asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, whether the settlement with Iran involves a charge upon the British taxpayer for oil, transport or subvention; whether any estimate has been formed of the amount of this charge; and whether the Iranian Government is making any contribution to Great Britain for the cost of the protection provided by the army of occupation which must otherwise fall upon British or Indian funds?

As regards the first two parts of the Question, no final arrangement has yet been come to, but the considerations referred to by my right hon. Friend will be borne in mind. As regards the last part of the Question, the British Forces now in Persia do not constitute an army of occupation. No charge is being made upon the Persian Government for the cost of British or Soviet troops, but facilities are being provided by the Persian Government. As the British Forces do not constitute an army of occupation, what they require are facilities, not funds.

May we in future, expect the Government to call the Government of that country the Persian Government and not the Iranian Government?

I do not know that I wish to go into that problem now, but perhaps the right hon. Member knows that to some Persians to call their country Persia is like calling Britain Wessex.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he proposes to take over the Iranian post office which controls telegraph radio communications with Berlin and Rome?

the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the telegraph system and wireless stations in Persia are to be placed under the control of the British and Indian Governments?

It is not the policy of the Allies to intervene in the administration of Persia except where circumstances make our intervention necessary in the Allied interest. In those parts of the country now occupied by British troops, the military authorities have taken the necessary measures to ensure the safety of their communications.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the number of Germans who have been permitted to leave Iran in consideration of their diplomatic status; and also the number of British citizens with diplomatic status who were resident in Iran at the commencement of September, 1941?

As regards the first part of my hon. Friend's Question, the number was 24 men and 16 women and domestic staffs. The staff of the British Legation in Teheran and their families numbered about 60 on 1st September. In addition, there are the staffs of the various British Consulates in Persia which, including British Indian subjects, number about the same.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what representations have been made, since the war started, by His Majesty's Government to either the United States Government or the French Government concerning those of the International Brigade interned in France, some of whom are British subjects; and, further, whether any communications on this subject have been exchanged with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

No communications have passed between His Majesty's Government and either the United States Government, the French Government, or the Soviet Government on this subject since the outbreak of war. In view of the fact that before the end of the Civil War the Spanish Republican Government repatriated all those members of the International Brigade who were British subjects, there are, according to my information, no British members of the Brigade now interned in France.

Considering the fact that these International Brigaders fought for our cause, it is not possible to do something to induce the French to release these people, if only to go to Mexico?

I should not feel confident that representations of the British Government to Vichy would be likely to produce good results.

Is my right hon Friend aware that there are about 3,000 International Brigaders of all nationalities interned under very painful conditions in France? Could be possibly interest the United States Government or some other Government to intercede for these men?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will give an assurance that equality of treatment between our Allies in respect of membership of the Inter-allied Conference will be accorded without regard to the occupation partial or complete, of their territories by the enemy or precise diplomatic status, race, creed or colour?

The meetings of the Allied Governments have been convened to discuss special problems, and no standing conference with a fixed membership has been established. The points mentioned by my hon. Friend, together with other relevant considerations, will, of course, be borne in mind in connection with such meetings.

Do I understand that it is intended that in due course all our Allies shall take their place at the table?

I think my answer covers that.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why General Catroux, Commander-in-Chief of the Free French Forces in the Middle East, was not one of the signatories to the Armistice terms in Syria?

The Armistice terms were signed by General Wilson as Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Forces in Syria. General Catroux took part in the negotiations and was fully in accord with the agreement made.

In view of the very great part played by Free French Forces in the conquest of Syria, would it not have been a graceful act to have allowed their General to have signed the Armistice terms?

I do not think there is anything unusual in this. The Commander-in-Chief signed the Armistice terms.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) what is to be the status of the advisers to be appointed by His Majesty's Government to assist His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Ethiopia and to whom these advisers will be responsible;

(2) whether he has a statement to make concerning the restoration of diplomatic relations between His Majesty's' Government and His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Ethiopia?

The points to which my hon. Friend refers are dealt with in a draft agreement, which has been a matter of friendly discussion with the Emperor of Ethiopia and is now under consideration by His Majesty's Government. I have every hope that it will be signed in the near future.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that certain articles published recently contained the impression that we were trying to get a protectorate in Ethiopia, and the sooner that impression is dispelled the better?

I am not responsible for articles published but I can assure the hon. Member and the House that His Majesty's Government have no intention of pursuing any such policy.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the difficulties now being experienced by the Emperor of Abyssinia, he contemplates any change in the supervising administration of what used to be Italian East African territory, with a view to obtaining more sympathetic and progressive co-operation?

I would refer my right hon. Friend to the reply I have just given to my hon. Friend the Member for Derby (Mr. Noel-Baker). It is, and always has been, the policy of His Majesty's Government to render the aid and guidance for which the Emperor has asked. The best method of affording that aid, in the light of rapidly changing circumstances, is under constant review.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that putting the matter into the hands of the military at the present time is not the best method of securing helpful co-operation with the Emperor?

