asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the complaints being made by unemployed persons that persons following their ordinary occupations are employed in the Observer Corps at 1s. 3d. per hour, thereby drawing two incomes at the same time; and will he take steps to remedy this state of affairs?

The members of the Observer Corps are men who gave up part of their spare time in peace in order to fit themselves for the important part they are now called upon to play in the defence of this country against air attack. The 1s. 3d. per hour to which the hon. Member refers is a payment made to part-time members of the Corps to meet out-of-pocket expenses. The substitution of inexperienced personnel for the trained personnel now in the Corps would not be advisable.

asked the Secretary of State for Air what are the existing rates of pay for all skilled and unskilled labour, male and female, juvenile and adult, respectively, for civilian employés engaged at the Royal Air Force Depot, Milton; what allowances are paid; how far are workers insured; whether there are any superannuation funds for the benefit of these employés; and to what extent will the permanent civilian staff, who have been

Rates of pay for a week of 48 hours.
Class of Labour.				Male.	Female.	Juvenile.
Skilled	…	…	…	*From 70s. to 79s. according to trade.	26s. to 30s.	10 per cent. below the adult rate for each year of age below 21.
†Unskilled	…	…	…	50s.	None	do.
Trade lads 14 to 20 years of age (learning trades).				—	—	11s. 6d. to 31s. 6d. (according to age).
* Some receive merit pay awards of varying weekly amounts within a maximum of 7s. per man.
† Certain labourers employed on semi-skilled duties are paid additions of from 1s. to 5s. a week according to the degree of skill involved.

No allowances are paid in addition to these rates.Industrial employés are insured for health and unemployment in accordance with statutory requirements. There is no superannuation scheme for these employés apart from the National Contributory Pensions Scheme, but all those who have completed 15 years satisfactory service are entitled to a retiring gratuity-equivalent to one week's pay for each completed year of service.In accordance with normal practice these employés are engaged on a weekly basis: the question of their continued employment after the conclusion of hostilities can only be considered then in the light of circumstances obtaining.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he is aware of disputes among Indian seamen on the steamship "Barrister" and the steamship "Oxfordshire"; on what terms the dispute in the steamship "Barrister" was settled and whether any action is being taken respecting the dispute in the steamship "Oxfordshire"; and whether he will take the initiative in securing an improvement in the conditions of work, hours of labour, pay and war risks bonus for all Indian seamen in British ships?

The rates of pay received by the employes referred to are as follow:

I am informed that the dispute with the Lascar crew of the "Barrister" has been settled by the grant of an increase in wages. The crew of the "Oxfordshire" have made other additional demands which the owners are, I understand, not prepared to concede in full.Lascars are employed on special agreements made as directed by the Government of India under the provisions of Section 125 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894. This Section gives to that Government and not to His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom power to impose conditions in connection with the employment of Lascars.

asked the Minister of Shipping what representations he has received concerning the Plimsoll line on British ships?

Some suggestions have been made as to the possibility of relaxing certain existing rules, but they would require very close examination if they were to be pursued.

asked the Home Secretary whether the Government propose to inaugurate any scheme to insure workers against air risks, including lost time,. on the basis of a small weekly premium from the State, employers and employed?

A scheme made by the Minister of Pensions under the Personal Injuries (Emergency Provisions) Act, 1939, provides for payments by the Exchequer in respect of war injuries sustained by persons gainfully occupied. I understand that a number of industries have already made arrangements as to the payments to be made when time is lost on account of air-raid warnings, and it is not proposed to introduce by legislation a contributory insurance scheme for this purpose.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is considering the removal of the ban on private views of art exhibitions; and when will he be in a position to make a statement?

I am not aware of any such ban. The Public Entertainments Order applies only to exhibitions to which persons are admitted on payment and even under that Order a very wide latitude is allowed.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now able to reply to the representations which have been made regarding the lighting of public service vehicles, the use of fog lights in foggy weather, and the interpretation of the regulations in relation to the lighting of tramcars and rear lights on tramcars?

I have carefully considered the representations which have been made on the various points to which my hon. Friend refers. As regards the lighting of public service vehicles, I am advised that if operators of public service vehicles take advantage of the standards permitted both for headlights and for interior lighting, no difficulty should arise, but I am arranging to permit the use of fog lights in foggy weather. As regards the lighting of tramcars, I am informed that a satisfactory method has now been devised and I propose to arrange for details of this device to be communicated to public service operators.

asked the Home Secretary whether any decision has yet been arrived at respecting the use as an air-raid shelter of the disused tube railway, tunnel in North Southwark?

This project has been carefully examined by my advisers in consultation with the borough officials. I have now arranged for a report of that examination to be put before the council, and I shall invite them to give me their considered views on the question whether, in the light of that report, it is desirable to pursue this project any further.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the gum-boots issued to air-raid precautions workers are being kept entirely for use in connection with gas attacks; that these boots are so made that they are likely to last for years even if used fairly frequently; and will he therefore authorise the use of these gum-boots by air-raid precautions workers in times of bad weather, and not have them kept exclusively for use during gas attacks?

It is important to conserve supplies of equipment and I should hesitate to accept the suggestion made in the second part of the question. At this stage I do not think it would be wise to authorise the use of gum-boots except for the purpose for which they have been issued.

asked the Home Secretary whether he has any figures to show the extent to which unemployed men have been given paid air-raid precautions work; and if, where such work is available, he will recommend to local authorities that preference should be given to them?

No such figures are available. As whole-time service involves being on duty, or at call, at any time of the day and for such hours as circumstances may require, it could not ordinarily be undertaken by persons already in paid employment. I should not feel justified in making any recommendation to local authorities which would fetter their discretion to select for whole-time service only those persons who are best qualified to undertake these duties.

asked the Home Secretary whether he will consider the introduction of legislation to abolish night-baking in Scotland in view of the black-out and the additional difficulties thereby imposed upon the workers in the industry?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Wednesbury (Mr. Banfield) on 20th September.

asked the Home Secretary whether he can state the number of petrol-pumps belonging to private traders that have been requisitioned for air-raid precautions purposes; the conditions on which they have been taken over; and, where such pumps are now standing idle, what compensation will be paid to the owners?

