asked the Minister of Labour whether he will give sympathetic consideration to the representations made to him by the hon. Member for Barnstaple, supported by 21 other hon. Members, in relation to members of lifeboat crews who at present lose one day's unemployment pay when they go out on lifeboat service?

I am giving this matter my sympathetic attention and hope to reach an early decision which I will communicate to my hon. Friend.

asked the Minister of Labour what is the total number of farm workers registered as unemployed in each county and the whole country?

The numbers of insured persons in farming, forestry, etc., recorded as unemployed (including those temporarily suspended from work) in Great Britain were 27,053 at 11th December, 39,394 at 15th January, and 47,555 at 12th February. The figures for January and February were inflated as a result of the exceptionally severe weather conditions, which in many cases made work in the open impossible on the dates on which the monthly count of the numbers unemployed was taken. Statistics of unemployment are not ordinarily compiled by counties.

asked the Minister of Labour how many men have been called up under the Military Training Act, 1939, Up to date; how many have registered as conscientious objectors; and how many have obtained exemption under the hardship clause?

It would not be in the public interest to give the numbers of men who have been called up for service in the Armed Forces. The total number of men registered under the Military Training Act and Armed Forces Act up to date is about 1,270,000. Up to 9th March, 1940, 25,801 men had registered provisionally as conscientious objectors. Postponement on the ground of exceptional hardship had been granted under the Armed Forces Act to 11,768 men up to 29th February.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is considering relief for married men by way of postponement of calling-up for His Majesty's Forces or otherwise?

I do not propose to postpone the calling up of married men generally, but in cases where exceptional hardship would ensue application may be made for a postponement certificate.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the number of men engaged in factories processing milk; and whether any of these men are regarded as key employés and entitled to exemption from Army service?

The number of men engaged in factories processing milk is estimated to be about 10,000. All men of and over the age of 30 (other than labourers) engaged in productive processes in milk and condensed milk processing are reserved under the schedule of reserved occupations.

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that expert cheese makers have to undergo a minimum three-years' course of instruction, and then need additional years of practical experience, he will consider lowering the age of reservation of such key men in the industry.

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to my reply on 14th March to a Question on this subject by my hon. Friend the Member for Stourbridge (Mr. R. Morgan).

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered the present shortage of certain classes of labour in the cotton industry; and if he will reduce the age of reservation for employés in such positions as loom-overlookers?

I made a statement upon this subject in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Willesden East (Mr. Hammersley) on 13th March, a copy of which I am sending to the hon. Member.

asked the Home Secretary the number of burning pit-heaps in County Durham which have now been effectively dealt with, and the number remaining for treatment; and whether measures are in operation for the prevention of similar accumulations in future?

Of the 61 pit-heaps in the county of Durham, 27 were originally classified as burning continuously and 17 as liable to flame from time to time. As a result of treatment there are now none in the first category and only 11 in the second. Remedial measures are being continued. As regard the last part of the Question, this is a matter for my hon. Friend the Secretary for Mines.

asked the Home Secretary (1) how many British-born persons arrested under Section 18Bof the Emergency Powers Act are still in prison; how many of them are Communists or Marxists; and how many are identified with anti-Semitic activities;(2) how many British-born persons arrested under Section 18B have now been in prison for six months without having had any proper trial, legal assistance, or witnesses called in their defence;(3) whether, in reviewing the cases of British subjects imprisoned under Section 18B, evidence other than that for the prosecution is asked for and considered?

The number of British subjects detained on security grounds under Defence Regulation 18B is 40, of whom 23 are of enemy origin and four of alien, but not enemy, origin. Among the 40 are 13 who have been detained for six months or upwards, six of these being persons of enemy origin and one of alien, but not enemy, origin. As I have explained on previous occasions, any person detained under this regulation has a right to make objections to the Advisory Committee. The proceedings before the committee are not in the nature of a prosecution and the committee has a complete discretion as to its procedure and can, and does, call whatever witnesses it thinks can give information which will assist it in the examination of a case. I am not concerned with the political opinions of persons so detained and I am therefore unable to supply information on this point.

asked the Home Secretary what reply he has returned to a communication from the Early Closing Association on shops hours of closing, expressing disappointment that the withdrawal of the Order-in-Council has not been accompanied by some intimation that the return to pre-war hours of shop closing is to be reviewed to confirm the necessity for such a step?