I am not sure that the right hon. Gentleman is fair to the military, but, as I tried to point out, we are at present engaged in negotiations, as a result of which I hope that agreement will be reached, including the appointment of diplomatic representatives.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will undertake that no oil or other fuel will be provided by ports and bunkerage stations under British control for shipping provided by the Italian Government to remove Italian subjects from East Africa; and whether he will insist that the Italian Government themselves provide the necessary fuel from their own resources?

The adoption of my hon. Friend's suggestion would render the proposed scheme for evacuating Italian civilians from Ethiopia unworkable, because the vessels required for the transport of these Italian subjects could not carry all the fuel needed for the double journey. It has, however, been stipulated by His Majesty's Government that the Italian Government will be required to repay the cost of all the fuel supplied to the repatriation ships at the time of delivery.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government are prepared to give any assistance towards medical aid for war victims in China?

Yes, Sir. His Majesty's Government have agreed to make a grant-in-aid of £50,000 to the British Fund for the Relief of Distress in China to meet expenditure on the maintenance of ambulance units for the treatment of sick and wounded soldiers and on relief activities generally in the war zones of Free China. Application will be made to Parliament in due course for the provision of the necessary funds, as required.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will inform the Finnish Government that this country will not hold itself morally responsible for the future of Finland if Finland does not come to a settlement with Russia?

Yes, Sir. His Majesty's Government have already addressed a warning to the Finnish Government through the Norwegian Minister at Hel-singfors to the effect that, if the Finnish Government persist in invading purely Russian territory, His Majesty's Government will be forced to treat Finland as an open enemy, not only while the war lasts but also when peace comes to be made.

Has any reply been received to that, and is there any time limit?

No reply has been received.

Can my right hon. Friend explain what meaning he attaches to the words about this country holding itself morally responsible for another one, and, if he attaches any meaning, can he give us an assurance that we will not hold ourselves morally responsible for the future of any other country?

That phrase was used in the Question. My answer was what I stated.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider imposing a time limit so that the matter will not drag on?

I should be grateful if my hon. Friend would leave me to handle these negotiations in my own way.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give any information concerning the conditions under which British airmen are interned in French North Africa?

With the exception of one or two men in hospital all the British airmen in French North Africa, including those who were formerly in French Morocco and Tunisia, are, I understand, now interned at Aumale in Algeria. The internment camp is inspected from time to time by a member of the staff of the United States Consulate-General at Algiers. The United States Consul General reports that the men are as well treated as can be expected, and the conditions of the camp appear to be good.

As disturbing reports reach this country, will my right hon. Friend personally cause inquiries to be made as to whether the camp is under the control of a French officer of suitable rank and whether dysentery is prevalent in the camp or not?

If my hon. and gallant Friend has some particulars, I will certainly go into them.

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many men and women have been invalided out of the Air Force or incapacitated on account of defective hearing?

Since the outbreak of war, 141 officers and airmen have been invalided from the Royal Air Force on account of defective hearing. No women serving with the Royal Air Force have been invalided for this cause.

Are arrangements being made to transfer these men to places where they can obtain useful training for employment, such as the National Institute for the Deaf?

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can make any announcement on the subject of Royal Air Force units serving with the Soviet Union; and, in particular, to what extent they have been placed under the Russian Command?

A wing of the Royal Air Force has been operating in Russia for several weeks, and up to Saturday last had destroyed 12 enemy aircraft, with the loss of only one of our fighters. The force is operating under the general command of the Commander of the Russian Air Forces on the Northern Front.

asked the Secretary of State for Air how administrative responsibilities, or duties, are divided between the two Under-Secretaries for Air?

The broad division of responsibility between the two Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State for Air in matters requiring Ministerial guidance is briefly as follows:—

My right hon. and gallant Friend the Member for the Isle of Thanet (Captain Balfour) assists in matters of policy arising in connection with Royal Air Force Training both at home and overseas, the Air Training Corps, and personnel administration generally. He continues to have a special responsibility to me for civil aviation policy and for the investigation and prevention of accidents. My Noble Friend who represents the Air Ministry in another place assists in matters of policy affecting works programmes, such as the selection and acquisition of sites and the availability of labour and material. He also has a special responsibility to me for welfare, education and public relations, and for questions in connection with the Meteorological Office and the Royal Observer Corps.

Have not both been found very useful?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for Air the number of occasions on which Rome has been bombed by the Royal Air Force?

No attacks have been made on Rome by the Royal Air Force.

Is it not a fact that the bombing of the belligerent capitals has held clown around those cities vast antiaircraft defences; and would not my right hon. Friend, therefore, reconsider whether it would not be desirable, at the appropriate time, to bomb some of the many military targets in Rome, in order that the anti-aircraft defences there should not be dispersed to the other targets which are more frequently visited?

