asked the Secretary of State for Air how many fighter aeroplanes we had in reserve at the conclusion of the Battle of Britain?

My hon. Friend will not expect me to give a detailed answer to this Question, but I can assure him that an appreciable reserve of fighter aircraft was available for immediate action at the conclusion of the Battle of Britain.

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the danger and mischief that are created by such a person as an air commodore who opened a War Weapons Week and declared that we had only nine and that he had good reason for saying so? That is the actual claim he made. Why was publicity given to it?

My hon. Friend's Question brought this speech to my notice, and I made inquiries about it.

Will the Minister take disciplinary action?

What was the result of the inquiry?

I have only just made the inquiry.

Do I understand that there is no organisation in the Air Ministry which reads the Press to find out what has been said?

No doubt there is.

Will disciplinary action be taken against this officer?

We must await the result of the inquiry.

Is there not far too much publicity given to facts which should be kept secret?

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many aircraft that could have been used operationally to attack the "Scharnhorst" and "Gneisenau," on 12th February, 1942, were detained at or near their stations owing to pre-arranged inspections by senior officers of the Royal Air Force?

None, Sir.

Would the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that any Force with such a splendid fighting spirit as the Royal Air Force is subject to serious misunderstanding if these inspections are allowed to go on when a station feels it might be doing operational duties? Will he have the matter carefully investigated to see whether these inspections ought to be allowed to proceed on these days?

This was not an actual inspection. The case to which the hon. Gentleman refers was the presentation of colours to the Belgian Squadron, and it was a ceremony affecting one of our Allied Air Forces.

Does not the Minister virtually admit that it is possible that some of these aircraft might have been used in the pursuit of these ships?

I am glad the hon. Gentleman has raised that point, because I do not admit that at all. The squadrons which were stationed at that particular aerodrome were among the first to take off in the operations.

Is it not a fact that the "Scharnhorst" and the "Gneisenau" could, and should, have been sunk by the Royal Air Force?

asked the Secretary of State for Air the present policy of the Air Ministry in regard to disclosing the identity of officers and airmen who render distinguished service against the enemy?

The broad policy is to restrict publication of the names of personnel who have rendered distinguished service to those receiving an award of a decoration or a "Mention in Despatches." Exceptions can be made in the case of leaders of operations or of captains of aircraft and other aircrew concerned in outstanding incidents.

asked the Secretary of State for Air when it is proposed to publish a brochure dealing with the achievements and activities of Balloon Command?

The story of Balloon Command will form part of a booklet on the work of balloons, guns and searchlights, in the air defence of Great Britain which is being prepared jointly by the War Office and Air Ministry. I hope that it may be possible to issue the booklet at an early date.

Will it deal with the work of some of the wing commanders of that section?

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he proposes to follow the example of the Army Council and cause a survey to be made of the qualifications of all officers of the General Duties Branch of the rank of group captain and below who have reached the age of 45?

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether, with a view to increasing the efficiency and vigour of Royal Air Force administration, he will order a general review similar to that recently instituted by an Army Council Instruction on the efficiency and alertness of officers over the age of 45 years; and what provisions at present exist for the retirement of officers of various ranks on reaching any specific age and state the age applicable to each rank?

There is already in existence in the Royal Air Force a procedure for ensuring that the capabilities of officers, whatever their age or rank, are kept under constant review. Reports are rendered on them either annually or specially as circumstances may require and those whose services are not satisfactory are placed on the retired list or called upon to relinquish their commissions. There have, in fact, been a number of retirements and resignations of officers of all ranks from the highest to the lowest, and accordingly, I see no need for a special review of the kind suggested. The compulsory retiring ages of regular officers in the various branches of the Service are set out in detail in King's Regulations and Air Council Instructions. Regular officers reaching their retiring ages during the war may be retained on the active list at the discretion of the Air Council.

If these officers are retired compulsorily and not under the age limit, have they a right of appeal?

Not if they are retired because there is no employment available for them, but if there was any suggestion affecting their professional honour, they would have the right of appeal.

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production what disciplinary action, apart from the fine in the police court, has been taken in regard to the case of Mills and Fern in a West Midland town, with which he is acquainted?

These two youths have been dismissed for grave misconduct.