Clerks of local authorities have been asked to forward for confirmation particulars of all cases in which, under delegated powers, they have taken possession of land or premises for Civil Defence purposes. I am unable to say in how many cases premises requisitioned included petrol pumps. The compensation payable will be in accordance with the terms of the Compensation (Defence) Act.

asked the Home Secretary what order has been issued to local authorities instructing them to call in equipment from air-raid wardens; what areas are affected; and will he inform the House of the reason for the instruction so issued?

My Department has not issued any instructions to local authorities asking them to call in equipment issued to air-raid wardens.

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to demands made by some householders on the parents of evacuated children, for the payment of a weekly sum equal to the amount already paid from public funds for billeting; and if he will issue a warning that this cannot be condoned?

My attention has been drawn to a few cases of the kind to which the hon. Member refers and I have communicated with the responsible local authority: if the hon. Member will give me particulars of any case he has in mind I shall be glad to have the matter looked into.

asked the Home Secretary (1) whether it is possible to provide other accommodation than the cells of His Majesty's prisons for suspected enemy aliens who are awaiting examination by the tribunals;(2) how many suspected enemy aliens are held in custody in His Majesty's prisons; how many of them are women, and how many were formerly domestic servants who voluntarily remained in Great Britain; and by what date at the present rate of progress will their cases be decided by the tribunals?

The men who have been interned as enemy aliens are detained in internment camps and not in prisons, except that some of them are lodged in a prison for a few days after their arrest when arrangements cannot be made to take them direct to an internment camp. For the women who have been interned as enemy aliens no special establishment has been provided, and they are being detained in Holloway Prison. The women at present so detained number 96, of whom 44 were domestic servants who did not return to Germany before the outbreak of war. The local tribunals are reviewing the cases of Germans and Austrians who are at large, not the cases of those who have already been interned. Among those who have been interned there are a number of cases which I have referred to the Advisory Committee, and I understand that the Advisory Committee expect to complete their examination of the cases which have already been referred to them by the end of November; but no doubt there will be other cases referred to the committee. The committee is a standing committee for examining such cases as may be referred to it from time to time.

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the assurance given in the announcement of the constitution of the aliens tribunals that special consideration should be given by these tribunals to the cases of British women who, by marriage to men of enemy countries, have acquired the nationality of their husbands, he will consider that in the public interest there should be added to the existing appointments some experienced practising women barristers?

I called the special attention of the tribunals to the position of British born women who have acquired German nationality by marriage, and I have no doubt that in reviewing the cases of Germans and Austrians the tribunals will take due account of the special position of these women. It is not proposed to set up separate tribunals to consider such cases.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the hiring charges for motor-lorries taken by the War Office and local authorities are so high that firms whose motor-lorries have been taken are making net profits greatly in excess of their pre-war net profits; that notwithstanding this fact the trade in question is striving to induce the Ministry to grant an increase of charges with retrospective effect; and whether he will take immediate steps to have an investigation by independent experts into the amount of such hiring charges and the net profit thereby made by the owners of such motor-lorries?

The determination of the hiring rates for vehicles rests not with the Ministry of Transport, but with the hiring Department or local authority. Hiring charges for requisitioned vehicles fall to be determined in accordance with the provisions of the Compensation (Defence) Act, 1939, while the rates payable for vehicles hired under contract are for settlement by agreement between the contracting parties. It is for the hiring department or local authority to take such steps as they may deem necessary in cases where it is considered that the charges made by the owners of motor lorries are excessive.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that owing to the increase in the rural population arising from evacuation, the number of service men travelling at present and the reduction in the number of omnibuses, the existing rural omnibus service is inade- quate; and what steps he is taking to improve these services in the rural areas?

The rationing of fuel has necessitated certain restrictions in omnibus services, but I am not aware that services in rural areas generally are inadequate for the needs of the population. If the hon. Member has any particular case in mind and will send me details, I will certainly look into it.

asked the Minister of Labour how many instructors at the Ministry of Labour training centres with periods of service varying from 12 months to 12 years have been discharged since the 3rd September; what steps were taken to find alternative employment for these instructors in view of their special qualifications for handling young men; and whether he will instruct his Department to have regard to the appeal to employers by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and of the Lord Privy Seal not to discharge men merely because they are temporarily redundant?

As a result of the recall to the Colours on the outbreak of war of all soldiers training under the Army Vocational Training Scheme and the closing down of certain other courses of training not considered necessary in war time, 75 instructors at Government Training Centres with more than 12 months service became definitely redundant. There was no alternative employment available for them in my Department, but arrangements were made to give them all possible assistance in finding other employment. I am making a personal inquiry into the results in each case.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the stoppage of the football competitions has resulted in a great deal of unemployment, especially in the printing industry; and will he now remove any restrictions that prevent the continuation of these competitions?

I have been asked to reply. In view of the strain which would have been imposed on the Post Office under present conditions by the resumption of football pools run on pre-war lines, the Football Pool Promoters' Association agreed, at my request, to suspend their activities, but they have now submitted a modified scheme designed to reduce the burden placed on the Post Office. This scheme is under examination.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Ronald Evetts, aged 22 years, of 6, Highfield Terrace, Audenshaw, who is in receipt of unemployment assistance allowance, has been refused available employment at the Rotunda Mills and at the Texas Mills, Ashton-under-Lyne, because of the possibility of his being called up shortly for military service; whether representations are made to firms who take this attitude; and whether, in such cases, any special efforts are made by his Department to find employment?

I am making inquiries into this case and will communicate with the hon. Member.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the case of a young man of dual nationality who appeared on the 5th October before the West London County Court as a conscientious objector; and whether he will give an assurance that he will not be allowed to opt for British citizenship on attaining the age of 21?

Presumably my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind the provisions of the law which enable a British subject in certain circumstances to divest himself of British nationality by making a declaration of alienage when he attains the age of 21. There is no power, however, to compel a British subject to make such a declaration.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has given further consideration to the case of dental and medical students who are covered by the Schedule of Reserved Occupations and who, on being in the classes called up under the National Service (Armed Forces) Act, 1939, apply to be placed on the conscientious objectors register and for special reason desire postponement of consideration of their application; and whether he will exercise his discretion under Article 13 (1) of the National Service (Armed Forces) Miscellaneous Regulations, 1939?