I have informed the association that there is no power under the Emergency Powers (Defence) Act, 1939, to make a regulation fixing for the summer (when daylight lasts until 8 p.m. or later) earlier closing hours than those fixed by Section 1 of the Shops (Hours of Closing) Act, 1928.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, in spite of their legal right to keep their shops open to a later hour, a large proportion of shopkeepers close their establishments as they did during the black-out, because their experience has proved that the public have got accustomed to do their shopping early; that in spite of that a small minority in some townships break through this practice to the annoyance of the majority; and will he take early steps, under the emergency powers, or otherwise, to secure the universal closing of shops to coincide with those which prevailed during the black-out?

As I have explained in reply to previous Questions, I have no power under the Emergency Powers (Defence) Act, 1939, to continue during the summer the earlier closing hours which have been in force during the black-out in the winter, but I would remind the hon. Member that if two-thirds of the shopkeepers in any trade in any district agree on earlier closing, it is already open to them to request their local authority to make a closing order under the Shops Act, 1912.

asked the Home Secretary when the review of certain classes of enemy aliens who have been exempted from internment will begin; and whether he intends to enlarge the scope of this review as originally proposed?

Yes, Sir. In addition to the review already announced of Germans and Austrians who have been placed in the intermediate B category, I am asking the advisory committees to review cases where, as a result of fresh information or for some other special reason, the police have grounds for thinking that a reclassification of Germans or Austrians placed in the C category is desirable. I am also asking these committees to undertake an examination of cases of aliens of all nationalities residing in or around certain important naval centres. Much of the work necessary to bring this scheme into operation has already been completed and the carrying out of this review will proceed expeditiously.

asked the Home Secretary what reply he has returned to the resolution from the council of the city and county of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, dated Wednesday, 21st February, 1940, asking for an inquiry into the understandings reached and the undertakings given in the negotiations between local authorities and the Home Office, and the extent to which those understandings and undertakings have been varied?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on 29th February to Questions by the hon. Members for Cheltenham (Mr. Lipson), Stratford (Mr. Groves) and West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen) the effect of which has been conveyed to the education authority for Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that large numbers of air-raid precautions workers in Renfrewshire have received notice of dismissal; that the position has created surprise in the areas concerned and apprehension in adjoining areas; what were the reasons alleged for the dismissals; and whether he will make a statement on the position and what steps he proposes to take in regard to the matter?

The local authority gave notice to a number of their paid A.R.P. volunteers in different parts of the county suspending their employment from noon to-day, being in doubt whether the pay of some of them, who were engaged without authority, would be reimbursed by the Exchequer. The need for whole-time rather than part-time volunteers in the services affected is being examined in the light of the general review of A.R.P. establishments now in progress, and the question of ultimate reimbursement will be determined as soon as practicable. I understand that the notices have been withdrawn. My Department are still in communication with the local authority.

asked the Home Secretary whether economy in air-raid precautions, now being considered, can be implemented at once by the non-replacement of vacancies in the various paid services?

The rate at which reductions can appropriately be made depends upon circumstances in particular services and areas, and it would be impracticable to apply generally an inflexible rule on the lines suggested.

asked the Home Secretary whether it is intended by the Government to have all gas masks reconstructed, or only a few experimentally?

I assume that the hon. Member refers to the repair of damaged respirators about which my Department has recently sent a communication to local authorities. It is intended that all respirators found on inspection to be damaged shall be withdrawn and either repaired or replaced.

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the fact that in many places where electricity is available, oil-stoves are being used for heating dug-outs for air-raid precautions wardens; and whether, in view of the deleterious effect on the health of those concerned from the fumes, etc., he will recommend to local authorities that, where possible, electricity should be used?

Steps have been taken to discourage the use of oil for heating and lighting wardens' posts and the use of electricity is being approved wherever it is available at reasonable cost.