I can assure my hon. Friend that our bombing policy is constantly under consideration and review. But in the meantime, I have nothing to add. to the statement made yesterday by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister.

Would the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the lives of airmen and machines are worth preserving, and should not be used in wild-goose chases?

Yes, Sir.

Does the Government's policy of bombing Rome if Cairo is bombed still hold good?

I have said that I have nothing to add to the statement which the Prime Minister made yesterday.

asked the Secretary of State for Air upon what conditions and for what term of years he has granted permission to an American civil air line company to operate an air line across Africa?

An Agreement has been entered into between His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom and Pan American Airways—Africa, Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pan American Airways Inc.) for the operation of an air transport service between West Africa and the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. The Agreement is necessary to enable Pan American Airways to discharge obligations entered into by them with the Government of the United States in connection with the ferrying of aircraft across the South Atlantic and across Africa. The Agreement will run for a period not exceeding one year from the start of the service or for such longer period as may be agreed between the parties.

In view of the fact that it is understood to be the policy of Pan American Airways to run an air line right around the world, will my right hon. Friend bear in mind in any further negotiations with this company or with the United States Government that there should be reciprocity for British air lines to fly over or call at United States territory?

I will certainly bear in mind the suggestion that my hon. Friend has made, but I am sure he will agree that we should be very grateful to the United States for the great help that has been given.

Will my right hon. Friend give an assurance that this Agreement will not be continued after the war?

I think it would be premature to discuss any such matter.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether all the brick-making machinery at Peterborough and Fletton is working to full capacity; what number of bricks are being made there each week; and whether there is a shortage of bricks at the present time in Great Britain?

The yards in the Peterborough area are working to full capacity having regard to the lighting restrictions. It would not be in the public interest to give the information asked for in the second part of the Question, but in reply to the last part of the Question I am glad to be able to inform the hon. Member that there is no shortage of bricks in Great Britain at the present time.

Are all the hand brick-makers in the country fully engaged?

I could not answer that.

If there is no shortage of bricks in this country, will my hon. Friend consider using bricks for runways on aerodromes?

Hall asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that some naval officers appear unaware of the established machinery for the ventilation of complaints by men from the lower deck; and whether, for the guidance of all concerned, he will cause the notices indicating the procedure to be followed prominently displayed in ships and shore establishments in peace-time to be circulated for screening throughout His Majesty's ships and establishments?

From time to time the attention of all officers and men is specially drawn to the regulations dealing with the proper procedure for the ventilation of complaints, and my right hon. Friend has had no reason to suppose that any officer is unaware of the established machinery for this purpose. The regulations direct that notices indicating the procedure to be followed are permanently to be displayed in an accessible part of His Majesty's ships and read every quarter to the ship's company. While no failures to display or read these notices have been reported, my right hon. Friend has felt it desirable to issue further orders calling attention to the regulation and to the necessity for its strict observance in His Majesty's ships and naval establishments.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that his announcement will cause a good deal of satisfaction in some of His Majesty's ships, where difficulties have arisen owing to the lack of such observance?

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty the number of applications received for entry under the Naval Cadet Scholarship Scheme this September; how many of these were from the usual preparatory schools, grant-aided secondary schools and other schools, respectively; whether the full number of scholarships have been awarded to the last two categories and to the son of a naval or ex-naval rating; and the extent to which these compared, educationally and physically, with the preparatory school candidates?

As the reply is rather long, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, have it circulated in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Will the hon. Gentleman be good enough to give some brief indication of what the Answer will be?

It is a little difficult to do that. I gather that what the hon. Member really wants to know is the number of scholarships awarded. I can assure him that to candidates from both grant-aided schools and other schools the full number of scholarships was awarded.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many men and women have been invalided out of the Navy or incapacitated on account of defective hearing?

During the period 1st September, 1939, to 31st March, 1941, 287 men were invalided out of the Navy on account of defective hearing. One member of the W.R.N.S. was also invalided for this reason. The full figures for recent months are not yet available.

Are steps being taken to find satisfactory employment for these men, who may be extremely useful?

I will make inquiries on that point and let my hon. Friend know.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many Scottish firms are on the tendering lists for woodwork; and of that number how many are situated in the district notified to him?

The total number in Scotland is 22, of which nine are situated within the area to which my hon. Friend refers. These firms contract direct to the Admiralty for woodwork. There are, in addition, sub-contractors, some of whom may well be important firms. I regret that the number of these sub-contractors cannot be readily ascertained.

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether he can make a statement on the position of the proposals for a new constitution for Jamaica; and what further action His Majesty's Government intend to take?