It is proposed to exercise the power given by Regulation 13 (1) of the National Service (Armed Forces) (Miscellaneous) Regulations so as to allow any person who has provisionally registered as a conscientious objector and is covered by the Schedule of Reserved Occupations to postpone his application to the local tribunal under Section 5 (3) of the Act as long as he remains so covered. Dental, medical and pharmacy students who have reached a certain stage in their courses of study fall into this category.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will state his policy regarding the calling-up of university students for service; whether, and under what limitations as to period and faculty, extensions of time will be given to enable students otherwise liable for service to finish their course; and whether cases where special hardship to the student or loss to his intended profession would be caused by interruption of his course, will be considered for special extension?

I would refer the hon. Member to the replies I gave to the hon. Member for Ormskirk (Sir T. Rosbotham) on 28th September and to the hon. Member for Wolverhampton, East (Mr. Mander) on 4th October, copies of which I am sending her.

asked the Minister of Labour why the revised exemption list of 1st October brought in for the first time, for military service, trainees in the colleges which are producing technicians and teachers; and whether he will consider the greater advantage to the State in allowing these young men a period of exemption to enable them to complete substantially their studies?

I presume that the hon. Member refers to the cancellation of the general postponement of training, which was granted to full-time students under the Military Training Act. Under the National Service (Armed Forces) Act individual students can apply for postponement of their liability to be called up for service, on grounds of exceptional hardship. Students possessing certain technical and scientific qualifications will also have the opportunity of applying to the technical committees associated with the university joint recruiting boards which can in suitable cases recommend that they should complete their courses of study.

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether all the schools in the country which have been commandeered by the Government are in actual use; and whether he will consider the possibility of releasing as many of these institutions as soon as possible for the educational purposes for which they were intended?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. While I have every sympathy with the object which my hon. Friend has at heart, I regret that it would not be prudent at this stage to attempt any general release of these premises.

asked the Postmaster-General what complaints he has received from Liverpool business men regarding the long delay experienced in the transmission of mails from Egypt to this country; and will he inquire into and, if necessary, take steps to avoid this delay of mail delivery that is seriously hampering trade and commerce between Egypt and this country?

No complaints from the business community in Liverpool have been brought to my notice; mails from Egypt are being delivered without delay on arrival in this country, but arrangements for the despatch of the mails are made by the Egyptian Post Office and the time of transmission depends upon the route and frequency of the available transport services.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will extend the same facilities and postal costs, for the sending of parcels to troops in other parts of the Empire, as he is proposing for troops in France?

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer which I gave to questions by the hon. Members for Bilston (Mr. Hannah), Doncaster (Mr. J. Morgan) and Linlithgow (Mr. Mathers) on 17th October, from which he will see that the reduced rates which I then announced apply to parcels for all British troops abroad, wherever they may be serving.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will state the position with regard to the charge for postage on parcels and duty on cigarettes for soldiers in France; and whether he is aware of complaints that these charges are too high?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answers I gave to the hon. Members for Doncaster (Mr. J. Morgan), Linlithgow (Mr. Mathers) and the Bilston Division of Wolverhampton (Mr. Hannah) on 17th October, when I announced substantial reductions in the charges on parcels sent to members of His Majesty's Forces serving overseas, which came into force on Wednesday last.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what ratings of the accountant branch are to be eligible for direct promotion to commissioned rank, the age limits, training to be given, rank to which they will be promoted, and the number from each branch of the accountant branch who are to be promoted each year?

As I announced on the 4th October, it has been decided, in principle, that promotion from the lower deck should be extended to the accountant branch. The problem is, however, of considerable complexity and the details of the scheme have not been completed.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how the minimum of 75 commissions per annum are to be allocated to the lower deck, giving the numbers of ratings to be commissioned early in their careers under the sub-lieutenant and similar schemes in the executive, accountant, and engine-room artificer branches, and Royal Marines, respectively; and the numbers to be promoted to lieutenant's rank by special selection from warrant officers of the executive, engineering, and accountant branches, and the Royal Marines, respectively?

As has been previously explained to the House, the Admiralty are pursuing the policy of promoting from the lower deck as many candidates as possible, who are suitable and qualified, in the executive or engine-room branches and in the Royal Marines. There is, therefore, no question of allocating the number of commissions to be granted in any of these branches. The details of promotion in the Accountant Branch are still under consideration.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether glucose purchased in America will be subject to control at English ports; and whether glucose contracted and paid for outside the British Isles will be permitted to be delivered to British firms without interference?

I have been asked to reply. Glucose imported into the United Kingdom is not subject to control other than that imposed by the relative Maximum Prices Orders. Importers have been informed that the provisions of the Orders are not applicable to glucose to which they take title in a foreign country, provided it is not resold in the United Kingdom.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (1) whether firms using glucose have been officially informed that no further raw material is to be liberated by the Government for the manufacture of glucose;(2) whether, in view of the lack of supplies of maize in bulk from the United States, he will consider obtaining these supplies from South Africa, and other parts of the Empire, with the object of preventing the highly important glucose industry from collapse;(3) whether he is aware that many glucose factories in this country will have to close down owing to the inability to obtain supplies of maize, which have been commandeered by the Government; and whether, in the circumstances, he will reconsider the official decision not to supply maize in future for the manufacture of glucose?

Firms manufacturing or using glucose have not been told that no further raw material will be issued for the manufacture of glucose. Special arrangements have, in fact, been made to supply maize to glucose factories within the past few days.The quantity of maize arriving during recent weeks has been below normal and purchases have been made in South Africa and elsewhere, substantial shipments being on the way. As supplies become available purchases will be continued from all possible sources.It is intended while the shortage lasts to allocate maize supplies to the most urgent needs, and I hope to be able to allocate to the glucose industry a substantial proportion of its requirements.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the rationing of sugar to manufacturing confectioners is expected seriously to curtail the supply and raise the price of the cheaper sweets to the public; and whether he can make any statement on the intentions of the Government in this respect?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative: increases of price are due not to rationing but to increased costs and taxation. As regards the second part of the question, I can assure the hon. Members that every endeavour will be made to meet, so far as practicable, the requirements of the confectionery trades.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he will make a statement on the Anglo-Argentine Agreement for the importation of beef and mutton from the Argentine to this country?

Agreement has been reached covering the shipment of 200,000 tons of frozen beef and lamb from the Argentine during the period 1st November, 1939, to 31st January, 1940.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he will consider the importance of encouraging the production of the cutter type of pig of a minimum weight of 140 lbs. deadweight, in view of its general use for fresh pig-meat, sausages, pork pies, etc., and the fact that the production of this type of pig, besides meeting the normal demand of a large section of the poorest class of the population, also provides for the increased supply of edible fats, including lard, as pigs of this size and type of eight months age and upwards can be finished on home-grown foods, while the ordinary porker-type of 4½months pig depend mainly on imported foodstuffs not easily available during war?