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the difficulty which farmers are experiencing with regard to the burning of weeds and rubbish owing to the fact that fires, which sometimes smoulder for a considerable time, must be put out before black-out starts, and that wet weather frequently intervenes and both prevents the resumption of firing and causes delay in ploughing; and whether, in view of the fact that ploughing is now allowed by floodlighting, the bonfires of weeds and rubbish can be allowed to burn themselves out in the usual way?

No, Sir. No complaints have reached me from farmers about difficulties arising from the requirement that bonfires shall be extinguished during the hours of darkness. The lights allowed for ploughing are, of course, screened and under control and can be extinguished if an air raid occurs.

asked the Home Secretary whether a recent inspection has been made of air-raid shelters provided in dangerous areas by private firms for their manual and clerical staffs; and whether he is satisfied that adequate provision has now been made for their protection?

It has not been possible to inspect all the shelters provided in accordance with Part III of the Civil Defence Act. The returns made under the Act are, however, accompanied by plans which enable the shelters to be approved in most cases without inspection. The full provision of shelters contemplated by the Act has not yet been reached, but very satisfactory progress has been made.

asked the Home Secretary to what extent at the present time the advice of structural engineers, architects and other experts, is being used by his Department to keep up to date as far as possible, the codes and regulations with regard to the protection of buildings against air-raids, and the erection of special air-raid shelters; and whether any special steps have been taken to obtain the latest data in this respect from Finland?

The branch of the Air-Raid Precautions Department devoted to research and experiments was expanded at the outbreak of war by the addition of engineering, architectural and other experts. In addition, the Department receives very valuable assistance from the Building Technical Advisory Committee. As regards the latter part of the Question, I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that all appropriate steps have been taken.

asked the Minister of Health why a distinction is made between the English and the Scottish representatives on the Committee of Consultant Advisers to the Emergency Hospital Service, seeing that the latter give their services without payment and the former do not?

I think there must be some misapprehension. There is no committee of consultant advisers. The information which I gave in reply to my hon. Friend on 8th February expressly related only to England and Wales. I am satisfied that the time which the consultant advisers in England and Wales are required to give to their duties is such as fully to justify the payments made to them. The arrangements made in Scotland are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland.

asked the Minister of Health what types of first-aid post medical officers are to be exempted from the payment of £75 a year, recently announced; and why the distinction is to be made?

I am not aware that any particular type of medical officer is excepted from the payment referred to. The local authorities, who are responsible in the first instance for the staffing arrangements of first-aid posts, are authorised to make the payment in respect of each post in the more vulnerable areas as specified in Part III of the Civil Defence Act, in consideration of the performance of certain specified duties.

asked the Minister of Health whether emergency mobile surgical teams, to operate wherever needed, have been organised in England as well as in Scotland?

Yes, Sir, these teams, which are essential in order to secure the necessary economy in medical personnel, have been organisd in both countries.

asked the Minister of Health whether persons injured in air raids, but not actually admitted to hospital, will be entitled to treatment by medical practitioners at the rate of 16s. a year?

Such persons, if they have received out-patient treatment at a hospital, are entitled to further treatment under the conditions of the scheme, as set out in the memorandum already sent to the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Health whether a medical practitioner will be entitled to refuse to attend an air raid casualty bringing the required certificate from a hospital on the ground that the individual casualty is well able to afford normal fees for his treatment?

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to his Question on this subject on 4th March, from which he will see that the scheme referred to is not binding on any individual practitioner.

asked the Minister of Health whether the services to be provided by medical practitioners for air raid casualties at 16s. a year will include psychological treatment?

Subject to the conditions set out in the published memorandum already sent to the hon. Member the scheme to which he refers covers any domiciliary medical attention which is required as the result of the air raid injury.

asked the Minister of Health whether air-raid casualties, provided with the necessary hospital certificate, will have free choice of doctor for their subsequent treatment; and what steps he proposes to take if there is no doctor available who is willing to undertake the treatment for 16s. a year?