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production the value of the work undertaken by Sir Alexander Gibb and Partners for his Department during the year ended 31st December, 1941, or convenient date, and the fees paid or credited to them during the same period?

The work carried out in 1941 under this firm's supervision amounted to £326,000. In the same period they received £1,579 as fees.

Do these fees include all expenses incurred by the engineers at the site, or were they included in the cost of works?

I would like notice of that.

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he has considered communications received from the production side of the management and from the workers in an aircraft factory whose name has been supplied to him; and whether he has been able to take steps to secure the reinstatement of the individual referred to in these communications pending an inquiry into the circumstances of his dismissal?

We have been informed by the managing firm that they are dispensing with the services of the gentleman referred to in consequence of a reorganisation designed to give increased output at this and another factory under the same management. Representations from members of the staff have been received, but, after careful consideration, my right hon. Friend sees no reason to question the judgment of the managing firm.

In view of the fact that this man retained the confidence of the production managers in the works, do the Government propose to take any steps to satisfy these men that his dismissal was in the interests of production and not in the financial interests of Rootes Securities?

My hon. Friend's Question does not raise any issue of the financial structure of the firm, but he can take my word for it that I have interviewed the management, and have seen representatives of the executive staff and everybody connected with this case, and I am satisfied that the matter should remain where it is.

In view of the fact that this action has been responsible for a devastating fall in morale and output in this factory, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter again at the earliest possible moment.

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether, after his visit to the North-West area, he can report satisfactory consultations; whether he is satisfied with co-operation of management and men; and will he see that future complaints can be dealt with locally instead of deputations having to come to London?

My right hon. Friend had satisfactory consultations with all concerned during his recent tour of factories in the North-West area. He is satisfied that managements and work-people are doing their best to overcome the different and difficult problems in each of the factories visited by him. In regard to the last part of the Question, he considers that it is always better for these matters to be dealt with locally.

In order to avoid these matters being raised constantly on the Floor of the House, will the Minister arrange for Members of Parliament from the localities concerned to be allowed to be present to hear what happens?

I think that Supplementary Question raises a matter which goes outside the realm of my Department. My hon. Friend will have heard the statement in my reply that my right hon. Friend considers it is always better for these matters to be dealt with locally.

Does my hon. Friend think that, in their representative capacity, the Members of Parliament from any particular city are deaf, dumb, and blind?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he is aware of the serious damage which is being sustained to property in Ealing and district through the careless manner in which railings are being uprooted; that they are being removed merely by the use of sledge-hammers in unskilled hands; and, in view of this, will he consider making it compulsory for railings to be removed by acetylene burners so far as practicable, and in all other cases that contracting by the ton should be dispensed with, and replaced by contracting on a time basis?

I am aware that damage has been done, in Ealing and elsewhere, and that in some cases this has been due to careless or unskilled workmanship. In all such cases the contractor is required to make good the damage; but there is inevitably some delay before this can be done. I regret that the burning off of railings is not practicable as a general rule, as the available supplies of gas and acetylene burners are urgently needed for war work of great importance. Various bases of contracting have been considered, but I am satisfied that the alternative of carrying out this work by prime cost contracts should not be adopted.

Is my hon. Friend aware that as long as contracts on the present basis are continued, the contractors' only interest will be to collect the maximum amount of railings in the minimum amount of time, and that householders and property owners will have to suffer as a result; and will he not consider a more equitable means for the removal of railings?

The question of other forms of contracts has been considered, but the necessity and urgency of getting this metal has been the condition which has decided in favour of these contracts. I hope that at a not too far distant date the property will be restored, I hope to the satisfaction of the owners.

Will not the Department make representations to the contractors that they should not destroy property as carelessly as they are doing at the present time, when the removal of a few shillings' worth of railings causes many pounds' worth of damage?

That representation has been made to them, and their hearts have been appealed to, but some of them are rather stubborn.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in the Ealing district gates of artistic value are taken away without the owner being given any opportunity to appeal?

That is not true. Notice has been given and published that anyone who wants to make an appeal against the taking of any railings or gates of artistic or historic merit can do so.

Has the hon. Gentleman read the letter which I sent to him, giving a case of gates valued at £12 being smashed, without any such opportunity being given, to obtain scrap valued at 1s 1¼d.?