I am anxious to do everything practicable to encourage the production of the heavier type of pig, not only because pigs of this type can use a greater proportion of the more bulky home-grown foods and yield more edible offals, but also as a method of increasing the supply of pigs suitable for the production of bacon. In order to attain this object a uniform price per score lbs. has been fixed for all fat pigs up to 200 lbs. dead weight. In view of the greater costs of production of the light porker-type of pig it is believed that this will encourage pig producers, where possible, to feed their pigs to heavier weights.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that a large number of smaller firms are unable to obtain contracts for the supply of clothing for His Majesty's Army; and whether he will give instructions for this state of affairs to be altered so that his Department may have the benefit of competitive prices and thereby prevent the possible formation of a ring and ensure more speedy production?

Applications from firms who wish to be placed on the Ministry's lists of clothing contractors are considered on their merits, and a large number of smaller firms have received orders. Although, however, about 500 firms are at present employed in the pro- duction of uniform clothing ordered by the Ministry, as compared with six or seven firms employed in normal times, the productive capacity of the making-up trade at the disposal of the Ministry is greater than can be employed.As regards the second part of the question, my right hon. Friend is satisfied that there is already a sufficiently wide range of competition amongst tenderers to ensure competitive prices and preclude the formation of any ring.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the shortage of greatcoats among troops in the Hull district; and why a certain Hull firm, long experienced in executing municipal, police and territorial uniform contracts, and capable of supplying soldiers' greatcoats at short notice, has, on four occasions, had its applications for Army clothing work rejected by his Department?

The temporary shortage of greatcoats is due not to lack of making-up capacity but to the fact that until comparatively recently the cloth was not coming in at the required rate. The position has greatly improved during the last few weeks, and it is hoped that an adequate supply of greatcoats will be available next month.With regard to the second part of the question, my right hon. Friend is having inquiries made and will communicate with the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Supply whether his attention has been called to the large increase in the price of home-grown timber; whether he is satisfied that the increase is justifiable; and will he state the factors responsible for the increase?

My right hon. Friend is aware that there have been complaints about the scheduled maximum prices of home-grown timber, mainly related to mining timber. He is satisfied that the prices are reasonable and represent a fair return to producers under present conditions. In this connection I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Linlithgow (Mr. Mathers) on the 18th October.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that there is a shortage of flax for the linen trade in Northern Ireland and that thousands of workers may lose their employment or be placed on short time in the new year; and what steps he is taking to secure supplies of flax from Russia and the Baltic States?

The hon. Member may be assured that the position of flax is receiving due attention.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the difficulty being experienced by firms in the carpet trade in obtaining wool and jute, with results that may be detrimental to our export trade; and what action is he taking in the matter?

Instructions have been issued to the Controllers to make every effort to allocate supplies for the manufacture of goods for export. In the case of wool the adjustments which have now been made in the price of raw wool should make larger supplies of yarn available to carpet manufacturers. As regards jute, arrangements have been made under which carpet manufacturers are allowed, for the present, 75 per cent. of their total normal consumption, and it has not been necessary to refuse any applications for licences by spinners to spin carpet yarns.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information by whom the members of the Advisory Council were chosen; what the the functions of the Council; and how often the Council has met?

The members of the Advisory Council were, for the most part, chosen before the outbreak of war, being invited to serve by the Minister responsible at the time for the organisation of the Ministry of Information. Since the outbreak of war, three additional members have been invited to serve on the Council by my Noble Friend.With regard to the second part of the question, the functions of the Council are to make available to the Minister of Information expert and authoritative advice on any problem of the Ministry's work on which he may from time to time require guidance.With regard to the third part of the question, the Council has met six times.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information why he has approved a grant of a sum of money to the British Drama League for amateur theatricals; and whether, before this money is spent, he will see that opportunities for employment of professional actors and actresses are given by his Department and in other ways, in view of the heavy unemployment among these people?

No grant to the British Drama League has been made or approved by the Ministry. The Ministry, however, invited the director of the league to visit various regional head-qarters and to address a few local meetings called for the purpose of keeping the public cheerful, especially in the reception areas, by encouraging dramatic performances. The second part of the question does not therefore arise.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information what contribution is received from the British Council in respect of those officers of the council who have been appointed to salaried positions at the Ministry?

The British Council pay the salaries of all officers seconded from the service of the council to the Ministry of Information.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information whether he is aware that opinion in the United States of America is not adequately informed, through the medium of the American Press, about the British war effort and purpose because of an absence of information from this country; whether he is aware of the volume of German propaganda circulated through the same medium; and what steps is he taking to correct this unsatisfactory state of affairs?

I am aware that the demand in the United States of America for information regarding our war effort and purpose is still to a considerable extent unsatisfied. It is not the policy of the Ministry of Information to engage in what are called propaganda activities in the United States of America; but every effort is being made to give American correspondents the fullest possible opportunity of studying and assessing our war activities.For the presentation of the British case in the United States of America the Ministry rely principally upon straightforward information; and although my Noble Friend is no longer himself responsible for the supply of news from Government sources, it will be his constant endeavour to secure the largest possible measure of publicity in the United States of America for such news as may be released by the Departments concerned, and for other information concerning the British war effort.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information whether he is aware that the British Broadcasting Corporation, in their announcements about poultry, have advised poultry fanners that they should blood-test their stock and send to the Bristol University or to the Ministry of Agriculture's laboratory for the necessary tubes; and whether, in view of the other equally efficient institutions which exist for the purpose, he will request the British Broadcasting Corporation to give the names of all these institutions in cases where it is necessary for such advice to be given?

The announcement to which my hon. Friend refers emanated from the University of Bristol and was broadcast during the time set apart by the British Broadcasting Corporation each day for announcements of local or regional interest, and was, as the announcement made clear, for the benefit of poultry farmers in the West Region only. There was accordingly no question of overlooking the claims of institutions in other parts of the country, which undertake this kind of work. I may add that no reference was made in the announcement to the Ministry of Agriculture's laboratory.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information who was responsible for putting forward the names of the executive staff of his Department?

I would refer the hon. Lady to the reply I gave on 27th September to my hon. and learned Friend the Member for East Leicester (Mr. Lyons).

asked the Prime Minister whether he will arrange to have the further stages of the Criminal Justice Bill brought before the House in the near future?