As to the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to his Questions on this subject on 4th March. I do not think that any steps are required to meet the situation suggested in the second part, which is, I hope, unlikely to arise, having regard to the acceptance of the scheme by representatives of the great majority of doctors concerned.

asked the Minister of Health whether the acceptance of 16s. in respect of the treatment of an air-raid casualty will create conditions which will prevent the particular casualty seeking the advice of another doctor, except at his own expense, if the services of the doctor accepting the 16s. should be no longer available or should be no longer agreeable to the patient?

If the doctor accepting the fee is no longer available the patient will no doubt have the advantage of whatever arrangements are made for carrying on the practice. I am not satisfied that any other special arrangements are required to meet the other contingency mentioned by the hon. Member.

asked the Minister of Health whether, in order to prevent hardship to the owner-occupiers of small dwelling houses, it is intended to introduce legislation to protect mortgagors, who themselves occupy dwelling houses within the limits of rateable value referred to in the Rent and Mortgage Interest Restrictions Acts, from increases in rates of mortgage interest, in the same way as mortgagors who let their houses are protected by those Acts?

No, Sir. I am not satisfied that such legislation is necessary. The circumstances of the mortgagors to whom the hon. Member refers, are not strictly comparable with those of a mortgagor whose house is let subject to the restrictions of the Rent and Mortgage Interest Restrictions Acts.

asked the Minister of Health whether he has now come to any decision with regard to giving Watlington, Oxon, a pure water supply?

I am satisfied that the scheme which has been submitted to me is necessary and should be proceeded with as soon as possible. I am advised, however, that there is some doubt whether the quantity of water required can be obtained from the source proposed, and this question is now being considered by the local authority's consulting engineers.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is prepared to make orders or regulations which will place non-contributory old age pensioners on a parity with other old age pensioners, as concerns the disregards in connection with the assessment of means?

I think that my hon. Friend's Question is based on a misapprehension. The provisions of the Bill under which certain specified resources are to be disregarded by the Assistance Board, apply for the purposes of supplementary pensions equally whether the applicant is in receipt of a contributory or a non-contributory pension.

asked the Minister of Health whether the Association of Anaesthetists is separately represented on the Central Medical War Committee?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Minister of Health whether the Government have considered taking any steps to check the rise in local rates by reducing, where possible, the statutory expenditure imposed on local authorities?

The Government do not contemplate reduction of the essential services for the maintenance of which local authorities are by Statute responsible, though, as my hon. Friend is doubtless aware, the effect of more than one recent Measure will be to reduce charges falling upon ratepayers. I am sure that local authorities themselves appreciate the need for all possible economy in administration which is compatible with the adequate maintenance of the services which Parliament has entrusted to them.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is satisfied that it is in the best interest of the Government that Lord Stamp should act as adviser to the Government at the same time as he is acting as adviser to companies having claims against the Government; how many distinct appointments Lord Stamp has on behalf of the Government; and how many positions as adviser and director he still holds?

Lord Stamp's official position is that of Adviser on Economic Co-ordination to His Majesty's Government and President of the Interdepartmental Committee on Economic Policy. He is Chairman of the London Midland and Scottish Railway, whose operations are now under Government control, and holds certain other directorships which form an integral part of his railway work; he is also a Director of the Bank of England. The country needs at this time the services of the ablest advisers in many spheres and it has been judged neither necessary nor desirable to insist that advisers who have no direct executive functions should lay down for the time being any commercial posts that they may hold. It is needless for me to say that Lord Stamp does not advise His Majesty's Government in their relations with institutions with which he is connected.

asked the Prime Minister what is the machinery for ensuring close and constant contact and consultation between the Imperial Government and the Dominion Governments; and whether he is satisfied that this machinery is sufficient and effective for all war purposes?

The closest contact is maintained both directly between Governments, through High Commissioners in London and in the Dominion capitals, and through an immense variety of technical and subordinate liaison arrangements covering every field of our relations. I am fully satisfied as to the effectiveness of this machinery.

asked the Prime Minister what was the approximate area and population of the Hatay which was ceded by France to Turkey in June, 1939?

The following figures have been obtained from official French sources:Approximate population, 220,000.Approximate area, 4,800 square kilometres.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been called to the fact that a large number of premises are being used in the London area at the present time for the conduct of bottle parties; that, despite the fact that large quantities of alcoholic liquor are consumed thereon, no licence or other corresponding duty is paid as would be the case with hotels or restaurants; whether he proposes to take any action in this matter; and can he provide statistics of the number of such establishments in the London area?