I have read the letter and replied to it, and I hope the hon. Member will be satisfied with the reply.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he will instruct the local authorities, particularly in London, not to remove iron railings guarding the basements in front of houses, in view of the serious danger of accidents to pedestrians in the black-out and to children at all times?

The direction to local authorities clearly states that no railings should be scheduled that are required for the safety of the public. If any railings to basement areas have been removed in consequence of undetected errors in scheduling, alternative protection is being provided.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings how many Government building contracts have been given to Richard Costain, Limited; and what is the total amount involved?

During the past 12 months, 20 contracts to the total value of approximately £1,560,000 have been let by Government Departments to Richard Costain, Limited. Four of these to the value of approximately £555,000 were let by the Ministry of Works.

Is the work measured, and are scheduled rates admitted?

Three of the contracts were competitive. I cannot give any details.

Were scheduled rates admitted, and was payment based on the measurement of those scheduled rates when the contract was completed?

I should want notice of that Question.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings, with regard to the firm of Howard and Souster, architects, now engaged upon Government contracts, what, to date, is the total sum agreed to be paid to them as fees for professional work in connection with these contracts?

The total sum agreed to be paid, to date, to the firm for professional services in connection with the Commission held by the firm of Howard and Souster with my Department, is approximately £8,100. I am obtaining informa- tion regarding work which the firm may have in hand for other Government Departments and will inform my hon. Friend.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether, in view of the large amount of barbed wire being placed in and around the London parks and, in view of the danger therefrom to pedestrians during the black-out period, he will arrange to have plain guard wires in suitable positions?

In view of the necessity for conserving stocks of metal, I regret that I am unable to adopt the hon. and gallant Member's suggestion. I am not aware of any accidents to pedestrians owing to barbed wire during the blackout hours, but, if the hon. and gallant Member has any particular danger points in mind, I will consider the desirability of installing suitable warning lights.

Has the Minister considered the effect on courting couples when the weather gets better?

What is the sense in putting this barbed wire round spaces which have been made open?

I think my previous answer covers that question.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether his Department possesses any statistics regarding the number of building trade operatives, skilled and unskilled, still employed upon non-essential work; and are there any building trade operatives unoccupied, but standing by, ready to make repairs in the event of serious enemy action?

Continuous action is taken through the operation of the Civil Building Licensing Control, and in other ways, to ensure, as far as possible, that no building and civil engineering work is carried out which is not of an essential character. I have no statistics to indicate the number of workers still so employed, but a close investigation is now being made. With regard to the second part of the Question, there are no building trade operatives kept unoccupied in order to be available to do urgent air damage repair work.

Is my hon. Friend aware that if one goes by almost any of these bombed places, one sees men messing about trying to straighten up these places, and does he know how many men are needed on work essential for carrying on the war which is still delayed at the present time?

I can assure the hon. Member that the question of the building labour and building needs of the country is under very keen review every day, and as far as we are concerned, every economy is exercised in the employment of labour.

Is my hon. Friend aware that if he takes a walk from the House to Oxford Circus, he will see at least 100 men doing literally nothing at the present time?

What about the men sitting here and doing nothing?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether, in view of the diminishing amount of building for which his Department is responsible, there is a proportionate reduction in his staff; and whether he can give figures showing the number engaged to-day and a year ago?

During the expansion of the building programme the Ministry avoided large increases in staff by utilising to a considerable extent the services, on a commission basis, of firms in private practice. Up to the present time there has been no such diminution of work falling upon the staff of the Ministry as would warrant a reduction in that staff, but the question of staff in relation to work is under continuous review. The total staff of the Ministry on 1st January, 1942, was 12,720, as compared with 8,670 a year ago. I regret that it is not possible readily to give separate figures for the staff employed solely in connection with the build- ing programme. The increase indicated is due almost entirely to the large expansion of existing services in connection with the construction, provision and maintenance of buildings and supplies required by civil Departments generally, as well as the large extension of the activities of the Ministry in connection with such matters as control of civil building, registration of builders, recovery of salvage, etc. I should add that, while it is the case that the amount of new work undertaken by the Ministry is beginning rapidly to diminish, it will be some time before this diminution is reflected in the amount of work actually in process.