I regret that I am not in a position to make a statement to-day but I hope to be able to do so next week.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the declared policy of His Majesty's Government to restrict aerial warfare to military objectives, he will consider approaching neutral powers, including the United States of America, with a view to their proposing, both to belligerents and non-belligerents, a code of aerial warfare, together with the means of reporting on its observation or violation?

No, Sir. His Majesty's Government have already clearly stated their policy in this matter and they do not consider that further action on their part would contribute towards ensuring a stricter observance of the rules. This is particularly so when the extreme difficulties of reporting on the observance or violation of the rules are borne in mind.

asked the right hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, whether he will introduce legislation to secure that a percentage of all receipts from the cutting of timber on private woodlands during the war shall be paid into a fund, set up by the Forestry Commission, to assist the owners or the Commission to reafforest after the war?

The matter referred to by the hon. Member is having consideration but no decision has been reached.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether special arrangements will be made for those who lost legs in the last war, and who are now doing work of national importance, to receive the necessary petrol allotment to go to work in a motor-invalid carriage?

Yes, Sir. Special arrangements such as are suggested already exist.

asked the Secretary for Mines how many tons of coal he estimates will be saved by the domestic fuel rationing regulations?

After allowing for the exemption from rationing and for the granting of additional allowances in suitable cases, it is estimated that the application of the present rationing percentage will effect a saving of about seven million tons.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will give the number of oil-from-coal plants of all processes now in production in this country and the estimated annual production from these plants?

As regards the first part of the question I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on the 4th August to the hon. Member for Leigh (Mr. Tinker). The yield of refined motor spirit from coal in 1938 was 1.3 million gallons by low temperature carbonisation, 42.3 million gallons by hydrogenation, and 54.7 million gallons at coke ovens, gas works and tar distilleries.

asked the Minister of Health with regard to his circular suspending the demolition of slum property, whether it is his intention that slum houses which are empty shall be left standing; whether he is aware that such properties, left unattended, are extremely dangerous; and whether, in view of this, he will take steps to secure that they should be properly boarded up and supported?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Such houses, although unfit for human habitation, might, in the event of a considerable destruction of housing accommodation owing to enemy action, be brought temporarily into use. As regards the remaining parts of the question I have already advised local authorities in response to inquiries to do everything possible to ensure that these houses are protected and, where necessary, disinfested. Where the houses are still in private ownership the matter would, of course, be one for the owners.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will take steps to ascertain whether attendances at child welfare clinics are being maintained, whether in evacuation, neutral, or reception areas; and whether every possible step is being taken to protect the health of young people in this country from the many dangers which the war emergency is likely to entail?

Welfare authorities generally are, I believe, doing their best to maintain these services, and my regional medical staff are asked to keep the position in different localities under review. It is desirable in present circumstances to keep down specific requests for information from the Ministry to local authorities as far as possible.As regards the second part of the question, it is my constant aim to take all possible steps towards achieving the object referred to.

asked the Minister of Health whether he can assure the House that the existing health services, which have already shown excellent results in the health of the new armies, will not in any way be curtailed on grounds of economy?

I can assure the hon. Member that, in weighing the needs of the nation in financial and other respects, the Government will attach? full importance to the adequate maintenance of the health services, which they recognise as a necessary part of the nation's requirement in war as well as in peace.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider giving definite guidance to all concerned as to the amount referred to in Circular 1877 as a suitable adjustment of public assistance committee and Unemployment Assistance Board allowances?

Public assistance authorities are well aware of the principles governing the adjustment of assistance so as to accord with changes in the applicant's family circumstances, and as at present advised, I do not see the need for special guidance in the matter to which the hon. Member refers.As regards unemployment assistance I would refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.

asked the Minister of Health what steps are being taken to expand the hospital accommodation in this country with a view to maintaining the health of the civilian population during hostilities; whether he is aware that the necessary preference given now to men in uniform may prevent treatment being given to civilians whose health may be in danger; and, seeing that many hospitals in this country even in peace times had long waiting lists, whether steps will be taken without delay to prevent a general deterioration of health resulting from the war?

The accommodation in existing hospitals in England and Wales has been increased by the introduction of 100,000 additional beds, together with the necessary equipment; and arrangements have been made to provide the medical and nursing staff required for these beds. Beds are at present available in the hospitals of this country for all civilians in need of in-patient treatment.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that considerable alarm is being expressed by the medical profession owing to the fact that the treatment of tuberculosis in the country is at a standstill; that cases of open tuberculosis have been sent home to act as sources of infection; that no provision is being made at many sanatoria for the outpatient treatment of summarily discharged cases; and whether he will take action to remedy this?

There is no question of the treatment of tuberculosis being at a standstill. Whilst it has been necessary for such tuberculosis institutions as were included in the emergency hospitals scheme to keep a certain number of beds available for casualties, any consumptive requiring institutional treatment ought to be receiving it. Letters are now being sent to a number of these institutions releasing them for the present from any obligation to keep even a percentage of beds available under the emergency scheme and these institutions will therefore be able to take in patients exactly as in normal times. Any discharged persons suffering from tuberculosis who would benefit by further treatment in an institution or who would act as sources of infection in their homes should at once be re-admitted.I may add, in reply to the third part of the question, that the care and attention of tuberculous persons living at home is not at any time a normal function of a sanatorium, except at a few special institutions, but is undertaken by the family medical attendant and the tuberculosis dispensary organisation acting in co-operation.

asked the Minister of Health whether it is intended under Circular A.S. 322 that the provision that no insured person shall transfer from one society to another comes into force at once or will it allow transfers up to 1st January, 1940?

A circular will be issued shortly to all approved societies indicating that no objection will be raised to the completion of transfers as at the 1st January, 1940, in cases where the transferor society had, before the 3rd September, 1939, given formal consent to the transfer, and the insured person and both societies concerned desire that the transfer should take effect.

asked the Minister of Health when and why the Departmental circular was sent to insurance committees suggesting that only two-thirds of the sums due to insurance practitioners for last quarter should be distributed?

The circular was sent out on the 13th September. At the outbreak of war the departure of insurance practitioners on war service was in some cases not notified by them to insurance committees for a considerable time. The circular, therefore, recommended that where the position was not clear insurance committees should make payments on account representing the first two months only of the quarter, the balance being paid at the end of the present quarter or at such earlier date as might be convenient.

asked the Minister of Agriculture what plans he has which will lead to further allotment development in the North-East of Cheshire to increase the supply of fresh vegetables in war-time?

