?

No specific instructions have been issued by my Department to local authorities with regard to particular categories of volunteers, whether men or women, who should be given preference in appointment to whole-time paid posts in the Civil Defence services. Preference is, no doubt, very properly given to volunteers already enrolled who have completed their training. I understand that members of the British Legion have volunteered in large numbers for Civil Defence duties.

asked the Minister of Supply what is the constitution and nature of the Wool Control; what staff is being employed, and how was it selected; what the powers and activities of the control are; and the names of the responsible directors and their salaries?

The Wool Control has been instituted for the purpose of regulating the supplies, prices and distribution of wool. The staff at present employed numbers 350 and the technical officers have been selected by the Controller from firms engaged in the trade. The present powers of the Control are contained in three orders which I have made under the Defence Regulations, 1939, and provide that dealings in wool in the United Kingdom shall only be conducted under licence and at prices not exceeding certain maxima. In addition, powers have been taken to obtain returns of stocks of wool and other information necessary for the effective working of the Control. Collaboration is also maintained with Government Departments in the arrangements for placing orders for goods made of wool.The Control, which is a Department of the Ministry, is under the direction of Sir Harry Shackleton, with Mr. W. A. Crowther as his deputy, both of whom have offered their services without remuneration.

asked the Minister of Supply what is the composition of the Timber Control Board; and what are the qualifications for the work of the various members?

The Timber Control is an Executive Department of my Ministry composed of a Controller assisted by four Deputy Controllers and the necessary technical and clerical staff. The Controller, Major Harris, and three of the Deputy Controllers dealing respectively with imported timber supplies, with requirements and distribution, and with finance, were taken from the timber trade, and the fourth Deputy-Controller, in charge of the Department concerned with home-grown timber supplies, is the Chairman of the Forestry Commission.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information what expenditure has been incurred on posters and upon whose advice this scheme was undertaken?

In reply to the first part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer which I gave on the 3rd instant to the hon. Member for Gates-head (Mr. Magnay). The scheme was undertaken on the advice of the nucleus staff of the Ministry, which included certain well known publicity experts; and after consultation with a leading firm of advertising agents, who were employed to prepare the designs and arrange the distribution. These arrangements were approved by my right hon. Friend the Lord Privy Seal.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information whether he is aware that news bulletin times are inconvenient for workers in the North; and whether he will consider returning to the normal times?

My Noble Friend is bringing the hon. Member's suggestion to the notice of the B.B.C, who are keeping the question of the best timing of News Bulletins under constant review.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information whether any action has been taken to assure the Embassies and Legations of neutral countries that if the London correspondents of newspapers of their respective countries return to their posts they will receive every consideration and help in forwarding their messages without vexatious regulations as to language or delay in transmission?

I stated in the replies given on the 28th September to the hon. Member for Clay Cross (Mr. Ridley) and on the 3rd October to the hon. and gallant Member for Cambridge (Lieut.-Commander Tufnell) that the Ministry is doing everything possible in consultation with the other Departments concerned, to facilitate the work of the representatives of newspapers in neutral countries. I would now add, as regards the censorship, that censors are available for dealing with messages in all the languages required.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he will state the position with regard to the putting into force of the Potato Marketing Control Scheme?

Plans for controlling the distribution of potatoes are in an advanced state of preparation and will be put into operation when circumstances render this course necessary.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware that the present meat control arrangements, so far as they apply to the London area, are causing serious confusion; that there is, in consequence, a shortage of supplies, unnecessary journeys for retail butchers, with a wastage of petrol, a distribution of much meat of an unsatisfactory nature, unequal distribution between purchasers and complaints of unfairness; and as a feeling of resentment and anger has been aroused, will he reconsider his refusal to re-open Smithfield market?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative and I would refer the hon. Member in this connection to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Camberwell North (Mr. Ammon) on the 26th September. The scheme permits in the aggregate of a saving in transport in delivery from the distributing depots to shops owing to the shorter journeys entailed. Arrangements have been made whereby representatives of retail butchers, nominated by the National Federation of Meat Traders' Associations, are co-operating with the staff of each depot in ensuring equitable distribution. I am not aware of any grounds for complaint, but I should be glad to make inquiries into any case which the hon. Member may care to bring to my notice.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he proposes to discontinue the fixing of maximum prices for food as these are now being the only prices charged?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave yesterday on the same subject to a question by the hon. and learned Member for Greenock (Mr. R. Gibson).