I have been asked to reply. The proposals for a reform of the constitution of Jamaica which were submitted to the Legislative Council have been rejected, and the Council have passed a resolution for a bi-cameral legislature, as in the scheme proposed by them in 1939. The question of future action is under consideration and no decision has yet been taken.

Will my hon. Friend make representations along the lines that the Legislative Council decision is an entirely unrepresentative one, and that it in no way represents the general feeling of the people of Jamaica?

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the injury to the British cause arising from the continued detention of W. Domingo, he can yet make any report on the matter; whether Miss Muriel Lester was detained by order of the Governor; and whether he approves the policy of the Governor of treating with hostility any progressive political or religious spokesman who publicly discusses West Indian affairs?

As regards the first part of the Question, my Noble Friend has nothing to add to the statement made in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend on 10th September, except that the Governor has since reported that Mr. Domingo has exercised his right to make an objection to the Advisory Committee and that his case is in process of being heard. The answer to the second part of the Question is in the affirmative. As regards the last part of the Question, my Noble Friend is quite unable to accept the suggested criticism of the action taken by the Governor of Jamaica and the Governor of Trinidad in these two cases.

Is my hon. Friend aware that no one has been detained by the Governor except people of progressive tendency, and will he expedite further information regarding the most unfortunate detention of Mr. Domingo?

If my hon. Friend would care to see me afterwards, I think he might realise the situation a little more fully than he does at present.

Is it not the fact that Mr. Domingo was suspected not only by the British authorities but by the authorities in the United States of America of intending to cause disaffection in the construction of the naval and air bases, and will my Noble Friend the Colonial Secretary make it quite plain that he intends to support our Government in any reasonable action they may take to deal with subversive action against the Imperial well-being?

Is it not a fact that Mr. Domingo has constantly given his whole-hearted support to the British war effort, both in America and in other Colonies that he has visited?

As this man has appealed and his case is being heard, I think we had better wait until the appeal has been heard.

Has not the hon. Gentleman who addressed a Question to my hon. Friend a moment ago prejudged the case by his statement?

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether steps are being taken in the Gold Coast to reorganise local government and develop responsible municipal authorities?

These questions which, owing to local circumstances, present a difficult and complex problem, have been engaging the attention of the Gold Coast Government for some time. The new Governor of the Gold Coast will be assuming his duties shortly, and these matters will be considered by him with a view to his submitting recommendations.

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether a White Paper will be published setting out the development programmes submitted by the respective Governments for consideration under the Colonial Development and Welfare Act, 1940?

My Noble Friend will bear my hon. Friend's suggestion in mind, but he would prefer to defer a decision on it. In any event, however, an annual return of schemes made under the Colonial Development and Welfare Act will be laid before Parliament in accordance with Section 1 (4) of the Act.

Will my hon. Friend make representations that we really want to know what schemes are submitted by the respective Governments and not necessarily only the schemes submitted to this House for the necessary finance?

I appreciate what my hon. Friend has in mind, and I will convey that suggestion to my Noble Friend.

When is the report likely to be made?

It is impossible to give that information at the moment.

Harvey asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to a demand in Nigeria for the withdrawal of the prohibition of the purchase for export and removal of palm kernels; and whether the scheme for Governmental purchase of palm kernels, which has been agreed to for the French Cameroons, can be applied also to Nigeria?

The prohibition of the purchase for export of palm kernels in certain areas of Nigeria has been suspended since 6th May, and for the present the whole exportable supply is being bought on behalf of the Ministry of Food.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies the price paid to African coffee growers for their coffee, under the coffee marketing scheme, as compared with the former prevailing price in Kenya and Tanganyika; and whether the interests of the African native growers are represented in any way on the Board of Control?

My Noble Friend has not yet received any information regarding the prices being paid to African coffee growers for the season which has just opened. The Government representation on the Board can be relied upon to ensure that the interests of the native producers are amply safeguarded.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Franchise Commission appointed in British Guiana to advise on the suffrage and the qualifications for election to membership of the Legislative Council does not adequately represent all sections of the population and is not likely to ensure an impartial decision on the question of the present limited franchise; and whether he will see that the Commission is so constituted that its findings may merit public confidence?

The Commission was appointed in May last, and my Noble Friend has not received any representations regarding its composition. There are 23 members, of whom 10 are elected members of the Legislative Council. The remainder, who are all unofficials, include the Presidents of two of the local Labour Unions and the President of the Village Chairmen's Conference of the Colony.

Will my hon. Friend indicate to his Noble Friend that the distrust of this Commission is due to the fact that it is chaired and largely dominated by those who worked the previous Constitution, and that their sympathies are looked upon as being against a proper democratic change?

I will convey that to my Noble Friend, but these people are appointed to these various committees and village councils, and from that it is taken that they have the full confidence of the people.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport why, in view of the necessity for national economy, two traffic direction posts were placed at the intersection of Harefield Road and Park Road, Bucks, a junction which has been free from accidents; and why were two posts erected where one only would have been sufficient?