Powers to enter on and take possession of land suitable for allotment cultivation have been delegated to all borough and urban district councils under the Cultivation of Lands (Allotments) Order, 1939, and every such council has received a letter from my Department urging the council to exercise their powers to the fullest possible extent. These powers are of course additional to those vested in local authorities under the Allotments Acts.

asked the Minister of Agriculture what discretion is left to regional war agricultural committees to decide what crops shall be sown when Government grants are made to farmers for ploughing?

A wide discretion is left to county war agricultural executive committees in recommending what crops should be grown on land ploughed up with the aid of the Government grant, and this has been further extended in a circular letter which was issued on 21st October last. I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he can state the minimum rates of wages for male agricultural workers in each of the districts at the present time; and the comparative figures on 1st September, 1939?

As the reply consists of a lengthy table of figures I am sending the information to the hon. Member.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury how many borrowers have defaulted under the Agricultural Credits Act; what was the rate of interest charged; how many farms have been seized by the Public Works Loan Commissioners; what profit or losses have been made by the Commissioners in their operations of these properties; and the profits or losses made upon the realisation of such properties?

It would involve much labour to give the number of borrowers under the Agricultural Credits Act who have at any time been in default, and the information would not in my view serve any useful purpose since in many cases the default has merely amounted in practice to delay in payment.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether, in view of the hardship which exists in the fishing ports in consequence of steam trawlers being requisitioned for war service, he will make the necessary exchange available for the purchase of foreign-owned trawlers; and whether, in order to allay the misgivings of sellers in neutral countries, he will give an undertaking on behalf of His Majesty's Government that any trawlers so purchased will not be used for war purposes?

I have been asked to reply. The whole question of the buying of foreign trawlers is to be considered by an Advisory Committee which it has been decided to set up in connection with the producing side of the fishing industry. The first meeting of the committee is due to be held on Thursday next. With regard to the last part of my hon. Friend's question, my right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty has already given an undertaking of the character referred to.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Bolton district of the British Legion is calling the attention of Members of Parliament for that area to the inadequacy of family allowances, in certain cases, of men who have joined His Majesty's Forces, which, in the case of a family of more than three children, is lower than the rate allowed by public assistance committees; and will he consider whether anything can be done in this connection?

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he is aware of the hardship occasioned by the poverty of the present payments made to wives and children of men serving in His Majesty's Forces, which are less than unemployment assistance rates and those being paid for evacuees; and if he is prepared to take steps to relieve the hardship to these women and children by increasing materially these payments?

I have been asked to reply. I would refer the hon. Members to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to the right hon. Member for Limehouse (Mr. Attlee) on 18th October.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether family allowances are payable irrespective of the age of the soldier; and whether he is aware that in the case of a soldier aged 19, granted permission by his commanding officer to get married and given special leave for the purpose, the wife's allowance has been refused until the man attains the age of 20, in March, 1940?

Family allowances are payable irrespective of the age of the soldier. There would be no authority for such a refusal as is referred to. If the hon. Member will let me have the name, unit and Army number of the soldier to whom he refers, I will have inquiries made.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the distress prevailing amongst serving soldiers' wives and dependants due to the time between entry into the services and their payments coming through; and, further, to relieve this distress, will he state to whom wives and dependants should make application for payment until the service payments are made?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that many workers in the Black Country, especially those who have been encouraged to buy their homes on an instalment basis, are suffering great hardship from the delay in payment of military allowances which are too small to maintain wives and children in comfort; and will he take steps to remedy this?

Arrangements have been made to pay family allowances on a prima facie claim of entitlement, and it is hoped, in the case of dependants' allowance, to introduce a method substantially reducing the time of determination.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether all officers have received their full family allowances since embodiment; and, if not, what percentage of claims are outstanding?

A special census is being carried out at home and in France in order to identify any officer who is not in receipt of allowances due to him, and even though the documents required to establish entitlement to family allowance may be incomplete, in any case where there is an a priori claim by an officer in France, a provisional payment will be made.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether in order to avoid delay in the payment of separation and dependant's allowances to men joining the forces in the future, he will arrange for commanding officers to sanction payment by the paymasters for a temporary period, pending the production of evidence to ensure regular payments?

It has been arranged that family allowance will be issued so soon as a claim showing prima facie evidence of entitlement is received by the paymaster from the unit. Dependants' allowance, which is conditional upon certain information not available to the officer commanding, cannot be dealt with in this way, but it is hoped to introduce a method which will substantially reduce the time of determination.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the regimental paymaster of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps at Portsmouth, demanded of the wife of Private J. H. Williams, when she was applying for family allowances, that she should produce full birth certificates for her six children; that the cost of these certificates was 21s. 6d., which Mrs. Williams was unable to afford; and will he, in future, dispense with this costly method in the case of dependants of serving men, of age and birth certificates when they are seeking family allowances?

Arrangements have been made whereby, if marriage and birth certificates are not in possession of an applicant for family allowance, alternative evidence may be accepted, or the particulars otherwise verified, without expense to the soldier. The case mentioned, of which I am unaware, appears to be one of hardship, and, if the hon. Member will send me full particulars, including the soldier's Army number, I will inquire into it.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is satisfied that, where contracts have been completed for hutments and other buildings for the accommodation of troops, the work has been satisfactorily carried out; what complaints the War Office has received from any of the Commands to the effect that the work has been badly done and does not provide adequate or proper accommodation for the troops; and what steps does he propose to take, in such cases, to recover from the contractor money sufficient to put the buildings in a proper state?

No complaints of bad workmanship have, as yet, been received from any Command. Naturally, should any complaint of such a character be made at any time, it will be immediately investigated with a view to having the defect made good either by the contractor or at his expense.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that there is considerable discontent among serving soldiers at the long delays to letters and parcels sent to them abroad; and whether steps can be taken to improve these services?

My hon. Friend the Assistant Postmaster-General has now made a report following the investigation which he kindly undertook at my request, both in this country and in France, and has found that parcels and letters, with the exception of those insufficiently addressed, are now proceeding from this country with regularity and despatch.

asked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements have been made for members of the British Expeditionary Force to send parcels home; and what is the rate of postage?