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware of the serious position of beekeepers throughout the country owing to their inability to obtain supplies of sugar; that the loss of large numbers of bees would imperil our fruit crops next year; and, in these circumstances, will he instruct the sugar controller in each area to arrange for sugar supplies through the various bee-keepers' organisations?

Arrangements have been in force for some time whereby bee-keepers applying to the local Food Control Committee through their appropriate organisations can secure supplies of sugar without delay.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether, in order to avoid duplication and to secure economy and efficiency, he will utilise, as in the last war, the experienced services of inspectors of weights and measures as enforcement officers respecting food and coal, and in connection with area food controllers and their committees?

I can assure the hon. Member that I have in mind the advantages of using the services of inspectors of weights and measures for the work which he suggests in connection with food control. As regards coal I am advised by my hon. Friend the Secretary for Mines, that inspectors of weights and measures were not used in the last war. The local fuel overseers, appointed by the local authorities, now have the administering of the fuel and lighting order, and it will be for the local fuel overseer to decide what means he uses for enforcing the order.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware of the difficulties in some rural areas which have accepted evacuated children in considerable numbers, of getting sufficient milk locally because of the Milk Marketing Board arrangements; and what steps have been taken to divert sufficient milk from the towns to these areas?

According to my information, ample supplies of liquid milk have been ensured in all areas through the machinery of the Milk Marketing Board. If the hon. Member would let me know the areas to which her question relates I should be pleased to have further inquiries made.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether, to acclimatise various town residents to country conditions, he will arrange for the better organisation of the supply of fish and chips in rural districts?

At the present time neither the supply of fish nor the supply of potatoes is under the control of the Ministry of Food, and it would, therefore, be difficult for me to make the arrangements my hon. Friend suggests. I think, however, that if there is a real demand for an increased supply of fish and chips in rural districts, the trade concerned may be relied upon to take steps to meet the demand.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the payment which is still being withheld, can now be made for the shipments of tea requisitioned by the Government on 5th September, to avoid the grave inconvenience to merchants who were required to pay premiums on their stocks, under the War Risks Insurance Act, not later than 20th September?

Forms to enable claims for payment to be detailed are now being issued and every effort is being made to effect payment as quickly as possible.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the recent restriction of services has led to even further overcrowding on the London suburban railways, particularly that to Romford and Brentwood; and whether he will take steps either to replace all first-class compartments on these lines by third-class or to authorise third-class passengers to use first-class compartments without extra charge when there is insufficient accommodation?

I am aware that the curtailment of normal railway services has caused inconvenience to the public, but every effort is being made to give the best services possible in existing circumstances. In regard to first-class compartments, I cannot add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Deptford (Mr. W. H. Green) on 20th September.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that all cheap travelling facilities given by the London Passenger Transport Board have been continued; and whether he can take action to restore similar facilities on the other railways operating in the London suburban areas?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave yesterday on this subject. I am sending him a copy.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has made arrangements to ensure that there will be sufficient garage and repair facilities to enable essential road vehicles of all kinds to be kept in repair?

I have not considered it necessary to set up any special organisation to deal with the repair and garaging of essential road vehicles, but in each civil region a representative has been appointed by the National Service Committee of the Retail Motor Trade who will, if required, be prepared to advise the Regional Transport Commissioner on these matters.

asked the Minister of Transport whether any proposal to restrict the free choice of methods of goods transport best suited to meet public requirements is being considered by his Department; and whether, before any such order be made, Parliamentary sanction will be sought?

I am not aware of any proposal to restrict the free choice of methods of goods transport, and no order of the kind suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend is in contemplation. He will however appreciate that the rationing of fuel for road transport may ultimately have the effect of restricting the use of road transport for certain classes of goods.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that Mr. Frederick Morris, of 21, Roberts Avenue, Newcastle-under-Lyme, served during the last war in three batteries of the Royal Garrison Artillery; that he suffered in France with trench fever, bronchitis, and the effect of heavy fire; that several doctors have stated that his present nervous state is due to his war service; that he sits in a chair wearing a steel belt and strapped up with artificial limbs due to the amputation of his legs; and, as according to the doctors' advice all the trouble is due to war service, what is the explanation of the treatment of this man, and has the letter forwarded to the Ministry been considered?

Mr. Morris is in receipt of disablement pension at the maximum rate of 40s. in respect of the amputation of his legs together with wife's allowance of 10s. and a constant attendance allowance of 15s. a week.The letter to which the hon. Member refers has been fully considered, but, as I have already informed him, a recent medical examination failed to disclose the presence of any special nervous condition, or of any condition due to war service which calls for special treatment beyond that available under the National Health Insurance Acts.

asked the Home Secretary how many experiments were performed on animals at the War Department experimental ground, Porťon, during the year 1938, and how many on each kind of animal used?