I am aware that a certain number of premises in the London area are being used for the purpose described, and that licences for the sale of intoxicating liquor are not held in respect of them. The matter is receiving close attention, and proceedings are taken in any case where a breach of the law is established.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the recent increase in Income Tax, he will review the present rules under which expenditure upon research is regarded as capital expenditure and not normally allowable in a profit and loss account for the purposes of assessment, whereas expenditure on such items as advertising is allowable in this connection; and whether, in view of the importance of scientific research to the export trade of this country, he will endeavour to introduce an appropriate remedy in his forthcoming Budget?

My hon. Friend would not be correct in assuming that in no circumstances would expenditure incurred by a trading concern on research for the purposes of its business be admissible as a deduction in computing its profits for Income Tax purposes. If he has any particular case in mind, and will let me know the facts, I will gladly look into it and communicate to him the result of my inquiries.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in the event of dealings in certain securities not taking place freely on or about the date of the death of a holder of those securities at or above prescribed minimum Stock Exchange prices, the said minimum prices are to be taken as representing the market value for the purpose of assessing Death Duties; or whether the assessment will be

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many motor vehicles, including cycles, classed in categories, were licensed as at the end of February, 1940; what revenue had been received, respectively; and what were the corresponding figures for February, 1939?

The particulars asked for are furnished below:based on the estimated value in a free market?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the provisions of Section 7 (5) of the Finance Act, 1894, under which the value of any property for Estate Duty purposes is to be taken at the price which, in the opinion of the Commissioners of Inland Revenue, such property would fetch if sold in the open market at the date of the deceased's death.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that there is considerable dissatisfaction among members of the air defence of Great Britain in this country because they do not receive tobacco at the cheap rate enjoyed by men doing precisely the same kind of work overseas; and whether he will consider the extension of this privilege to these men while on active service guarding the home front?

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Central Newcastle (Mr. Denville) on 23rd January last.

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the Agricultural Wages (Regulation) Amendment Bill is quite incomprehensible without frequent reference to the Agricultural Wages (Regulation) Act, 1924, and that copies of the Act in question are not available to Members in the Vote Office; and will he take steps to see that they are made so available before the House is asked to proceed further with the Bill?

I understand that copies of the Act in question are now available to Members in the Vote Office.

the Minister of Economic Warfare what steps have been taken to ration neutral countries in respect of the import of certain commodities which are suspected of passing through to Germany?

I fear that for the reasons which I explained in the answer which I gave to the hon. Member for Romford (Mr. Parker) on 20th February, and in my statement on 18th March, I am unable to give the hon. Member any details of the arrangements which have been made with neutral countries.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he will state the functions of the purchasing commission in America; the value of contracts placed by the commission up to date; and the value of orders placed, other than through the commission, since the outbreak of hostilities?

The primary function of the British Supply Board in Canada and the United States is to place orders for munitions in those countries on behalf of the Admiralty, the Air Ministry and the Ministry of Supply when circumstances necessitate recourse to those countries. I am afraid that it would not be in the public interest for me to supply the information sought in the last part of the Question.

asked the Minister of Supply under what authority his Department is taking control of the repair and examination of motor vehicles coming to this country from overseas, and from what date; and will he indicate the technical and administrative machinery it is proposed to employ for that purpose?

The Question presumably relates to motor vehicles required for the Army: control of the repair and examination of such vehicles was included among the powers and duties of the Secretary of State for War and the Army Council which were transferred to me by the Ministry of Supply (Transfer of Powers) Order in Council made on 25th July last. The Director-General of Tanks and Transport in the Ministry of Supply is responsible for the administration and technical machinery attaching to this repair service. He has on his staff for the work the Director of Mechanisation and the Chief Inspector of Mechanisation, who were transferred from the War Office to the Ministry on the formation of the Ministry.

asked the Minister of Supply what progress has been made in stimulating the collection of useful salvage?

