asked the Minister of Health whether evacuated non-school parties can be transferred to holiday camps or other suitable premises where attempts can be made to meet the social and communal needs of the evacuees?

I assume that the hon. Member's question refers mainly to the priority group of mothers with young children. My right hon. Friend has suggested to local authorities that where billeting arrangements are not satisfactory the most suitable method may be to make use of empty houses as hostels. My right hon. Friend is also most anxious to develop communal activities amongst the evacuated mothers and is asking local authorities to consider further opportunities of developing such activities.

asked the Minister of Health what precise arrangement has been made by his Department and the British Medical Association with regard to the treatment of unaccompanied children in reception areas in view of the fact that a letter was sent from his Department to the Medical Practitioners' Union, dated 16th October, 1939, referring to the agreed terms with the association and another letter, also from his Department, on 27th October, stating that there was no formal agreement?

The arrangements provide that, as from the date on which the Government evacuation scheme took effect, sums calculated at the rate of 10s. a year for each unaccompanied child transferred under the scheme will be paid to the local emergency medical committees, and from the funds so constituted payments will be made to medical practitioners on such basis, whether capitation or attendance, as may be found convenient. The amount paid covers the cost of attendance and the provision of medicines. The Medical Practitioners' Union were informed to this effect on 5th October. As the arrangements were embodied in a letter from my Department which was accepted by the association, they were rightly referred to as "agreed terms" although the agreement was not formal.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that teachers are to be empowered to assess the ability of parents to contribute to the cost of billeting their evacuated children; and whether, in view of the close every-day connection of the teachers with both the parents and the children, he will state why this arrangement was made?

I am aware of certain cases in which local authorities are making use for this purpose of the services of teachers who, owing to the evacuation, are temporarily not required for their usual school duties.In directing local authorities to assist him in this matter my right hon. Friend has not thought it desirable to limit their discretion in the selection of officers to carry out the work.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that at Colwyn Bay householders who cater for visitors have been told that at some unspecified date civil servants will be billeted upon them; whether in such cases it is expected that the billets be kept vacant pending the arrival of the civil servants; and who will pay for this?

I am aware that a survey of the available accommodation has been made, but until such time as the billets are required, the householders are at liberty to take visitors.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in cases of death of evacuated persons, the Government will make some payment or allowance to the relatives in respect of the additional funeral expenses and travelling expenses necessitated by the circumstances?

Where the relatives of an evacuated person who has died in a receiving area are unable to meet the cost of the funeral, the local authority may arrange for and meet the cost of the burial in their area. In necessitous cases the fares of parents or husbands attending the funeral may be paid by the evacuating authority subject to recovery in appropriate cases. I am about to issue a circular to local authorities explaining these arrangements.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider dissolving the Central Medical War Committee, which does not enjoy the complete confidence of the medical profession, and appointing in its stead the smaller and efficient Joint Committee on Medical Questions of the Trades Union Congress, which includes amongst its members representatives of both the Medical Practitioners' Union and the British Medical Association?

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend does not think that the change which the hon. Member proposes would be justifiable.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of and has authorised the circular letter of the Central Emergency Committee that medical practices, both as regards private and National Health Insurance practice, can be adequately protected under the British Medical Association scheme, and in no other way; and whether he has approved the scheme and disapproves of any other scheme whether instituted by an insurance committee or otherwise?

Some of the documents issued by the Central Emergency Committee of the British Medical Association are sent to me for my information, but I do not know to what particular document the hon. Member is referring. I am, however, aware of the association's scheme for the protection of the practices of practitioners engaged on whole-time national service and have recommended insurance committees to assist in its operation so far as it relates to insurance practice. I have approved a number of substantially similar schemes submitted by insurance committees and panel committees jointly and am prepared to consider any other scheme submitted by such committees.

asked the Minister of Health the number of occasions that the Central Medical War Committee has met; and how many members were absent from each meeting?

Since its constitution on the outbreak of war, the full committee has met twice, and I am informed that 14 members were absent on the first occasion and nine on the second. In addition there has been three meetings of the executive committee and one meeting of a special sub-committee.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there is no representative on the Central Medical War Committee who is not either a member of, or directly or indirectly connected with, the British Medical Association, although there are other important medical organisations and, notably, the Medical Practitioners Union; and whether he will reconsider representations from this body on the matter?

A number of members of the Central Medical War Committee have been appointed without reference to any connection they may have with the British Medical Association, and I am informed that some of them are, in fact, not members of the association. I will, of course, consider representations from any quarter on this matter.

asked the Minister of Health how many qualified medical practitioners are on the medical register; and precisely how many practitioners have permitted their names to be included in the Central Medical Register without any conditions and qualifications whatsoever?

Of the 44,608 qualified medical practitioners on the medical register and resident in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, 43,650 are included in the register kept by the Central Medical War Committee. The offers of service recorded in the register are, in the case of a number of practitioners, subject to their commitments to His Majesty's Forcesorto local authorities or other bodies by which they are employed, and I am unable to give the figure asked for in the second part of the question.

asked the Minister of Health whether the 98 per cent. of the medical profession in the list of the Central Medical Register is limited to medical practitioners who have signed the British Medical Association scheme for the protection of the practices of doctors absent on war service; and, if so, how many practitioners have signed other schemes separately prepared by insurance committees?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, and the second part, therefore, does not arise.

asked the Home Secretary whether he will give further consideration to the possibility of helping trade by allowing, under proper conditions, a small suitably-darkened lamp in shop windows between sunset and the legal closing hour as an indication that the shop is open for business?

I propose to permit the use of a suitably illuminated sign for shop windows and doors. The details of the proposed relaxation are at present under discussion with representatives of the principal associations of shopkeepers, and I hope to be able to make an announcement shortly.

asked the Home Secretary whether he has considered the resolution of the Scottish Road Passenger Transport Association dealing with the lighting of motor vehicles sent him on 2lst October, 1939; and whether he has any statement to make thereon?