I have been asked to reply. During 1938 the number of experiments performed on animals at Porton was:

asked the Secretary for Mines whether it is intended to ration the supply of gas for lighting and heating; and what effect this will have on the output of benzol and other coal-tar products which are needed for the prosecution of the war?

The supply of gas is rationed to non-industrial and small industrial premises but not to industry generally. Some decline in the production of by-products may result from rationing, but this should be offset by reason of increased industrial consumption of gas and increased activity at coke ovens. It is from the latter that the largest supplies of benzol are obtained. As regards benzol production, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Consett (Mr. David Adams) on 3rd October.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he intends to issue a circular to Government Departments authorising them not to retire compulsorily ex-service men who are still physically fit but who have not yet been allowed to count enough of their un-established service to entitle them to a pension; and whether he will instruct them to re-engage such men who have recently retired and are physically fit in preference to giving temporary employment to young women and men to whom other forms of service are open?

A Treasury circular, of which I am sending my hon. and gallant Friend a copy, has been issued to Departments regarding the retention, during the war period, of officers who would otherwise retire on age grounds and the re-employment of officers who have already retired.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will give a list of the appointments with a salary of £1,000 a year and over which the Treasury has sanctioned since the outbreak of war?

I will obtain and send to my hon. and gallant Friend a list of the appointments made since the outbreak of war of persons, not already serving in the Civil Service, to posts with a salary of £1,000 a year and over.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) whether he will state the reason for the ban which has been put on the sale to Canada of Canadian securities held in this country; and whether this ban is a permanent or a temporary measure;(2) whether he is aware that Canadian securities have been sold to New York by British holders at much lower prices than those ruling in Canada and resold by New York houses to Canada; and what steps he is taking in the matter?

Under the Canadian exchange regulations purchases of securities from non-residents are prohibited except with permission. I understand that permission is not at present being granted by the Canadian authorities for purchases from any non-resident whether in the United Kingdom, in the United States or elsewhere. No action has been taken here beyond informing the Stock Exchange and other inquirers of the position in Canada.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury when it is proposed to reopen the national museums and galleries in London?

I cannot say when it will be possible to reopen the national museums and galleries in London.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether consideration has been given to the suggestion that the Government should establish a moratorium stabilising the interest rates on municipal loans; and, if so, is it intended to take any action?

I do not consider that the suggestion to which the hon. Member calls attention is a practical one. Municipal loans cannot be treated in isolation and the terms upon which they can be raised are of necessity related to market conditions. It is, of course, the Government's policy that interest rates should be as low as circumstances allow.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that though the Old Age Pensions Acts were consolidated in 1936 after substantial amendment in 1924 the old age pension regulations have not been revised since 1922; and whether he will take steps to bring the latter into line with the Act of 1936?

There is nothing in the Old Age Pensions Act, 1924, to render the 1922 Statutory Regulations obsolete and their validity was specifically preserved by Section 14 of the Old Age Pensions Act, 1936, which consolidated the law on this subject. The passing of this Act has, however, rendered inappropriate one or two references to earlier Acts repealed thereby and steps will be taken to make fresh Regulations in due course.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will state the amount of Entertainments Duty revenue received from cinemas in the week preceding the war and for the weeks since then?

The records which are kept do not enable the desired information to be given.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether, before the functions of the Import Duties Advisory Committee were suspended, the Committee made any recommendations for an increase in the duty on plywood; and, if so, what action it is proposed to take on the recommendation?

Yes, Sir. On 25th July last, the Import Duties Advisory Committee recommended the imposition of an additional duty of 10 per cent., over and above the general ad volorem duty of 10 per cent., on gaboon mahogany plywood. The recommendation was designed to deal primarily with imports from Germany and, in the altered circumstances, no useful purpose would be served by making an Order as recommended. I may add that arrangements have been made for the recommendation to be published to-day as Command Paper 6113.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will supply particulars of local authorities with rates of more than 15s. in the pound, which now receive in block grants under the 1929 Derating Act, less than the local revenue which they surrendered through derating?

The apportionment of the General Exchequer Contribution under the Local Government Acts, 1929 and 1937; to counties and county boroughs, is in every case far greater than the local revenues surrendered through derating, but to ascertain whether any particular county districts have suffered loss through derating would, on account of the numerous alterations of boundaries, involve heavy additional work both to my Department and to the local authorities which could not be justified under existing conditions.

asked the Minister of Health whether he has any record, or will take steps to compile a record, of the approximate number of tenants involved in rent strikes; the number who have secured reductions or prevented increases in rents due to strike action; the total weekly amount thus saved for the tenants; what action he proposes to take to deal with the grievances of working-class tenants; and whether he will consider the provision of fair rent courts?