Is my hon. Friend aware that many Government Departments which have to depend on his Ministry for building now consider that the delays incurred suggest that his Ministry is becoming quite top heavy and cannot do the work for which it has been so ill designed, and is he considering the question of allowing the building Departments to revert to the Ministries concerned?

I am not aware of the point which my hon. Friend raises.

Will my hon. Friend consider a case which I will put before him where 5 per cent. of the work has been done and the completion date is overdue, entirely owing to the fact that his Ministry has held the matter up?

I cannot accept the statement that the completion date is overdue. Frequently the completion date is purely imaginary in relation to the physical factors involved.

Is the hon. Member aware that I am quoting a statement by his Department, which I shall be glad to give him?

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, with a view to still further speeding up the building and repair of ships for the Royal Navy, he will give instructions to extend the scope of Warships Weeks so that prominent political, service and trade union speakers will address meetings at all dockyards urging the necessity for every possible effort to improve the sea power of the nation.

Warship Weeks were instituted for the purpose of stimulating national saving and to create for our towns and villages a more direct interest in the Royal Navy, and, as my hon. Friend is aware, have in this achieved a marked success. The Admiralty has already taken measures to impress upon the shipyard and dockyard workers the need for maximum effort on their part.

Is my hon. Friend satisfied that he is getting maximum production, or has been getting maximum production, of all ships in the dockyards, and, if not, will he consider every possible step to speed up production? Will he recommend his right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty to deliver some of his speeches in the dockyards?

If my hon. Friend heard the speeches of my right hon. Friend on the Navy Estimates and on an occasion prior to the Navy Estimates, he will be satisfied that we are getting production, but I am not suggesting that we are getting all the production we should like; there is room for improvement. But I think it is due to the men employed both in the Royal Dockyards and in the shipbuilding yards to point out that conditions are not nearly as bad as some people think. I can assure my hon. Friend that every step is being taken to bring about maximum production.

Is it not true, as my hon. Friend said, that most of the people in the Royal Dockyards are really working hard and well? It is not a question of speech-making; they are doing it, and will do it without speeches. In the case of others who are not working hard, some other action will have to be taken.

Is my hon. Friend aware that behind this Question is the suggestion if you give a lecture to the workers everything will be all right? Is he aware it is not the workers at all, and that the whole of the shipyards, particularly the yards which repair ships, are in a state of chaos due to the Admiralty? Is he aware that on the Clyde three retired Admirals, who know nothing about it, are in charge of the shipbuilding?

I cannot accept the statement which has been made by my hon. Friend. I recently made a short visit to the Clyde.

I know, and you said you would tell me all about it when you came up in the train, but you did not do so.

I repeat that this visit satisfied me that the majority of the men on the Clyde are doing their best.

I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment, not merely on the aspects contained in the Question, but in regard to a speech made by an hon. and gallant Member of this House at a Warship Week. I beg to give notice that I shall raise the general question of Warship Weeks being made the subject of slanderous attacks upon the working classes.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty, what arrangements have now been made for the intake of an increased number of Sea Cadets?

The arrangements in question are still under consideration, and I am not yet in a position to give details.

Is my hon. Friend aware that many boys who have now registered and been interviewed have elected to join the units and no units exist in London? Is he aware that I warned the First Lord a month ago about this, and is the matter still under consideration because the present position raises false hopes and is contrary to the whole spirit of the thing?

The First Lord is fully seized of the importance of expediting a decision and the organisation in connection with this matter. I can assure my hon. Friend that he can well leave the matter in the hands of the First Lord.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has considered the particulars sent to him of intimidation and oppression in St. Kitts, practised by the admin- istration there against trade union officials and organisers who were threatened with internment; and whether, before any trade union official is so interned he will incorporate in local colonial defence regulations the right of appeal to a special tribunal in Britain within a specified period?

With regard to the first part of the Question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Consett (Mr. David Adams) on 4th March. With regard to the second part of the Question, any person detained under Defence Regulations has the right to lodge an objection to an advisory committee. My Noble Friend does not consider that it is practicable or desirable to provide for appeal to a tribunal in this country.

In any local regulations which are made, will an attempt be made to ensure that there is no despotism by local officials against trade union organisations?

I cannot accept the suggestion contained in that question.

Is the Minister not aware that the day for treating natives as under-dogs has gone?