The points raised in the resolution from the Scottish Road Passenger Transport Association were discussed with a deputation representing the operators of public service vehicles and their employes which I received last week. I have undertaken to give consideration to the points raised by the deputation.

asked the Home Secretary what representations he has received from local authorities for the distribution of free air-raid shelters to all householders in vulnerable areas; and whether the matter is still under consideration?

The policy of the Government is that in the more exposed areas all householders within a certain income limit should be provided with shelter at their homes free of cost, and I have received no representations from local authorities which suggest that this is regarded by them as insufficient. I have also announced recently a scheme whereby householders in such areas who are not eligible for the free provision of shelter may, through their local authorities, obtain standard steel shelters by purchase. This scheme, which is now operative only in certain areas, will be progressively extended to other areas as supplies permit.

asked the Home Secretary whether he will introduce legislation to compel, subject to necessary safeguards, persons having control of the garden to grant other occupiers in the same dwelling the right to erect and have access to a garden shelter, or what alternative steps he proposes to take to enable the tenant of an upstairs' flat, who is eligible for the free issue of a Government steel shelter, to erect the shelter when the terms of his tenancy make no provision for the use of the garden attached to the dwelling?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on the 2nd November to a similar question by the hon. Member for Willesden, West (Mr. Viant).

asked the Home Secretary whether he will consider limiting the duration of the Order requiring shops to close at 6 p.m., so that it runs from, say, 30th October to 1st March?

As I have already stated, I propose to review the Order in the light of experience of its actual operation and when I do so I will certainly keep my hon. Friend's suggestion in mind.

asked the Home Secretary whether, since air-raid precautions workers not on service in the shift immediately affected will probably be called up by telephone, they are expected to await the all-clear signal or go to their posts at once; and whether they will be provided with steel helmets?

The arrangements for calling up A.R.P. personnel not on duty at the time a warning is given depend on local circumstances and organisation and also vary according to the particular service concerned, and it would not necessarily be the case that all workers not on shift would have to report for duty immediately. As regards the last part of the question all A.R.P. personnel with outdoor duties are provided with steel helmets.

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the fact that increased industrial activity tends to bring a more than proportional increase in industrial accidents, he will ensure that factory inspectorates are kept at least up to pre-war strength and that there shall be no slackening in the qualifications required of inspectors?

My right hon. Friend cannot guarantee the future position but there are now more inspectors than at the beginning of the war, there has been no slackening in the qualifications required of candidates, and my right hon. Friend can assure the hon. Member that he fully recognises the importance of maintaining an efficient inspectorate.

asked the Home Secretary what action was taken by the Government during the years 1914 to 1918 with regard to enemy aliens on the eastern seaboard of Scotland; and whether it is intended to follow or vary that action at the present time, in view of submarine and aerial activity by the enemy in that region?

Under the provisions of the Aliens Restriction Orders made during the years 1914–18, certain areas in the British Isles, including a number of areas in Scotland, were scheduled as prohibited areas and an enemy alien was not permitted to enter or reside or continue to reside either temporarily or permanently in such an area, unless provided with a permit issued for the purpose by the police. Under Article 9 of the Aliens Order, 1920, as amended at the outbreak of war, power is given to the Secretary of State on the recommendation of the Admiralty, Army Council or Air Council to impose similar restrictions. The position to-day is different from the position in the last war, because to-day the majority of Germans and Austrians are refugees from the regime against which this country is fighting, but the question whether in certain areas special restrictions should be imposed as regards the residence of aliens or certain classes of aliens is now being considered.

asked the Home Secretary what progress has been made with the investigation into the prevalence of silicosis among slate quarrymen and miners in North Wales; and whether any decision has yet been arrived at in reference to the scheduling of the industry under the Various Industries Silicosis Schemes?

This question is under discussion with the Joint Industrial Council, and I hope to be in a position to give a decision at an early date.

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the fact that the number of appeals in cases where rates cannot be paid owing to the householders being affected by the war is likely to be extremely large, he will circularise benches of magistrates with a view to making adequate arrangements with regard to attendances in courts, so that the public will not be unduly inconvenienced?

My hon. Friend no doubt has in mind the provisions of the Courts (Emergency Powers) Act, 1939, and the rules made thereunder, whereby persons summoned for non-payment of rates can be given an opportunity of showing cause why the discretion of the court should be exercised in their favour. I fully agree that it is important that proper arrangements shall be made by benches of magistrates for such applications to be heard and considered, but I have no doubt that these considerations will be present to the minds of magistrates and their clerks, and I do not think there is any need for me to issue a circular on the subject.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he has now reconstituted his central advisory committee; if so, whether he will give the names of the members who have been appointed by him; and the date when the committee is likely to meet?

Yes, Sir. I have, as I undertook to do, now reconstituted the membership of my Statutory Advisory Committee. Following is the personnel of the committee. The committee will hold its first meeting with me to-morrow.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether the Government will consider a revision of disablement benefits in view of the rise in the cost of living?

If, as I assume, this question relates to pensions for war disablement, I would refer the hon. Member to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on this subject in the course of his reply to a question on 12th October. Any revision of the kind contemplated would, of course, have to be based on the experience of a reasonable period.

asked the Minister of Pensions what compensation has been paid to the relatives of Serjeant Archie Mitchell of the 14th Brigade, Royal Artillery, who died on 9th September from anaphylactic shock produced by inoculation, and of Victor Smith, of Aston Road, Leeds, who died of vaccinal encephalitis from vaccination, whilst on Army service on 5th October?

No application for compensation has yet been received from Mrs. Mitchell, but the case has been under consideration by my Department and a form of application has already been sent to her last known address. On its return I will at once have further attention given to the question of her eligibility for pension under the Royal Warrant. I am making inquiries into the other case referred to by the hon. Member and I will write to him as soon as possible.

asked the Home Secretary how long Dr. Julius Laufer has been in custody; whether he has been allowed to see his solicitor; and whether he can give an early date for this man's trial?