I am obliged to my hon. Friend for drawing my attention to this. A mistake was made and is being rectified.

Will my right hon. and gallant Friend consider removing the thousands of direction posts which serve no useful purpose and arc a menace to pedestrians?

That seems to be rather a larger question.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether it is the intention of the Government to encourage the work on the Western Avenue to by-pass Uxbridge; and, in view of the fact that practically no work has been done on this job during the last two years, whether they will get ahead with it and get it finished or stop the present intermittent work altogether, thereby releasing men, material and machinery for war purposes?

It is still hoped to complete the extension of the Western Avenue, and the work is proceeding as quickly as circumstances permit.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (1), whether he will seek the co-operation of the Ministry of Information and the Board of Education to run a propaganda campaign this winter with the object of reducing the number of casualties on the roads;

(2) what steps he is taking to reduce the number of accidents on the roads?

In war-time the measures that can be taken, whether by regulation or otherwise, to reduce road accidents are necessarily limited. The problem can only effectively be tackled with the full co-operation of all road users drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. We have accordingly arranged for an intensive road safety campaign to be undertaken by the Ministry of Information during the coming winter. This will make use of Press, Broadcasting and Film. The Board of Education are arranging for special attention to be given to the instruction of school-children in road safety questions. The Home Secretary has assured us that the police will do their utmost to ensure such traffic supervision as is possible under present conditions. With the help of the Committee of which I informed the House during the Debate on the Adjournment before the Recess, I am examining a number of suggestions in order that every practicable step may be taken to reduce road accidents.

While I thank my right hon. and gallant Friend for that reply, will he do everything he can to bring home to the public the appalling number of road accidents in war-time?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport by what percentage the number of deaths and injuries to persons on the roads of Great Britain in 1940 exceeded the total casualties, excluding prisoners of war, to the British Expeditionary Force in 1939–1940; and whether the deaths and injuries so far in 1941 have exceeded those of 1940, and by how much?

The casualty figures of the British Expeditionary Force in 1939–40 have not been published. We have not got particulars of the number of injured during 1940 in road accidents. The number of deaths resulting from road accidents in the eight months January-August, 1941, exceeded those in the same period of 1940 by 1,465.

What was the percentage increase over the previous year?

I am afraid I did not work that out, and I cannot do so on the spur of the moment.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, having regard to the urgent necessity in the national interest of maintaining road transport in a state of efficiency, he can assure the House that there is adequate skilled labour available for the proper servicing and repairing of essential road transport, and does he intend to publish the recent Report or a summary of the Report of the Motor Vehicle Maintenance Advisory Committee?

We are taking all practicable steps to ensure that adequate and suitable labour is available for the maintenance of essential road vehicles. A statement on the main recommendations of the Report of the Motor Vehicle Maintenance Advisory Committee and of the action being taken was published on 19th September.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he will give directions that derelict lines of railway shall either be reopened for traffic or dismantled, so that the rails can be put to some useful purpose in the war effort?

The Railway Executive Committee has already taken action to ensure that appropriate use is made of any tracks no longer required for traffic purposes.

Does the same thing apply to tramway lines in streets?

The old tramway tracks are being taken up as labour is available to do so, and also to replace the road surface afterwards.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, in view of the shortage of soft fruit, he will consider advising local authorities and others concerned not to trim hedges and cut down the blackberry bushes until the fruit has been gathered?

A Press notice was issued to farmers on 26th August asking farmers to do their best to defer clipping hedges until the blackberries have been gathered. It has not been thought necessary to supplement this by a further notice to local authorities.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food on what basis, as concerns price and priority and other details, food supplies are allotted to British Restaurants and other public centres as compared with private caterers?

British Restaurants and other community meal centres are granted allowances of rationed foods in common with all other catering establishments on the basis of the number of meals they serve. They do not enjoy any privileged position in regard to buying facilities. Many of the British Restaurants have been set up for the purpose of feeding workers for whom canteen provision in their works is not practicable, and the British Restaurant as well as the works canteen has been given priority in the supply of certain manufactured articles and other un-rationed foods of which stocks are short.

Seeing that it is very difficult to follow this matter in this way, can my right hon. and gallant Friend say that these private caterers are really being given a fair deal as compared with municipal and other restaurants?

Certainly, taking like with like, they are. Where in effect British Restaurants deal with large numbers of workpeople it is because these cannot yet be accommodated in other establishments or even in works canteens.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he can give any information in connection with the food control man at Richmond who was charged with having £2 worth of meat in his motorcar?

The person referred to was at the time a member of the Richmond food control committee, and the manager of a butcher's shop. He was convicted on 15th September of attempting to supply unlawfully seven joints of meat to his own household at a place in Wiltshire, and was fined £50 and ordered to pay 15 guineas costs.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he can given any information in connection with a London firm selling for 3s. a pound milk substitute which is made up of flour, salt and baking powder; and what action he intends to take about the matter?