I welcome this opportunity of giving a short summary of the position of the salvage campaign for the recovery of waste and dormant materials. The policy of my Department has been to utilise the widespread network of refuse collection schemes of the local authorities, and the ordinary trade channels of merchants, marine store dealers, etc., rather than to set up a new collecting organisation. A detailed memorandum was issued on 30th November to all local authorities in England, Scotland and Wales; and 1,000 of these, each representing populations of over 10,000 (in Scotland 5,000), were asked to make monthly returns showing under various headings the amount of useful salvage disposed of. The returns received show that the number of these larger councils who were doing some salvage work was 316 in November, 394 in December, 440 in January, and 497 in February (judging from returns received up to 19th March). There has been considerable extension during March and the number of the larger councils now operating salvage schemes in more or less degree is estimated at over 550, representing a population of approximately 30 millions.The memorandum referred to has been supplemented by further circulars from time to time, dealing either with the urgency of salvage generally, or with some special aspect, such as waste paper and pig food. A campaign for the collection of scrap iron, especially from works, farms and estates, is being conducted by the Iron and Steel Control of the Ministry. In order to assist the authorities, my salvage department have held a number of district conferences, and have also appointed 22 honorary district advisers, who have given invaluable help in advising and helping with the formation and extension of salvage schemes in their areas. To aid councils in developing their collection schemes, we have enlisted the co-operation of several voluntary organisations, such as the Women's Voluntary Services, the Women's Institutes, and the Boy Scouts, all of whom are giving valuable voluntary service in a number of places. The Board of Education have also agreed to invite the interest and co-operation of schools throughout the country. While our appeal met with early response from most of the larger provincial authorities, there was some delay in some of the Metropolitan boroughs and the small urban and rural areas. I am glad to say, however, that the Metropolitan boroughs, with one exception, have all now introduced or planned salvage schemes on a more or less extensive scale. Complete or fairly complete schemes are in operation in 16 of the boroughs and are planned in eight others. Schemes dealing with a more limited range of materials are in operation in four of the boroughs.For the rural areas, I addressed a request to all the Lords Lieutenant of the counties, inviting them to communicate with the local councils and the Press in their respective counties. Already about 40 Lords Lieutenant have taken the action requested, and I am glad to say that it has resulted in arousing interest in the counties. These steps have necessarily taken some time, but the movement is now widespread, and is daily gaining momentum.

asked the Minister of Supply whether his attention has been called to the shortage of timber in the Swansea area for building purposes, the effect of which is to increase the number of unemployed; and what steps are being taken to remedy this?

As I have previously explained to the House, there is an acute shortage (not of course confined to the area to which the hon. Member refers) of timber suitable for building purposes. In order to utilise the supplies available in the best possible manner their utilisation, even for essential war requirements, is strictly controlled in accordance with allocations made by the Priority Committee. To give effect to these allocations, the Government Departments primarily concerned with different types of building have accepted responsibility for considering cases affecting them, and licences to acquire or use timber for such purposes are issued by the Timber Controller on their advice. All possible steps are being taken to increase the supplies of timber, and also to ensure the use of brick, concrete and other alternative materials so far as possible.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that valuable agricultural land in a part of Yorkshire, which has been indicated to him, which is already sown with wheat, and of which the grassland has been ploughed up under the Government scheme, is detailed by his Department for the erection of a factory; and, as this has given great discouragement to local farmers, if he will reconsider his decision in the matter?

The land in question was selected as the only site in that part of Yorkshire which fulfilled requirements in all respects. It was in fact the least valuable from an agricultural point of view of several sites considered fully by a representative meeting of agricultural interests held at Wakefield recently. During the past week-end a representative of the Ministry has visited the district to investigate the possibility of securing a suitable alternative site, but without success.

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he will consider the advisability of offering the "Queen Mary" and the "Queen Elizabeth" for sale in America, as these vessels appear to be unsuitable for use in time of war, and, if they could be sold, would provide foreign exchange for war purposes?

I do not consider this would be advisable.

asked the Minister of Food whether he now expects any surplus of last year's potatoes, and, if so, what is likely to be the amount of this surplus; and what exactly is going to be done with the 5s. levy which is being collected in respect of such potatoes?