This German subject was for security reasons placed in custody on the outbreak of war. I am informed that up to the present he has made no application to see his solicitor, but such an interview would be allowed if he made such a request. The case is one which I have decided to refer to the Advisory Committee, and it will be considered by that committee at an early date.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction which exists in the medical profession over the present method of recruitment of medical men for the Armed Forces; and whether, to avoid discontent, and to secure efficiency and economy, he will see that the respective Government Departments deal direct with applications?

I have been asked to reply. As regards the first part of the question I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 26th October. As regards the second part, it is considered that recruitment by direct application, as suggested in the question, would be less satisfactory to all concerned.

asked the Minister of Agriculture how many veterinarians are included among the members of the Poultry Industry Advisory Committee and what is their veterinary experience?

As questions of disease will not be referred to the committee for consideration, I did not consider it necessary to include any veterinary representative in the membership.

asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps he is taking to increase the keeping of pigs for their own consumption by farm-workers and other suitable persons?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Abingdon (Sir R. Glyn) on 26th October.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is bringing under expert examination the explanation given by wholesale dealers in electric torches and batteries for the steep rise in prices; whether British manufacturers are being brought within the scope of his inquiries; and whether he will ensure a fair rationing to retailers, large and small, of such supplies of batteries as are available?

The Board of Trade have no facilities for a detailed investigation of the wholesale trade in torches and batteries, but as I informed my hon. Friend in reply to his question of 31st October, the question of applying the Prices of Goods Bill to these goods will have to be considered when that Bill becomes law. I have been in communication with the chief British manufacturers. They had not increased their prices until yesterday when certain increases were made as a result, I am informed, of increased cost of materials. I understand that manufacturers are allocating available supplies as equitably as possibly to their regular wholesale and retail customers.

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the Ebbw Vale and Shotton steel plants will be in full operation; and how much credit assistance was provided by Treasury support to enable their construction to be completed?

I understand that the Ebbw Vale plant is complete and in extensive operation, but that the plant at Shotton will not be completed before the early months of next year. As regards finance, no money or credit has been found for these concerns by His Majesty's Government.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will state the present position of the German-owned firm, Messrs. Nico Manufacturing Company, Limited, Letchworth; and whether steps have been taken to prevent any control of, or payment to, the German nationals formerly associated with the business directly or indirectly?

The position of this company is under examination. In answer to the second part of the question, I would point out that Section 1 of the Trading with the Enemy Act, 1939, makes it an offence to have any commercial, financial or other intercourse or dealings with an enemy, and under the Trading with the Enemy (Custodian) Order any money due to an enemy is required to be paid to the Custodian of Enemy Property.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that Hull fruit brokers and merchants, with a long-standing commercial connection with Iceland and capable of meeting fresh orders from that country for oranges, lemons and onions, are prevented from doing so because they cannot obtain permission to export; and, in view of the fact that the cargoes would be carried by Iceland-owned ships, will he give immediate instructions for the granting of licences and thus encourage British export trade?

It is necessary to restrict exports of the commodities to which the hon. Member refers in view of home requirements; but licences are being issued as freely as circumstances allow for export to Iceland. The position is under constant review, and every opportunity will be taken to licence exports more freely.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will cause immediate inquiry to be made into the effects on British export trade that might result from a drastic cut in steel prices?

Steel prices are regulated by my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Supply, with due regard to all relevant considerations, including the export trade.

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he is aware that the Jugoslav Government is anxious to export bacon to this country and that if we do not buy it it will go to Germany; and whether he will take prompt steps to prevent this?

I understand that the Ministry of Food have made an offer for a certain quantity of Jugoslav bacon.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take steps to ensure that the Cinematograph Films Council will meet at the earliest opportunity to perform its statutory duties?

The chairman has recently consulted me on this matter and I have told him that I should welcome a meeting of the council.

asked the President of the Board of Trade where the Patent Office now has its headquarters?

There has been no recent change in the address of the Patent Office, which is 25, Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane, W.C.2.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information whether he will give the names, salaries and duties of members of his staff serving abroad, other than those transferred from His Majesty's diplomatic and consular offices?

The list of Press Attaches, Assistant Press Attaches and officers who perform similar functions, employed by the Ministry of Information in foreign countries is given below. Press Attaches are authorised to engage secretarial staff according to the needs of the post. As regards salaries, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him on nth October. The duties of these officers are to see that the British case is effectively presented in foreign countries by all available means and especially to maintain contact with the local Press; these duties they carry out under the general supervision of His Majesty's representatives abroad.In a number of other places His Majesty's representatives are assisted in a similar way by paid officers of a lower rank than those mentioned above, or by resident British subjects who give their services without remuneration.

asked the Minister of Labour what extra winter allowance will be made to the unemployed; and whether the extra allowance will be subject to the means test?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent (Mr. E. Smith) on 5th October.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will institute legislation to promote the employment of older women workers by offering inducements to employers to engage a fixed proportion of women over 30 years of age, according to the number of workers employed; and whether he will consider forming a roll of such employers on the lines of the King's Roll for disabled men?

No, Sir. I am afraid I do not regard the suggestions made by the hon. Member as practicable.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he has had a satisfactory reply to his appeal for scrap-iron and steel?

Yes, Sir. I am glad to say that the response to the appeal for iron and steel scrap, which has been addressed by the Iron and Steel Controller to local authorities, and to manufacturers in the London Postal Area, has exceeded expectations.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the difficulties which retail newsagents are experiencing in the distribution of newspapers because of the refusal of wholesale suppliers to accept unsold copies; and whether, since this militates against the adequate distribution of news about the national effort, he will take steps in connection with the matter?