My Department purchased over the counter a sample of the product to which my hon. Friend refers, and has had it analysed. It was found to consist mainly of the materials mentioned in the Question. My Noble Friend is giving urgent consideration to the steps to be taken to protect the public against the sale of food substitutes of this kind.

Can the Minister in any way make it known to this class of people that I and many other Members of this House will keep on chasing them until they put an end to this business?

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that these abuses and malpractices have been publicised in the Press for the last three, four or live weeks, and how long will it take before a decision is reached and preventive action taken?

My hon. Friend will appreciate that analyses of these products take a considerable time in some cases, and the fact that they are food substitutes does not in itself make them harmful. What is of serious import is the exploitation of the public with regard to price, and that is one of the things in regard to which we can protect the public, and we will do that as soon as we can.

When may we expect action?

Very shortly.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether his attention has been drawn to the fine of £20 imposed upon a Glasgow firm at a court in Leeds for a misleading advertisement furthering the sale of a milk substitute for ice-cream; to the allegation that it consisted of 96 per cent. wheat flour and 4 per cent. milk sugar, and sold at 2s. 9d. per pound, although the cost of flour was only about 1d. per pound; and whether he will further restrain such firms?

The answer to the first and second parts of the Question is "Yes, Sir." With regard to the last part, as I have already informed my hon. Friend the Member for Plaistow (Mr. Thome), my Noble Friend is giving urgent consideration to the steps to be taken to protect the public from the sale of food substitutes of this kind.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will arrange for supplies of oranges to be made specially available to invalids during the children's priority period or immediately that period comes to an end; and whether he will recognise the special requirements of tuberculosis patients?

The Ministry's medical advisers are of the opinion that provided adequate supplies of vitamin C are available there is no necessity to provide a special supply of oranges for anyone suffering from any type of disease or injury, and I regret that I cannot see my way to adopting my hon. Friend's suggestions.

But a medical analysis does not satisfy the craving of an invalid who would be greatly benefited if the right hon. and gallant Gentleman could act on the suggestion contained in my Question.

Naturally, we like to do what we can, but we are bound to take note of the advice of our medical people on this matter, and we are assured by them that it is possible, even in simple forms, to give them vitamin C.

What is meant by vitamin C?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether all children of school age are to be given priority claim to an equal minimum supply of fresh milk whether or not they attend a school where the State-subsidised Milk in Schools Scheme is operating; and will he explain the arrangements which are to apply to children not attending such schools?

Under the scheme for controlling the distribution of liquid milk children not attending school will be entitled to a priority of 3½ pints a week after six years of age but previous to this will be eligible for a pint a day of free or cheap milk under the National Milk Scheme. For children attending school the same priority will be given to the supply of milk for consumption at school whether the milk is purchased under the Milk in Schools Scheme or not. Circulars fully describing the arrangements have been issued by the Board of Education, and I have arranged for copies of these to be sent to my hon. Friend.

Will retailers have guaranteed units of supply, in accordance with registration and age groups, for allocation?

I think I can give that assurance. I know there was trouble once or twice last year, but I do not think it will occur this year.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food the present annual cost of his staff needed to ensure the working of the egg distribution scheme; and what is the estimated loss hitherto under the scheme of imported eggs which have become rotten before reaching the consumer at all. or in an edible form?

The present estimated annual cost of the Ministry's staff engaged on eggs is £145,000. In addition to the work in connection with the egg distribution scheme, this staff also deals with the importation and distribution of frozen eggs and dried and processed eggs. Since the introduction of the egg scheme the total allowances made in respect of bad imported eggs amount to £98,154, representing 5.3 per cent. on U.S.A. eggs; 5.8 per cent. on Canadian eggs and 1.75 per cent. on Eire eggs.

Is not £145,000 a very high price to pay for three doubtful eggs per month?

At any rate 45,000,000 people are getting these three doubtful eggs per month. If my hon. Friend will be good enough to work out the figures, he will find that the cost is a small proportion of a penny per head.

Would it not be much cheaper to import the feeding-stuffs which are necessary? Would it not be much more efficient and would we not possibly get some fresher eggs?

Of course, that has occurred to us, but there is very great doubt as to whether it is not better to import eggs rather than feeding-stuffs. My hon. Friend is assuming that if we did import more feeding-stuffs, they would of necessity go to poultry keepers, but that is not by any means so. We weighed up the advantages of importing this commodity or that, and we came to the conclusion that it is better to import the finished article.

Might not the Ministry come down on the side of fresh eggs rather than bad eggs?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether the experience of the administration of the egg control scheme to date confirms the estimated expenditure previously announced?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he can make any statement as to the numbers of poultry stocks now and six months ago; and whether, to avoid reductions of stocks next year, he will consider increasing the importation of feeding-stuffs and decreasing the importation of foreign eggs?