Parcels can be sent by means of the Army Postal Service and at the reduced rates of postage specified by my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General in answer to questions on Tuesday last.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will take steps to ensure that no local or regimental order shall limit the number of letters written by soldiers of the British Expeditionary Force?

This has already been done.

asked the Secretary of State for War what relation the British Broadcasting Corporation has to the Entertainments National Service Association?

There is no special relationship.

asked the Secretary of State for War what remuneration is paid to the chairmen of the various sub-committees of the Entertainments National Service Association?

All payments are made from Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes funds. I am given to understand that no salaries are paid to the chairmen of these sub-committees as such.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, during the present war, up to date, the provisions of Section 143 of the Army Act have been invariably enforced; and whether, in certain cases, it has been found possible to make ex gratia payments to statutory undertakings in respect of embarkation or disembarkation of troops?

I have no information as to any departure from the provisions of Section 143 of the Army Act, or as to any ex gratia payments. It is not the practice to make such payments.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that in many areas soldiers are being vaccinated and inoculated without any regard being paid to their objections to these operations, he will direct the posting throughout the Army commands of a notice informing the men that inoculation and vaccination are voluntary?

Definite instructions have already been issued to all commands to the effect that inoculation and vaccination are on a purely voluntary basis.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his officials, in requisitioning vehicles, will abstain from taking the single van owned by a small firm instead of drawing on the vehicles of firms which possess a number of the same kind?

Now that the pressure is lessened, orders have been issued that such single vehicles are not to be taken.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that fully-trained masseuses are being employed at the War Department hospital at Millbank on terms of 2s. 4d. a day with quarters and food rations supplied uncooked; and whether he will take steps to have their remuneration increased?

I am informed that the three masseuses at present employed at the Queen Alexandra Military Hospital, Millbank, receive an average wage of over £3 10s. a week.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it is the policy of his Department to release serving soldiers from clerical and allied duties at the War Office wherever possible; and whether he will, in order to assist in reducing civilian unemployment, ensure that wherever possible, clerical work in the War Office is performed by civilians?

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

asked the Secretary of State for War how many of the serving soldiers employed at the War Office on the 5th April last, who were being trained for active-service duties, are still serving at the War Office; and when it is anticipated that these will be released for the service for which they were then being trained?

All the serving soldiers employed at the War Office on 5th April last who were specifically allocated for active service duties on mobilisation have been released for those duties.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the staff organisations in his Department have drawn attention to the increasing employment of military personnel on purely clerical duties side by side with civilians; whether that, in some cases, they have actually displaced civilians; and whether, as the employment of military personnel is in many cases more expensive than the employment of civilian staffs, he will, in the interests of military efficiency and economy, and in order to assist in reducing unemployment, see that civilian clerks are employed in future on what is purely clerical work?

Large numbers of civilian clerks are engaged on the clerical work of the Army, both inside and outside the War Office, and the numbers have increased considerably since the outbreak of war. The question whether any particular post should be filled by a soldier or civilian is considered on its merits in each case.

asked the Secretary of State for War what complaints he has received from parents in Kelty, Fife, of young militiamen sent overseas with what they considered an inadequate period of training; and whether he is satisfied that seven weeks training is adequate for any branch of the Army?

The hon. Member drew my attention to certain cases. I am satisfied that no man is being sent to the Expeditionary Force unless he has received adequate training, the period of which varies according to the duties he is required to perform.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now in a position to make a statement with regard to using the services of ex-officers under the age of 55 in the training of the new Army units?

Nearly 3,000 officers have now been called up from the Army Officers' Emergency Reserve, in which ex-officers up to 60 years of age are enrolled, and further appointments are being made at the rate of about 100 a day. A number of these ex-officers are employed as instructors.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that, even with half-fare facilities, the cost of proceeding on leave is prohibitive to many militiamen; and whether, if he cannot see his way to granting free travelling facilities at regular intervals, he will institute a graduated scale under which those serving in the Army may obtain cheap tickets, running, say, from one-twelfth in the case of single-fare rates of £2 or over down to one-sixth where the single-fare rate is 10s. or under?

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has now given further consideration to the question of issuing free travelling vouchers to soldiers on weekend leave when these are stationed at distances from their homes, which make even half-fare rates prohibitive to them?

As I have previously stated, a free warrant will be given to those granted leave from France after certain periods of service there, and a free warrant will be given for leave prior to embarkation for overseas. Leave on other occasions will be at the soldier's own expense, and the usual concession will be available.

asked the Secretary of State for War what steps he proposes to take immediately to see that embarkation leave is given to soldiers who went overseas without being granted this leave; and whether he will give special consideration to those under 20 years of age who were sent overseas soon after their mobilisation, and whose parents expected them to remain in this country for a longer period of training than was given to them?

In accordance with the promise I gave last Tuesday, I have caused a letter to be sent to the Commander-in-Chief representing that those who did not get embarkation leave should be given leave first.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will state the number of young men under 20 years of age who have been sent overseas; and the average length of training given to these youths?

I regret that the information asked for is not available.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many boys of under 20 years of age are now serving overseas; and how many of these when under 19 years of age were withdrawn from the forces preparing to go overseas?

I regret that the information asked for is not available.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that high medical authority condemned the sending of immature youths into the battle front in the Great War, and that adult soldiers were greatly disturbed by the unnerving conduct of lads under 21 years of age, he will consider the advisability of retaining for home service all young soldiers until they have reached the age of manhood?

I would refer the hon. Member to the Debate which took place on 3rd September last and to the statement which I then made. No man is sent to serve with the Expeditionary Force unless he is medically fit.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will state the names, salaries, and previous occupations of persons engaged in the department of the chief postal censor at Liverpool?

There are some 1,300 persons at present employed in the postal censorship department in Liverpool. The Chief Postal Censor, his deputy and many of the senior officials had censorship experience during the last war. Previous occupations of the staff are very varied. The Service Departments and most of the commercial interests of the country are represented.Following is a list of gradings and salaries:

Grading.	Annual Salary.
Chief Postal Censor	Not yet fixed £

	£
Deputy Chief Censor	740
Censor	635
Assistant Censor (Male)	515
Assistant Censor (Female)	415
Deputy Assistant Censor (Male)	395
Deputy Assistant Censor (Female)	320
Postal Examiner (Male)	208
Postal Examiner (Female)	195
	(average)

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the advisability of amending King's Regulations so as to permit officers in charge of messing to purchase supplies for their regiments from local sources when the Navy, Army, and Air Force Institute are unable to supply?