As I stated in the reply to the hon. Member for Ilkeston (Mr. Oliver) on the 9th October, the detailed arrangements in the trade regarding the return of unsold newspapers are not matters in which I can intervene.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the hardship caused to newsagents by the imposition of the no-returns allowance policy of the Yorkshire Newspaper Society for evening newspapers and that the society has declined to meet the representatives of the newsagents to discuss that policy; and if he will endeavour to convene a meeting of the aggrieved parties to discuss this departure from trade custom?

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I have given to-day to the hon. Member for Rother Valley (Mr. Dunn).

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that the newspaper proprietors in the Yorkshire area have imposed considerable hardship and financial loss on the retailers and distributors of evening papers in that area; that the newspaper proprietors have refused to meet the duly appointed representatives of the Federation of Retail Newsagents; and will he take such steps as are necessary to secure joint discussion on this matter?

If the hon. Member is referring to the newspaper proprietors' refusal to accept unsold copies, I would refer him to the reply given to the hon. Member for Ilkeston (Mr. Oliver) on the 9th October, in which I stated that such detailed arrangements in the trade are not matters in which I can intervene.

asked the Minister of Supply what steps are being taken to ascertain the available supply of standing timber of the size and species required in this country and to procure and make use of the same?

A census of the woodlands of this country was in progress before the war, and the position with regard to quantities, species, and sizes of standing timber is known with reasonable accuracy. Steps are being taken to augment supplies of home-grown timber by purchase by the Timber Controller of prepared homegrown wood from the trade and by developing the production both of sawn timber and of pitwood in the woods of the Forestry Commission and in private woods.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that two out of the four brickworks in the Paignton area are standing idle, and that the yards are full of unsold bricks not required locally; and what action he proposes to take to ensure that such essential industrial resources are fully employed?

The demand for bricks has been unavoidably affected by the reduction of building, due in part to restricted supplies of timber. The possibility of alternative methods of construction in order to obviate this difficulty, and of using bricks in place of timber for certain purposes is under consideration.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he will state the precise functions of the iron and steel control of his Ministry; and whether he is aware that in reply to inquiries for raw material to fill orders for the export trade the Department replied that supplies to implement orders must be left in the hands of those accepting the orders?

The functions of the Iron and Steel Control are to exercise control over the industry in order that national requirements may be met, to deal with any difficulties arising, e.g., in regard to supply of raw materials, and to administer the Orders which I have made under the Defence Regulations in order to meet these objects.With regard to the latter part of my hon. Friend's question, he will appreciate that under the present Iron and Steel Control Order and Direction issued thereunder, purchases of iron and steel for the main essential national requirements are exempted from control by licence. In granting licences to consumers not covered by this exemption, the Controller has due regard to the supply position. It must be left to the individual supplier to fit in the actual execution of an order for which a licence has been granted to the programme of orders within the exempted categories. The general policy is to allow business to continue through normal channels, and district officers and liaison officers have been appointed for the purpose of assisting in cases where any undue delay in delivery occurs.

asked the Minister of Supply whether his attention has been called to the increasing number of inquiries from British Dominions, the Colonial Empire and neutral countries for iron, steel, non-ferrous metals and chemicals, and the difficulties with which manufacturers are faced in accepting orders from want of raw material; and whether an effort will be made to meet requirements as far as may be consistent with the needs of the armament programme?

I can assure my hon. Friend that the Government are fully seized of the importance of maintaining our export trade in the fullest possible volume, subject to Defence requirements. Supplies of raw materials should, in general, be available, though in certain directions a temporary shortage may occur. In cases where materials are controlled, I have already instructed controllers and their staffs to make every effort to allocate supplies where it appears to them that the supplies are required for the manufacture of goods for export.

asked the Minister of Supply whether, in view of the fact that Government contracts placed on a time and line basis proved wasteful in the last war owing to the contractor standing to benefit in proportion to the public money he spent, he will give an assurance that no Government orders have been placed for the erection of camps, depots, etc., on the basis of actual expenditure plus a percentage of profit thereon?

His Majesty's Government recognise generally the undesirability of placing building contracts on the prime cost plus percentage basis. Contracts for building camps and depots for the Service Departments are not placed by my Ministry, but there are isolated cases in which the Ministry is arranging the erection of factories, and, where it is necessary to place these on a prime cost basis, the contractors will not be remunerated by a percentage on the actual expenditure.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many agricultural committees have now been established in Scotland for the purpose of increased agricultural production?

The number is 40. Particulars of the committees were published in the Press a few days after the outbreak of war.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many schemes have been submitted to his Department by agricultural committees established by him in Scotland; and how many of these schemes have been accepted, and are now in operation?

The agricultural executive committees are not required to submit schemes to me. They are vested with powers to issue directions for the cultivation of land and my approval is not necessary except in certain specific cases. None of the committees has yet had occasion to seek such approval. From reports received it appears that the committees have made good progress in surveying the land in their respective areas and in negotiating with individual farmers for increased ploughing of land.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many recruits offered themselves for enlistment between the ages of 22 to 35 up to and including Saturday, 4th November; how many were accepted; what were the corresponding figures for Scotland; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?

Between seventy and eighty thousand men have enlisted voluntarily since the beginning of the war in classes for which recruiting was open, but figures for the ages of 22 to 35 are not available.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Greenock Artillery Territorials who have not yet received payment of this year's bounty are due to leave Greenock next week; whether he will make sure that their bounty will be paid before they leave; and whether he has reached a decision and, if so, what, regarding travelling expenses incurred by members of Territorial units in Greenock?

The hon. and learned Member has already been invited to furnish particulars of any cases where those entitled to proficiency grant have not received it, but he has not done so. As regards travelling expenses, I am informed that the men in question elected, and were permitted, to live in their own homes instead of occupying Army accommodation, and, in these circumstances, the travelling expenses involved are not admissible as a charge against the public.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it has been decided to increase the number of anti-aircraft units in this country; and whether he will consider reducing the age of recruits to be accepted for these units from the present age of 29 years?