The information asked for in the first three parts of the question is not available and could not be obtained without extensive inquiries which I do not consider justifiable in present circumstances. With regard to the last two parts of the question, the Rent and Mortgage Interest Restrictions Act, 1939, is now in operation. I do not consider that any action on the lines suggested is required.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in the interest of public health, he will seek powers to prohibit the manufacture of all patent medicines not approved by his Department as beneficial to public health?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given on the 4th August by my right hon. and learned Friend, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, to a question put by my hon. and gallant Friend, the Member for Blackburn (Captain Elliston). As stated in that answer, it was the intention to appoint a committee to examine both the control and the taxation aspects of the proprietary medicines question, but in view of the outbreak of war the appointment of the committee has been postponed, and the question of legislation must remain in abeyance.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the urgent need in Northumberland and Durham for the erection of some thousands of working-class dwellings to replace slums, he is prepared to allow a gradual resumption of demolition and rebuilding in areas where building materials and building labour are available and unused?

I can assure the hon. Member that the housing position is under close and continuous review in relation to the demands on building materials and building labour for other purposes.

asked the Minister of Health, in view of the proposed extension of the milk-in-schools scheme, and especially in regard to the larger volume of milk which will be supplied to young children, what steps it is proposed to take to ensure that the milk supplied for this scheme shall be free of tubercle and other infections or else treated in such a way as to render it safe; and whether he can give an assurance that in no case will young children be obliged to drink milk under these schemes that is not either pure or safe?

The recent scheme for the supply of milk to nursing and expectant mothers and children under five years provides that the source and quality of the milk supplied must be approved by the medical officer of health of the welfare authority.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the closing of various theatres and cinemas by order of the Government, the proprietors will be allowed relief from rates; and whether local authorities will be so informed?

I do not think that I can usefully add to the answer which I gave to my hon. Friend yesterday.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the emergency situation, he will decide not to proceed with the Water Undertakings Bill at the present moment?

It has been decided not to proceed with this Bill this Session.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the prejudicial effect of the war on all housing activities and the intensified demand for accommodation, he will consider the temporary suspension of Section 155 (3) of the Housing Act, 1936, which prevents the letting of empty houses which are the subject of a demolition order?

I recently advised local authorities that their action under clearance and individual demolition orders should stop short of demolition. I am keeping the housing position generally under close observation in view of the quantities of building materials available, and although I am not at present satisfied that the course suggested by my hon. Friend is necessary, I will bear it in mind.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the fact that single fare for double journey imposes considerable hardship on men in the Navy, he will arrange that free railway warrants may be issued for journeys home when on leave?

The question of wartime travelling concessions for naval personnel is under consideration.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of the increasing demands for the extension of cheap agriculture credits to enable farmers in the industry to avail themselves of the facilities of recent Government legislation?

Yes, Sir. As I stated on 2nd October in reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Evesham (Mr. De la Bére), I have every reason to suppose that in present circumstances increased credit will be available through normal channels, but I shall continue to watch the situation.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether he will consider urging local authorities in providing meals for necessitous school children to include at least a minimum of fresh butter, cheese and fresh fruit; and whether he will cause inquiries to be carried out as to the terms upon which these could be purchased in bulk at appropriate seasons, with a view to their inclusion in school children's meals, in addition to the normal present diet of meat and potatoes and dried vegetables?

While there is still scope for considerable improvement in the meals provided for necessitous undernourished school children it is not the case that the normal present diet consists of meat, potatoes and dried vegetables. Under normal conditions fresh fruit is recommended by the Board's officers as an essential when planning the dietaries, and local education authorities are advised that each mid-day meal should include either fresh fruit or fresh vegetables. The inclusion of dishes made with cheese is also recommended. The adoption of the Board's recommendations under present conditions will of course depend on the extent to which these foods will be available in war-time.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education how many school children have been evacuated into areas where the local authorities do not provide free or reduced-price milk to school children; and whether any steps are being taken to ensure that children who were having milk in their home schools shall not be deprived of this important service?