Any comparison of poultry stocks between now and six months ago is misleading owing to the marked seasonal variation in numbers, but the stocks of England and Wales have declined by approximately 30 per cent. during the period mentioned. My noble Friend is not prepared to decrease the importation of foreign eggs and the maximum possible quantity of animal feeding-stuffs is being and will continue to be brought into this country having regard to the demands on shipping space.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will take steps to have published in the Press and by broadcasting the prices at which market-garden produce, and other foodstuffs liable to rapid variation in price, are being sold in the markets, in order that housewives may have information enabling them to judge the fairness of the prices asked by retailers?

I assume that my hon. Friend has perishable goods such as vegetables and fruit primarily in mind. The market prices of many of these commodities are already published in the Press, but I fear that it would not be practicable to broadcast this information since the prices of perishable goods naturally vary in different markets in different parts of the country.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, in view of increased strain imposed on public transport drivers and con- ductors, he will consider granting to them the extra rations already granted to some workers?

The special ration of cheese is granted solely to meet the needs of certain categories of workers who require to take suitable food with them to their work and who are unable to make use of canteen facilities. I do not feel, therefore, that the concession can be given to the drivers and conductors in question. The possibility of improving the provision of food supplies for the men in question while they are at work is, however, receiving close attention.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider placing this category of workers on the list of priority workers?

If the hon. Gentleman will be good enough to wait until the next Sitting Day, I shall be able to give him an answer.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food the number of small shopkeepers in the whole country from whom licences to trade with registered customers have been withdrawn; and how many of these were in Bournemouth?

Statistics up to date show that supplies of one or more rationed foods were no longer being made available to 13,343 retailers in the United Kingdom; of these three are in the Bournemouth Food Control Committee area.

Is not that position very unsatisfactory, in view of what we were led to expect by the Minister when the question was raised before? Would it not be better to revert to the old position where the Ministry licensed the smaller retailer automatically unless there was a case against him? At the moment they only licence him when he can show hardship, which is very unsatisfactory.

My hon. Friend will remember that when I spoke about this matter some time ago I said that the main purpose was not to encourage people in this kind of business if they were not there for legitimate trade purposes. When he says that the situation is not satisfactory that may mean not satisfactory either way. It may well mean that we are getting rid of something which might well have been got rid of before. So far as Bournemouth is concerned, I think that three out of the whole area is extremely satisfactory from my hon. Friend's point of view. Moreover, he knows that it is possible for people who have complaints to appeal and that and this withdrawal of rationed foodstuffs may be in respect of one rationed commodity or more.

While recognising that nobody wants to support people who are abusing the control of food rationing, will it not be possible to revert to the old system of licensing a retailer unless there is a case against him? At present he is not licenced unless he can show hardship.

If my hon. Friend will look into the three cases in his constituency and let me have his views on them, it might help a very great deal.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply whether, in view of the fact that sufficient waste could be collected to operate paper-mills at an appreciably higher percentage, steps will be taken to put more drive into the collection of waste paper?

During the past few months additional steps have been taken to stimulate the collection of waste paper by the organisation of county salvage drives and by the increased enlistment of the help of voluntary organisations. In addition, widespread support is being given to the salvage campaign by the Press throughout the country.

What has been the result?

Very satisfactory, but we still want additional effort.

Will my hon. Friend try to stop the sending of circulars to Members of Parliament and save a little money that way?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (1) what annual tonnage of shipping space is being employed for the importation from America of calcium carbide used for the production of acetylene gas for oxygen cutting and welding;

(2) what steps have been taken to encourage the use of home-produced substitute gases available; and whether any recommendations by the Ministry have been opposed by carbide and acetylene interests;

(3) in view of the large amount of carbide imports what further steps will be taken to encourage the use of home-produced alternatives; is any factory for the production of calcium carbide for acetylene gas generation contemplated or under construction in this country; and, if so, when will it be in production, and what percentage of our total requirements will it produce?

The substitute gases available are of limited application. The most important is coal gas and detailed advice has been given twice this year to using industries on its method of application, and they have been urged to use it wherever practicable. This advice is, I am glad to say, widely followed. Other substitute gases are in limited supply. I have no reason to suppose that the use of substitute gases has been limited by opposition from any interests concerned in carbide and acetylene. There is a factory in this country for the production of calcium carbide and another is in course of erection, but it would not be in the public interest to give particulars of home output or of imports.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply whether any recent contracts have been placed on a cost-plus-percentage basis; and whether he can give an assurance that all future contracts will be made either at a fixed price or on a cost-plus-fixed-profit basis?