I am advised that, in ordinary circumstances, the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes will always be able to supply if they are given reasonable notice of units requirements, and that there is no good reason to alter the system. In cases where the ordinary rationing arrangements were not at first available, units were given a special allowance and made their own arrangements.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any allowance is paid to militiamen who are compelled to wear their own civilian clothing pending the issue of Army clothing?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the temporary shortage of greatcoats for recruits, he will give instructions that all greatcoats available to a unit shall be pooled and issued to men going on guard duties, so that no man will be unnecessarily exposed to inclement weather?

Authority was given two months ago for civilian overcoats to be bought for men not in possession of service greatcoats. Every man should, therefore, have either a military greatcoat or a civilian overcoat.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that there are complaints of shortage of food among units billeted in schools and similar institutions in various parts of the country; and whether he will investigate these complaints with a view to remedying same?

The answer to the first part of the question is "No, Sir." I will, of course, investigate any specific complaints that are brought to notice.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that men serving in the Forces have in some cases made application for the appropriate forms to apply for special allowances and have been informed by their commanding officers that they have no knowledge of such forms; and will he take steps to secure that these forms are made available to the men?

I have no knowledge of such cases, but I have again taken steps to bring the procedure and the forms to the notice of all concerned.

asked the Secretary of State for War what is approximately the time taken between the submission of an application to the Military Service (Special Allowances) Advisory Committee and the announcement of a decision?

Examination of a recent batch of claims shows that it took two to three weeks in the normal type of case. Each case has to be investigated locally before the Committee make their recommendation.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction of dependants, arising from the operation of Army Order 170; that under its terms certain parents are penalised and widows are refused allowances for their sons; that final decisions are given by regimental paymasters without opportunity for appeal; and whether he proposes to take steps to revise the terms of the order and method of administering it?

So far as I am aware, the cases in which an allowance is refused are those in which the soldier was not making an appropriate net contribution to the dependant, before he was called up, or the income of the dependant's household exceeds certain limits, or the dependant is outside certain degrees of relationship, or (except in the case of, for example, a widowed mother) is capable of self support. In the last type of case, it is open to the Military Service (Special Allowances) Advisory Committee to recommend grants of an interim nature to persons who though not incapable of work are unable to find work.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether officers and men manning machine-gun units for antiaircraft defence, at home and in the field Army, receive training in the theory and practice of flight, or alternatively, a thorough training of an objective kind in low-flying airmanship?

Instruction, based on information supplied by the Air Ministry, is given regarding probable enemy tactics, and practical training is carried out at anti-aircraft camps and ranges at home and at ports abroad.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it is proposed to keep the National Defence Companies under canvas during the winter; whether he is aware that many of these soldiers are middle-aged or elderly men; and for how long it is proposed to keep them fully called up to the Colours?

It is not proposed to keep any portion of the National Defence Companies under canvas during the winter. The majority have already been accommodated in billets or requisitioned buildings. Where this is not feasible, hutting is being provided as fast as possible. The duty must, of course, continue to be performed during the war.

asked the Secretary of State for War what are the existing rates of pay for all skilled and unskilled labour, male and female, juvenile and adult, respectively, for civilian employés engaged at the Central Ordnance Depot, Didcot; what allowances are-paid; how far workers are insured; whether there are any superannuation funds for the benefit of these employés; and to what extent will the permanent civilian staff, who have been employed for over 18 months before 1st September, be guaranteed continuation of employment on the conclusion of hostilities subject to their work and conduct being satisfactory?

The existing authorised rates of wages for workpeople at the Central Ordnance Depot, Didcot, are as follow:

	Within the undermentioned range of rates according to duties
Male Employés.	A week.
Skilled Tradesmen.	70s. 0d. (standard mechanics' rate) to 80s. 0d.
Non-skilled grades.	50s. 0d. (minimum rate for unskilled labourers) to 62s. 6d.
Mess staff	38s. 0d. to 46s. 0d. plus food.
Juveniles	12s. 0d. (at 14) to 19s. 0d. (at 16½).
Female Employees.
Adults	28s. 0d. to 31s. 0d.
Juveniles	10s. 0d. to 13s. 0. (at 15) to 26s. 0d. (at 20).

No allowances are paid, except in the case of a few employés who are required to wear uniform, e.g. messengers, who receive a monthly allowance for upkeep.As regards insurance, the National Insurance (Health, Pensions and Unemployment) Acts apply. The Workmen's Compensation Acts, or the Government Scheme of Compensation framed under the Acts if the employé has opted there-for, provide for the payment of injury compensation.There are no officially recognised superannuation funds, but the employés are eligible to be considered for gratuity under the Superannuation Acts. These Acts lay down the conditions for awards of gratuities after certain periods of service.In regard to the last part of the question, it is not possible to give any guarantee of continued employment on the conclusion of hostilities, as the matter will necessarily depend upon the circumstances then obtaining.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the amount of money granted by the Government to the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association to assist dependants of members of His Majesty's Forces pending receipt of allowances and allotments; the names of the persons responsible for its administration; and whether the association will be permitted to recover advances from retrospective payment of Army separation allowances?

No public money has been placed at the disposal of the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association for the purpose indicated. Temporary help, in such circumstances, is obtainable under the Government scheme for the prevention and relief of distress arising out of the war, on application being made to the nearest office of the Ministry of Labour.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether it is the intention of his Department to offer employment, permanent or temporary, to any of the candidates who sat the first part of the customs and excise examinations which commenced on the 25th July, 1939, but the second part of which, due to begin in November, 1939, will not be completed?

I am afraid that it is not practicable to offer employment to any of the candidates at the open competition for appointment as Customs and Excise Officer which is not being proceeded with. The age limits for this competition were 19 to 21.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he can state the number of hotels which are subject to the assessment for monopoly value and the amount of revenue accruing from this source; the number of hotels which are not assessed for monopoly value; and the approximate amount of revenue which would accrue if all hotels were placed on the same basis of taxation?

I am afraid that the aggregate numbers of hotels which are, or have been, or have never been, subject to a monopoly value charge could not be given without inquiries which would entail an undue amount of labour. As regards the revenue from this source, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to Table 122 in the annual report of the Commissioners of Customs and Excise. It is not possible to estimate the revenue which would result if all hotels were made subject to a monopoly value charge.