It would not be desirable to make any statement as regards the first part of the question. Recruiting for these units is now open for tradesmen of 20 to 50, and for non-tradesmen of 22 to 50 years of age.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the advisability of suspending the age-limit for the employment of civilian employés in the Ordnance Department in order that men just over the age-limit who are able and willing to resume their duties should be available for re-engagement as and when required?

It is not considered desirable to suspend the age limit as a general rule, but exceptions are made in appropriate cases.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give encouragement to the recruitment of soldiers in popular local units, such as the Tyne-side Irish, Scottish, Welsh, and Jewish battalions, etc., thereby keeping friends together instead of scattering them under the present system?

If men voluntarily enlist together, they are likely to be able to remain together. Every effort is made to keep men in local units, but, as they have to be distributed according to various grades of qualifications and to the requirements of various arms of the Service, this is not always possible.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the existing heavy scale of taxation and as the reduction in officer's kit allowance from £40 to £30 is an unfair burden, he will reconsider the matter?

The reduction from £40 to £30 is in respect of the substitution of a suit of battle dress for one of the two suits of service dress previously required, and the necessary uniform can, in fact, be bought for less than £30. Officers who still need two suits of service dress still receive £40.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the granting of commissions to sanitary inspectors enlisting into the Royal Army Medical Corps as sanitary assistants, as has been done in the case of medical practitioners?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Leeds, South-East (Major Milner) on Tuesday, 17th October.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether officer cadets, in training a great distance from their homes, may be granted a week's leave during their training; and whether special consideration can be given for extended leave to all troops in this country during the Christmas and New Year season?

Arrangements have been made for officer cadets to have a week's leave at Christmas, and it is anticipated that every cadet will have at least a week's leave at the end of the course of training.As regards the second part of the question, so far as circumstances permit, the normal extended week-end leave will be given at Christmas and those who have not already had a week's leave during the current quarter will be allowed to take it at that season.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many men with scientific and engineering qualifications have been called up under the Military Service Act; and what provision is being made to use them in their technical capacities?

I regret that the information asked for in the first part of the question is not available.Men liable for national service are interviewed with a view to discovering their particular qualifications, and every effort is made to follow the recommendation of the interviewing authorities in the case of those who come to the Army.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many hutted camps have been completed; how many are under construction and at what cost; and whether any of these contracts have been made on a time and line basis?

Of 72 militia camps planned before the outbreak of war, about 50 have been completed except for minor details, and are in occupation. The estimated cost was £8,000,000. Contracts have been placed for 60 war training camps at an estimated cost of £10,000,000. Only one of the militia camp contracts was placed on a time and line basis.

asked the Secretary of State for War at what rates payment is made for hire of road motor goods-vehicles requisitioned by his Department; what are the periods of payment; and to what date full payment has already been made?

No vehicles have been requisitioned for hire by the War Department.

asked the Secretary of State for War at what rates payment is made for hire of road motor goods-vehicles by his Department; what are the periods of payment; and to what date full payment has already been issued?

Hiring of road transport vehicles is arranged by Army Commands at rates agreed with each individual contractor. Agreements provide for bills to be paid monthly or on completion of the service, if this is of shorter duration. Instructions have been issued that in cases where it has been impracticable to arrive at agreed rates, substantial advances should be made pending final settlement. In cases where rates cannot be agreed, provision is made for recourse to arbitration.The answer to the last part of the question could not be given without a large number of separate inquiries.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will state the simplest and most effective procedure for hon. Members to adopt when they receive complaints from their constituents regarding financial hardship caused by the calling up of men for service and in respect of which hardship no allowance has been made?

If the persons concerned are wives who have not received family allowance, the simplest and most effective procedure is to bring the case immediately to the notice of the regimental paymaster of the man's unit, giving his name and Army number.If they are dependants who have not already applied for an allowance, they should be advised to go to the nearest post office and ask for a form of application and a copy of "Notes for Guidance of Dependants," which will tell them what to do.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether proficiency pay can be given immediately to ex-service men now serving in the National Defence Companies who are certified by their commanding officers to be duly qualified, in view of the fact that it was only owing to the previously gained proficiency of these men in the use of their weapons that they were able to be armed and to carry out their guard duties immediately on the outbreak of war without any further training?

It is not practicable to have a special rule for the National Defence Companies which does not apply to any other men of the Territorial Army or Territorial Army Reserve. Members who have previous colour service of more than 12 months, which they declared on enlistment, will be given the benefit of it both for increments of pay and for 3d. military proficiency pay, on the certificate of their commanding officer, under the pre-war rules. Those who are in possession of a second class Army certificate of education are also eligible immediately for 3d. educational proficiency pay. Previous service declared on enlistment is being verified as quickly as possible, and any men who are qualified for increments or for proficiency pay will then be given the benefit of it with retrospective effect.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that in certain Royal Artillery units privates are having 2s. a week deducted from their pay for seven weeks to pay for Wellington boots; and will he authorise a free issue of such boots?

I am not aware that any soldiers of the Royal Artillery are being called upon to pay for Wellington boots. Wellington boots are not part of the approved scale of uniform of the Royal Artillery and no question of free issue arises.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give an assurance that an adequate supply of forms M.S.A.C. 10 or 21 for making application for allowances to the Military Service Special Allowances Advisory Committee is in the possession of every commanding officer; and that full instructions as to the committee's work has been issued to every commanding officer?

Full instructions have been issued to all Commands for communication to all concerned. These make it clear that commanding officers should obtain any copies of the form they require from the regimental paymaster. Adequate supplies are held by all regimental paymasters.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the serious hardships experienced by dentists at the present time; and whether he will consider devising a scheme whereby the services of civilian dental practitioners could be utilised by the Army Dental Corps?