It is not yet possible to form a reliable estimate of what the surplus of potatoes will be at the end of the season, but a census of stocks is being taken. It is provided by Order that the proceeds of the levy shall be paid into a Potato Fund which, after defraying the expenses of the Ministry in connection with the scheme of control, shall be applied by my right hon. Friend in accordance with arrangements approved by the Treasury. Consideration will be given to the question of the arrangements when the prospective surplus position can be more clearly ascertained.

asked the Minister of Food whether he will make a statement on the working of meat rationing, saying what complaints he has received?

The first week of meat rationing worked smoothly on the whole. A few cases of shortages of supplies were reported, but steps were taken immediately to provide additional supplies. In general, these difficulties were due to the inability of the butchers concerned to notify earlier the local food control committees of the full numbers of their registered customers.

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the widespread concern relative to the method of branding pigs for grading purposes; and whether he is considering the immediate introduction of a more humane alternative method of classification?

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply which I gave on 14th March to my hon. Friend the Member for South Kensington (Sir W. Davison).

asked the Minister of Food whether, in connection with the marking of pigs, he can state what alternative methods of marking have been put up to him and rejected by his Department; and whether, if the actual weight of the pigs was settled before they were killed and then payment made, there would be any necessity for marking the animals at all?

Before deciding upon the ear-marking method which is at present in use, my Department considered the following alternative methods of marking: ear-tabs, flesh-marking, scissors clip (in the hair) and paint mark. In the light of practical experience in the use of these types of mark, they were rejected as unsuitable for the purpose in view, i.e., the identification of ownership of pigs after passing through the various factory processes to which the carcases are subjected before weighing. As regards the last part of the Question purchase by live weight might avoid the necessity for an identification mark of the type referred to but there are serious practical and administrative difficulties in the adoption of such a course.

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the hardship suffered by pork butchers under the present meat rationing scheme, in view of the fact that many members of the public are under the impression that they cannot buy pork from pork butchers unless they are registered with them; and whether he will take steps to make it clear that the public have complete freedom to buy their pork where they like and that they are not compelled to buy it from the butcher with whom they are registered?

I have received representations of the kind referred to and I have already taken the steps recommended in the latter part of the Question.

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the general discontent among farmers and pig producers because of the long delay in payment for pigs which are sold at collecting centres; and whether he will endeavour to expedite these payments?

I am aware that there have been initial difficulties involving delay in the payment for pigs. These are being remedied and there has recently been a considerable improvement.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether sub-lieutenants, Royal Naval Reserve, are treated with regard to promotion in the same way as sub-lieutenants, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve?

Under war-time regulations the conditions for promotion are identical for both reserves.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the approximate proportion of the country's capacity now employed on the production of export goods and services?

I regret that the material on which such an estimate could be based is not available.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether the British Overseas Airways Corporation is to be authorised to take over responsibility for Empire air communications?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Army motor cars and motor lorries are subject to the normal regulations regarding upkeep, licensing and speed?

Yes, Sir, except that, in war time. War Department vehicles are exempt from normal registration and licensing and carry identification numbers issued under War Office authority, and that, when necessary on special occasions, unit commanders may give authority, which must be in writing, to drivers of vehicles which are of a type restricted to a maximum speed to exceed that speed. Speed limits which apply to all vehicles have however, to be observed by drivers of War Department vehicles without exception.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will make, from such statistics as are conveniently available, a comparison between the proportion of night trunk calls completed on demand before and after the reintroduction of the 1s. night rate?

Precise statistics are not available, but prior to the reintroduction of the 1s. night rate about 90 per cent. of the night trunk calls would be completed on demand. The traffic has now more than doubled and about 60 per cent. of the calls are being completed on demand and about 80 per cent. within half an hour.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that delays of over one hour in obtaining night trunk telephone calls do frequently occur; that such delays are largely due to the encumbrance of the telephone service during the currency of the cheap night rate with long and unnecessary conversations; and whether, having regard to the fact that many persons, owing to their service or employment, have no access to telephones for private communications, except during the night period, he will reconsider his refusal to introduce a priority rate, which would enable urgent calls to be dealt with more promptly?