These questions are discussed in Section VI of the Board's Circular 1475 of which I am sending a copy to the hon. Member. The number of children evacuated to areas where free milk is not provided for local children cannot be stated, but as the cost of free milk for children who were receiving it in their former schools will be charged to the evacuating authority, the fact that in a few areas free milk is not provided for local children should not prevent evacuated children from receiving it. The Milk-in-Schools Scheme is in operation in some or all of the schools in all the reception areas except Morecambe. The Board are anxious that so far as possible children who took milk in their home schools should continue to receive it in their new schools.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what are the rates of pay for civilian employés in all Service establishments; what is the scale for new entry unskilled workers in these establishments; how do these rates compare with those paid under trade union rules, when comparable; and what scheme is there for compensation to dependants in the event of casualties resulting from enemy action?

The Service Departments determine rates of pay in accordance with the principles of the Fair Wages Resolution of the House of Commons of 10th March, 1909, which provides for the payment of rates of wages not less favourable than those payable in the district by good employers for comparable labour. New entry unskilled workers receive the authorised rate, as fixed on this basis, in issue at the particular establishment at which they are employed. I regret that detailed figures could only be obtained by means of a disproportionate expenditure of time and labour.With regard to the third part of the question, where there is a trade union rate recognised and paid by good employers this would be accepted as a fair wage, but where there is no such rate the general standard of wages ruling in the district is the basis upon which the rates are fixed. Under the Personal Injuries (Emergency Provisions) Act, the Minister of Pensions has made a scheme providing for the payment of temporary allowances and pensions to gainfully occupied members of the civilian population who may be injured, and to the dependants of such persons who may be killed by war like operations in the United Kingdom in time of war.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether any arrangements have been, or are being, made, through Scottish local authorities, to enable unemployed or low-paid persons to visit their children who have been evacuated?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport to similar questions addressed to him on this subject yesterday, and also to the answer given to-day by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health in reply to a question by the hon. Member for South Shields (Mr. Ede).

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of the serious shortage of houses in many parts of Scotland, he will reconsider the terms of the recent circular instructing local authorities to discontinue the building of working-class houses; and whether he has considered the effect this instruction will have on employment in the building industries?

In rely to the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Shettleston (Mr. McGovern) on Tuesday, 26th September. The answer to the second part is in the affirmative. The circular was issued in view of the need for concentrating the resources of local authorities and of the building industry on essential work of National Defence.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what specific regulations he has laid down in connection with the holding of football matches in Scotland during the present emergency, and how do such regulations compare with those presently prevailing in England?

I am sending the hon. Member a statement which sets out the decisions of the Government in regard to arrangements for football matches. These arrangements are the same for Scotland as for England.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that no adequate arrangements exist in Scotland for the testing of civilian respirators; and if he is prepared to instruct forthwith that all areas shall have a room where respirators can be tested at least twice yearly in an atmosphere of tear-gas whereby leaks, if any, may be ascertained and corrected?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on the 27th September to a question by the hon. Member for Stoke (Mr. E. Smith) regarding the examination of respirators which have been distributed to the public. If the hon. Member has any information showing that this periodical inspection of respirators is not being carried out in any district, I shall be glad to make inquiry. I do not think that there are sufficient grounds at present for any such further special action as is suggested in the second part of the question.

asked the Home Secretary whether he will give an assurance that neither registration for military service nor service at home, but only active service overseas, shall be held to be a qualifying factor towards nationalisation for an alien refugee who has been granted temporary sanctuary in this country?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for North Lanark (Mr. Anstruther-Gray) on the 3rd October. In considering what weight should be given to any service rendered by an alien during the war, account must clearly be taken of the nature of his service.

asked the Home Secretary whether he will give the names of the legal gentlemen appointed to the various tribunals recently constituted for the examination of aliens?

The following is the list of persons who have been so appointed:

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will assure the House that British film production will be allowed to continue unhampered, in view of the presence here now of some of the best artistes, and in view of the perfection to which film production here has reached and which any lapse now may lose?

I am fully alive to the importance of maintaining the production of British films but I fear it is beyond my power to guarantee that the circumstances of war will not affect the industry.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any decision has been reached regarding the suspension of the Cinematograph Films Act; and whether he has considered the effect of the present state of uncertainty on British film production?

I am not yet in a position to add to the answer I gave on 28th September to my hon. Friend the Member for Tonbridge (Sir A. Baillie).

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that since the outbreak of war vegetable drugs, essential oils and medicinal chemicals have doubled and even trebled in price, and that certain of these are being withheld altogether from the market; and whether, in view of war and civilian requirements, he proposes to control essential supplies of these vital commodities?

I find that there have been substantial increases in the price of a number of goods of this class. Inquiries are being actively pursued and discussions have been arranged with representatives of the Wholesale and Retail Drug Trades. I am not in a position to make any further statement at the moment.