The Army Dental Corps has already absorbed a number of civilian dental surgeons who have been appointed to commissions since the outbreak of war, and many more will be required as expansion proceeds.The arrangements for the supply of dentists both for the Services and for civilian requirements are in the hands of the Central Dental War Committee, which includes representatives of the profession.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that some men are still under canvas at Moss Band Camp, Longtown, Carlisle; that they have to walk 150 yards across a field to wash, only to find that the water-taps on occasions are frozen up; and will he take steps to improve the lot of these people?

All men at this camp are now in huts, and washing accommodation under cover is provided.

asked the Prime Minister whether, with a view to enlightening Members of Parliament, the public, and the Civil Service, he will arrange for the issue at the earliest possible opportunity of a concise guide as to the precise functions, responsibilities and objects of the various new Ministries and Departments which have been established since the war began; and whether, in particular, he will arrange that such guide makes it clear where the responsibilities of these Departments begin and end, especially in relation to one another and to the Departments already in existence before the war?

I will give this matter my consideration.

asked the Prime Minister what charge on public funds will be entailed by the activities conducted by the Royal Institute of International Affairs from a provincial headquarters?

I have been asked to reply. The exact amount of the grant in aid referred to in the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for Wycombe (Sir A. Knox) by my hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the Treasury on 3rd October last, has not yet been fixed; but it will probably not exceed £35,000 for the present financial year.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in considering the payment of any gratuity to members of His Majesty's Forces at the victorious conclusion of the present hostilities, such sums will be based upon the financial sacrifice made by the beneficiary as the result of his war service rather than the actual naval, military or air force rank held?

I have noted my hon. Friend's suggestion but I doubt whether any basis could be found on which to determine, even approximately, the relative financial sacrifices made by different individuals as a result of their war service.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that it was found in 1917 to 1918 that the larger a staff of a Government Department the more unnecessary work it made for itself and for other Departments and that, if he orders an arbitrary reduction of 50 per cent, of the staffs of every Department set up since the beginning of the war the usefulness of such Departments will not be diminished or retarded; and will he order an immediate combing out, to be followed by monthly revisions of staff to prevent increases?

The committee on the organisation and staffing of Government offices of 1917 to 1919 recommended a number of economies in individual Departments. They reported, however, that their conclusions had in practically every case been to the effect that, speaking broadly, the numbers and organisation of the staffs of Government offices did not compare unfavourably with those of large commercial houses. Moreover, at the present time the staffs of the various Departments are under continuous review.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will consider augmenting the pensions of civil servants, particularly those in receipt of small pensions, to meet the increased cost of living, as was done during the war years 1914–18?

His Majesty's Government are not prepared to take such action, which would require legislation.

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 that have been made by various Ministries from the declaration of war till the end of October of persons not already serving in the Civil Service?

The necessary information is being collected.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer in what form does he propose to grant assistance towards meeting the civil liabilities of men who have joined the Armed Forces as was done during the war 1914–18; and how will it be determined?

As explained by my right hon. Friend, the Financial Secretary, in the Debate in the House on the 17th October, it is open to members of the Armed Forces to apply to the Military Service (Special Allowances) Advisory Committee for special monetary assistance in cases where they are unable to meet their financial obligations, whereby serious hardship is caused. The conditions under which assistance may be granted are set out in Command Paper 6043, the provisions of which have been extended to cover all sailors, soldiers and airmen, but, as has already been stated, it is proposed to issue a White Paper dealing further, inter alia, with the question of special allowances.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered a copy of a resolution passed by the urban district council of Ince-in-Makerfield requesting that the question of the making up to the level of civil pay the pay and allowances receivable by all men serving in His Majesty's forces or in full-time Civil Defence should be a first call on the Exchequer; and what action he proposes to take in this connection?

I have seen a copy of the Resolution mentioned in the question. The Government do not see their way to give effect to the proposal put forward in the Resolution.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will give the names of the courts and Government Departments supplied with copies of the official Law Reports, and the number of copies supplied in each case; and whether he will give the courts and Government Departments to which copies of official Scottish Law Reports are supplied at Government expense; and how many copies are so supplied in each case?

As regards England and Wales, 157 copies of the Law Reports, published by the Incorporated Council of Law Reporting, and, as regards Scotland, 71 copies of the Session Cases are supplied at the Government expense for official use. I will send to my hon. and learned Friend particulars of the distribution of these copies, such particulars being too long for publication in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will state the composition of the committee on public issues?

The members of the Capital Issues Committee are:

• The Right Hon. Lord Kennet, G.B.E., D.S.O., D.S.C. (Chairman).
• B. G. Catterns, Esq. (Vice-Chairman).
• Thomas Frazer, Esq., F.F.A.
• Sir Austin Harris, K.B.E.
• A. A. Jamieson, Esq., M.C.
• Lieut.-Colonel J. B. Neilson, C.M.G., D.S.O.
• R. P. Wilkinson, Esq.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will state the highest and lowest average rate at which Treasury Bills have been sold during the present war and, for comparison, the lowest rate on any Friday during the Great War, and also the lowest rate on any Friday during the years 1919 to 1931, inclusive?

During the present war the highest rate for three months tender bills has been £3 12s. 1d., the average for the period to date £27s., and the lowest £13s. 4d.During the last war, several different methods of sale of Treasury Bills were in force at various times and the commonest type of bill was for six months. The highest rate for six months bills was £5 17s. 6d., the average £4 6s., and the lowest £1 12s. 3d.During the years 1919 to 1931 inclusive, for three months bills sold by weekly tender the highest rate was £6 5s. 3d., the average £4 1s. 6d., and the lowest £1 13s. 6d.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Dominions have accepted the date and intend to be represented at the December meetings of the Council and Assembly of the League of Nations?