I am aware that under existing conditions there is sometimes heavy delay at night on calls on the busier trunk routes. These delays are not primarily due to prolonged conversations, since when there is heavy pressure on a route the duration of calls is restricted to six minutes, or if necessary even to three minutes. With regard to the question of a priority rate, I am sorry that I can add nothing to my reply to my hon. Friend on 14th March.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education what plans are being made for instructing housewives in suitable and economical cookery, having regard to the nature and quantity of foodstuffs available; and when is it hoped to put them into practice?

Plans for this instruction are dealt with in two recent circulars issued by the Board of which I am sending copies to my hon. Friend.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education what arrangements were made before 1st September, 1939, for the education of school children evacuated from the various centres?

The local education authorities of reception areas were responsible for making arrangements for the education of children evacuated to their areas. In May, 1939, the Board issued a circular, of which I am sending my hon. Friend a copy, giving guidance to authorities on the measures to be taken.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland, in view of the danger of the overstocking of dairy farms owing to the greatly increased areas which have been ploughed up and placed under cultivation, what steps it is proposed to take to deal with this situation and prevent unnecessary slaughtering of stock in consequence of the absence of adequate, grazing facilities?

In arranging for increased cultivation agricultural executive committees take into account the circumstances of each individual farm and while grazing facilities for dairy cattle will be less plentiful than formerly I have no reason to think they will be inadequate. I am, however, giving close attention to the question of improvement of grassland with a view to increasing stock-carrying capacity, and executive committees have been asked to facilitate where possible arrangements for the greater utilisation of lands used for sporting purposes for the grazing of cattle and sheep.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the bombing and machine-gunning of the East Dudgeon and Outer Dowsing lightships, he will now take steps to arm lightship crews for their own defence?

We have been forced to take measures to protect lighthouse vessels against the barbarous and cowardly attacks which the Germans are now making upon these beacons which are maintained for the mariners of all nations.

asked the Minister of Information whether he will publish a list showing what, at the present time, are the provincial offices of his Department; the number of persons employed in each such office; the names, salaries, and prior occupations of each person there employed, excluding clerical and messenger staff, respectively; how many were appointed through public advertisement or the central registry of the Ministry of Labour, respectively; and showing, in all

asked the Minister of Labour how many journalists have been other cases, by whom the appointments were made?

The information is as follows:drawn into the various Government Departments since the war from the central register; and how many employed in such departments have been otherwise recruited?

Since the outbreak of war 52 appointments of journalists drawn from the Central Register have been made to Government Departments. I am unable to say how many journalists at present employed in such Departments have been otherwise recruited.

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will investigate the need for an extension of the travelling facilities on the railways in the North Staffordshire area and, in particular, between Stafford, Stoke-on-Trent, the Stoke-Hanley loop line and Crewe, and inform the hon. Member for Stoke of the results of the investigation and of any action taken as soon as possible?

I am advised that the London Midland and Scottish Railway Company have not received any complaints of the inadequacy of the rail services to which the hon. Member refers, and that the present services, which are in many cases only slightly less frequent than in peace-time, are sufficient for the traffic which offers. If, however, the hon. Member will let me have further particulars of any improvement in the rail services which he considers to be necessary, I shall be glad to make inquiries.

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the difficulties caused in Greenock by large numbers of intending passengers endeavouring to board omnibuses at various stopping places; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?

Under Section 34 of the Greenock Corporation Order, 1923, the corporation have powers to make bye-laws requiring persons waiting to enter any of their omnibuses to wait in lines or queues. I cannot require the corporation to exercise these powers.

asked the Minister of Transport whether the Government will take further steps to ensure that the railway companies who have trucks standing empty in the sidings for many weeks shall take further steps to reorganise their methods with a view to ensuring a more speedy turn-round of wagons in connection with coal supplies throughout the country?

The railway companies are fully alive to the need for securing a speedy turn-round of wagons, but accumulations of empties are necessary to enable them promptly to meet the fluctuating demands of coal and other traffic. As a result of the introduction of the demurrage regulations the railways are now experiencing no difficulty in collecting sufficient empty wagons to meet the requirements of the collieries.