During the four weeks ended 16th September, 1941, two contracts were placed on the basis of payment to the contractor of actual ascertained cost plus a percentage of the cost as profit. This type of contract has only been made because it was not possible to estimate the extent or cost of the work in advance.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply whether his attention has been called to the large numbers of advertising hoardings and billboards no longer required for the purposes for which they were erected, which are, in many cases, eye-sores and possible sources of danger in case of conflagration caused by enemy action; and whether he will look into the possibility of removing them and using the timber for more immediately useful purposes?

The question of recovering timber from hoardings has repeatedly been considered but in view of the poor condition of most of the timber and of the heavy wastage involved in recovering it, the employment of labour for this purpose could not be justified in present conditions.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (1) whether he is satisfied with the rate and volume of production of new spare parts and tyres for road transport vehicles? (2) whether the demand for spare and replacement parts and tyres exceeds the available supply; what steps he is taking, cither to reduce the demand or increase the supply; and what steps have been taken or are contemplated for reclaiming and reconditioning used spare parts?

I am satisfied that the action taken by the Ministry of Supply is resulting in a supply of spare parts sufficient to meet the requirements of essential civil transport. Greatly increased allocations of raw materials and productive capacity have been made for this purpose. As regards the supply of tyres, a scheme has been introduced in conjunction with the Ministry of War Transport, for ensuring that tyres are available for essential vehicles. This scheme is working smoothly. The Ministry of Supply, has also directed vehicle manufacturers to arrange for reclaiming and reconditioning used spare parts wherever practicable.

Is my right hon. Friend now satisfied that the production of spare parts is of such volume that civilian transport is now being turned out on repair quicker than it has been previously?

Yes, Sir. I am not wholly satisfied with the position, but there has been a very great improvement since the beginning of this scheme, and I am confident it will meet all needs.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply what is the full nature of the instructions issued to local authorities in respect of the requisitioning of iron and steel railings for scrap purposes?

Local authorities in England and Wales were asked on nth September to complete a survey of the railings in their areas within six weeks and to schedule those which in their view were unnecessary. They have been asked to interpret "unnecessary" so as to exclude from scheduling railings which in their opinion serve a useful function and which, if removed, would require to be replaced by some other material. In particular, railings required for safety purposes or to prevent cattle straying, and railings of historic interest or special artistic merit will not be scheduled. The requisition of railings will commence as soon as possible after these schedules have been received. The scheme will be extended to Scotland shortly, as soon as the necessary arrangements are completed. A copy of the instructions to local authorities is being placed in the Library of the House.

Am I to understand that when the survey is made it is intended to requisition all the railings, and is the Minister aware that not long ago a statement was made that all the iron from wrecked houses was not required for blast furnace and steel-making purposes?

The first step is to make a schedule, and the second step is to requisition the railings as and when they may be needed, and to take them stage by stage for the purposes of iron and steel manufacture.

Is it intended to take the large girders and so on in parts of London and other parts of the country where houses have been bombed?

They are being moved at a very satisfactory rate. I think the figure given me was that about 8,000 tons were moved in the course of last week.

asked the Minister of Information whether he has now assumed full responsibility for all the activities of the British Broadcasting Corporation in so far as they are connected with the war effort?

asked the Minister of Information whether any single Minister or body now exercises control over the British Broadcasting Corporation; who is responsible for the selection of political speakers, other than Ministers, over the microphone; whether the Parliamentary reports are edited or censored or Ministerially approved, and, if so, by whom; and to what extent the Governors now exercise authority?

The B.B.C. accepts the direction of the Ministry of Information in all matters affecting the national effort, except that, as the Prime Minister has stated in the House, propaganda to enemy and enemy-occupied territories is now controlled by a joint Ministerial Committee working through an executive body. Political speakers do not broadcast except with the approval of the Ministry of Information. The B.B.C.'s Parliamentary reports are edited by their news staff under the general supervision of the Ministry. The Board of Governors continue to exercise authority over the Corporation's affairs within the limitations that I have stated.

Does that mean, shortly, that the Governors of the B.B.C. are no longer responsible for any part of the B.B.C.'s activities connected with the war? Is that the result of the Minister's answer?

I think the hon. Member may assume that is what is intended by my answer.

On a point of Order. Is it quite satisfactory for the Minister to answer two Questions, one of which is of an omnibus character and lends itself to a similar reply, and the other of which is of a precise character calling for a precise answer? May I have a precise answer to that part of my Question which asks whether Parliamentary reports are edited or censored or Ministerially approved, and if so, by whom?

As was stated in my answer, these reports are edited by the news staff of the B.B.C. under the general supervision of the Ministry of Information.

Is not that just the vague type of answer of which I was respectfully complaining? Are they Ministerially approved, and if so, by whom?

We have a link with the B.B.C, and if there is anything which our officer thinks is wrong about the way in which the news is presented, he draws the attention of the Ministry of Information to it, and in that way we exercise supervision.