This matter is under consideration, and I am not in a position to make a statement at present.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether he is aware that some 60,000 school-children in the City of Leeds are at present without educational facilities; that this state of affairs is causing serious concern to parents and the local authority; and whether he will indicate what steps he proposes to take in the matter?

The Board have no exact figures of the number of children remaining in Leeds. The position will be modified as effect is given to the decision which I announced in the House allowing the reopening of schools in certain circumstances in evacuation areas.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether the closing of any public elementary schools in neutral areas was authorised by the Board; and what steps are being taken by the Board to secure that schools in neutral areas should be reopened?

All schools in neutral areas were closed for instruction at the outbreak of war, the local education authorities being subsequently notified that the schools might be reopened on or after nth September. It was stated that an important factor in determining the date for reopening was the degree of protection available for the children while in school, and authorities were urged to complete the necessary measures with the least possible delay.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the great importance of increasing the production of coal, he will consider instituting a central coordinated scheme for the proper drainage of water-logged mines in the county of Durham?

Discussions with a view to the establishment of a joint pumping scheme in South-West Durham have been proceeding for some time, but have not, I regret to say, resulted up to now in the production of an agreed scheme.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will give some assurance that road operators shall be ensured supplies of container-gas when these supplies are available; and that there is no intention of granting a monopoly of supply to the railway-owned road vehicles?

I hope to be able to make a statement on the question of alternative fuels this week.

asked the Secretary for Mines why it is necessary to ration coal and coke?

I would refer the hon. Member to the statement I made during the Debate on the Adjournment on 10th October, and to the reply I gave on 24th October to the hon. Member for Chester-le-Street (Mr. Lawson).

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that coal stocks are rising at the railway sidings in Farnworth and Bolton, and dealers are unable to release waggons for which railway companies are now making urgent requests; and will he, therefore, relax the household rationing in these areas in order that the difficulties may be overcome?

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that unemployment is being caused in some coal mines in Nottinghamshire by the coal rationing scheme; and whether he is prepared to modify, or suspend, the scheme in respect of that area till a real need for rationing arises?

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the increased output of coal from the mines, he will consider raising the rationing of house-fire coal from 75 per cent. to 100 per cent. and thus relieve the anxiety prevailing on this matter?

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he now proposes to make any modification in the coal rationing scheme, having regard to the continuance of short-time working at many collieries?

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that colliery companies in West Yorks producing good quality house coal are concerned at the rationing of household coal and are of opinion that this Order will have a detrimental effect upon this class of trade in the future; and whether he is in a position to say whether a suspension of the Order is contemplated in the near future?

The survey of stocks and consumption which I referred to in the answer I gave on 31st October to my hon. Friend the Member for Ealing (Sir F. Sanderson) is nearly completed and I hope to be in a position to make a statement very shortly.

asked the Secretary for Mines how many coal mines have been re-opened since the commencement of the war and how many unemployed miners have been re-absorbed into the industry; and whether he can give any indication as to when the industry will be producing the extra 7,000,000 tons saved by rationing?

Since the outbreak of war 26 pits, each employing 10 or more persons on the 28th October and in the aggregate 4,142 persons, have been opened or re-opened.As regards the last part of the question, I have, as I informed the House in the course of the Debate on the 10th October, asked the Mining Association and the Mineworkers' Federation jointly to consider how best to secure an increase in production, but I am unable to say when an increase of seven million tons per annum will be secured.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether coal-slack which, in combination with bitumen, is used for making briquettes, comes under the Coal Fuel Rationing Order; and whether he will consider the exemption of coal-slack from the provisions of the Fuel Order?

Coal-slack is mainly supplied to industrial premises, the majority of which are not subject to rationing. I am not prepared to exempt any particular solid fuel from the operation of the Order.

asked the Secretary for Mines what consultations took place to ascertain public opinion prior to introducing the coal rationing scheme, including all parties in the coal trade; if he has tested the same opinion since the scheme has been in force and with what results; and will he consider modifying or annulling the Order?

The arrangements for rationing coal, gas and electricity were prepared in close consultation with representatives of the interests affected, including the Coal Merchants' Federation, the co-operative societies, the National Gas Council and the Electricity Commission. This contact has since been maintained. With regard to the last part of the question I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to-day to my hon. Friend the Member for Worcester, Evesham (Mr. De la Bere).

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is paying special attention to the economic need of maintaining, and increasing where possible, the export of coal; and, in particular, whether he is satisfied that adequate steps have been taken to maintain and increase, where possible, the export of coal to Argentina, Brazil, Denmark and Sweden and the whole of the Scandinavian market?

Yes, Sir. My Department is working in the closest collaboration with other Departments concerned with the object that the hon. Member has in mind.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has considered the further representations of the Mine-workers' Federation with regard to the inspection of mines by workmen's representatives; and whether he is now prepared to make regulations along the lines of the memorandum presented to him by the consultative committee for the mining industry?

I have not received any further representations from the Mine-workers' Federation and, as I explained in reply to a question by the hon. Member on 17th October, action in the matter is dependent on legislation and could not be taken by way of regulation.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been drawn to the difficulties experienced by users of anthracite coal for domestic purposes in securing supplies from their registered suppliers; and whether he is taking any steps to enable consumers who desire anthracite coal to secure supplies?

I am not aware of the difficulties to which the hon. Member refers, but if he will let me have any specific instances which have come to his notice I will certainly look into them.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the serious loss of output caused by short-time working at the Bedlington collieries, due to the shortage of wagons; and whether he will take steps to remove this shortage?

I have communicated with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport, who informs me that this colliery has received sufficient wagons to enable it to continue working provided that the wagons standing under load are forwarded with reasonable despatch. Owing to shipping difficulties, this has not been possible. Such difficulties caused by irregularity of arrival of ships are not confined to this colliery, and I am in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Shipping on the matter.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has considered the question of the extraction of oil from coal; is he aware that successful processes are now in operation by our allies; and will he say when he will be prepared to institute similar processes in this country?

Yes, Sir. As regards the second part of the question I am in touch with the work which is being done elsewhere and the whole subject is under constant study in my Department.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the director of education in Norwich has been appointed fuel control officer, which appointment is likely to prevent him from attending adequately to his duties; and whether he will give guidance to local authorities on such appointments?

The appointment of local fuel overseers is a matter for local authorities. I am sending the hon. Member copies of the instructions which have been sent to local authorities in this connection.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has considered a resolution from the Western Counties division of the Motor Agents' Association, Limited, drawing attention to the hardship caused to motor traders, already badly hit by the war, by the cash before delivery terms on pool petrol; and what action does he propose to take in the matter?

I am looking into this matter and I should be glad if the hon. Member would put down his question again next week.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he has now decided what is the appropriate principle to adopt in his arrangements with shipowners as to the remuneration to be paid for British ships requisitioned for Government service?

I am unable at present to add to the reply I gave to the hon. Member on 31st October.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he is supplying British tonnage under requisition, and at rates equivalent to those paid in respect of tonnage requisitioned for military and naval supplies, for the conveyance of food and raw materials purchased by the Ministries of Food and of Supply?

Apart from a few voyages made under special circumstances, food and raw materials purchased by the Ministries named are being conveyed in ships chartered by them at rates of freight which, in the case of British ships are controlled by means of the licensing system. Rates for requisitioned vessels generally have not yet been fixed.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he can give the names of his nautical assistants who advise on the suitability of requisitioned ships for the service required?

With very few exceptions ships have been requisitioned only for the Defence Services. In selecting ships for these services, the Ministry uses its own technical staff and the technical staffs of the Department on whose behalf the ship is being requisitioned, as well as those of the owners of the ships, are also consulted wherever necessary.

asked the Minister of Shipping (1) whether, in view of the serious reduction in British shipbuilding capacity as a result of the activities of National Shipbuilders' Security, Limited, he can state what measures are contemplated by the Ministry to increase the productive capacity of the British shipbuilding industry;(2) whether, in view of the need for increased shipbuilding capacity, any measures are contemplated which will free the shipyard site of Palmers', Jarrow, from the restrictive ban imposed on it by the National Shipbuilders Security, Limited?

I have in hand a programme of shipbuilding and am advised that restrictions on yards previously regarded as redundant will not be a limiting factor in that programme.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he is taking steps to replace lost tonnage by new construction; whether available shipyards, plant and labour are now fully occupied; and whether all the powers previously possessed by the Board of Trade in matters of shipbuilding have now been transferred to his Ministry?

Yes, Sir. The hon. Member will understand that although shipyards suitable for building cargo-carriers may be fully employed, it is impracticable to arrange such an even flow of work that there would never be surplus labour in particular trades.The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he is aware of the series of disputes affecting Indian seamen concerning conditions of labour, wages, war-risk bonuses, and the employment of police under the Merchant Shipping Act to break up strikes; whether he is also aware that the crew of one of the ships charge the captain with violence and intimidation; and whether, in view of the unfortunate impression these disputes are likely to make, he will take action to secure a general improvement in the condition of Indian seamen, and an inquiry into their allegations?

I am aware of the disputes mentioned by the hon. Member, but I have no information that police are being employed to break up strikes. I am aware of one case in which the members of the lascar crew have made allegations of violence against the captain, but I have received no evidence in support of the allegations.With regard to the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to his question of the 24th October on this subject.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he is aware that coastal services are penalised, as compared with rail services, by having to bear the cost of war risks insurance of ships, while, under the terms on which the Government has taken over the railways, all war damage to railways and Tolling stock will be made good free of insurance premiums; and what action he is taking to place shipping on an equality with the railways in this respect?

I am informed that the terms mentioned by my hon. Friend do not correctly describe the arrangements made by the Government with the railways but the whole question of the burden falling on coastal services is being examined as a matter of urgency by my Department in consultation with the Board of Trade and other Departments concerned, and I hope soon to be in a position to make a statement on the matter.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he has now set up an advisory board of shipowners' representatives and those of their employes; and will he state the personnel of the board?

Yes, Sir. The Advisory Council held its first meeting on Friday last. The following is the List of Members:

• Sir John Gilmour (The Minister of Shipping).
• Sir Cyril Hurcomb (Director-General, Ministry of Shipping).
• Sir Vernon Thomson (Principal Shipping Adviser).
• Sir Julian Foley (Secretary, Ministry of Shipping).
• Sir Percy E. Bates, C.B.E. (Cunard White Star Limited, etc.).
• Mr. S. C. Bradley (Amalgamated Engineering Union).
• Mr. D. Bramah, C.B.E. (Marine Engineers Association).
• Captain W. H. Coombs (Officers (Merchant Navy) Federation).
• Sir William C. Currie (P. & O. Steam Navigation Company, etc.).
• Lord Essendon (Furness Withy and Company, Limited, Royal Mail Lines, Limited, etc.).
• Sir Philip Haldin (Court Line Limited, Lamport and Holt Line, Limited).
• Mr. H. S. Holden (Ellerman Lines Limited, etc.).
• Mr. S. James (National Union of Seamen).
• The Hon. J. P. Maclay, M.P. (Maclay and Mclntyre, Limited).
• Mr. D. W. Milford (Transport and General Workers Union).
• Mr. H. J. Perkins (Radio Officers Union).
• Sir Alfred Read (Coast Lines, Limited).
• Mr. George Reed (National Union of Seamen).
• Sir G. Leighton Seager, C.B.E., J.P. (W. H. Seager and Company, Limited).
• Mr. W. R. Spence, C.B.E. (National Union of Seamen).
• Sir Arthur M. Sutherland, Bt., K.B.E.(B. J. Sutherland and Company, Limited, etc.).
• Mr. A. Wilson (Mercantile Marine Service Association).