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what action has been taken on the reports made by the Comptroller for Development and Welfare in the West Indies on the questions of agriculture, public health and drainage in British Guiana; and what is the total sum granted to the Colony for these purposes?

The Colonial Government have prepared a number of applications for assistance from Colonial Development and Welfare funds, following the recommendations made by the Comptroller and his advisers. These applications cover a wide sphere in agriculture, public health, drainage and irrigation and other fields. Some of them are now under consideration, and four have already been approved. The total sum so far granted to the Colony under these schemes is £24,775.

Does the Colonial Office recognise that a good way to keep the good services of those in the Colonies is to deal with these matters?

Yes, Sir. We are most anxious to do that, but there are also difficulties about materials and so on which have to be overcome.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies why it is that out of a total of 101 schemes submitted by the governments of the West Indian Islands from the passing of the Colonial Development and Welfare Act till the end of 1941 only 40 had been approved; and whether there has since been any addition to the number submitted or to the number approved?

The number of applications for assistance which have been received from the West Indies up to date is 117. Schemes have been made under the Colonial Development and Welfare Act to cover 53 of these, and it is hoped that schemes in respect of 26 others will be made in the near future. Of the balance, several of those more recently received are still under consideration or are awaiting recommendations from the Comptroller for Development and Welfare. It has, however, been found necessary to refer in a certain number of cases to the Colony concerned for further information; and in a few cases, applications relate to projects which are not suitable for assistance under the Act.

Is it the intention of the Department that schemes should be proceeded with as rapidly as possible in war-time?

Yes, Sir, but there are difficulties, which are increasing, regarding materials and so forth.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any steps have yet been taken to set up a control board to regulate the West African palm kernel export trade; and, if so, whether he can state the prices which it is proposed to authorise?

The question of the establishment of a board to control the production and export of certain agricultural products, including palm kernels, from West Africa is being actively pursued. I do not anticipate, however, that as the result only of the establishment of a board there will be any substantial change in the prices paid to the growers for palm kernels.

May we anticipate that there will be a stabilisation of prices, which will be greatly in the interests of the growers?

Yes, Sir. That is already going on.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will, in view of the relevant clauses in the Atlantic Charter, announce plans for the more rapid democratisation of West African institutions including the native authorities; whether he will frame proposals to establish adult franchise, to eliminate official majorities on legislative councils, to appoint at least six Africans to the Governor's Executive Council in each Colony and ensure that a majority on municipal councils should be Africans; and whether African democratic organisations and personalities will be consulted to this end?

It continues to be the policy to introduce representative institutions in West Africa as the local populations become ready for them. But His Majesty's Government could not lend themselves to the pretence of framing proposals for establishing adult franchise in communities where that system can have no reality. In all the West African Dependencies the Legislative Councils contain African members nominated to represent the local communities, while in Nigeria, the Gold Coast and Sierra Leone, there are also African elected members. These persons are well qualified to advise the Governors on constitutional questions and their positions as Legislative Councillors affords them opportunities of doing so.

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that his reply will not give satisfaction to West Africans? The proposals in the Question have received the endorsement of representative Africans in this country and elsewhere, and does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that it is desirable that some great endeavour should be made to impress West Africans with our determination to assist their political progress?

The character of the hon. Member's Question shows that it is very difficult to deal with the matter by Question and answer. It requires much more general discussion of the large number of important problems which arise from the Question.

Is it not a fact that democracy is a form of government and not a universal panacea?

Will the right hon. Gentleman give consideration to an overhaul of the legislative councils as well as of local government in the whole of West Africa? The time is long overdue for some such overhaul.

Yes, but I am afraid I must repeat that the character of the various Supplementary Questions shows how difficult it is to deal with this matter by Question and answer.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies the percentage increase of wages in Sierra Leone, compared with the increased cost of living; whether he will expedite information from West African Colonies respecting cost of living and increase in wages; whether he will indicate the nature and scope of measures taken by West African Governments for the relief of hardship; and, approximately, how many wage earners exist in the West African Colonies?

As the information asked for by my hon. Friend necessitates a statement of some length, I will, with his permission, circulate the reply in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that there is still considerable disturbance in the public mind regarding the conditions of the natives in East Africa, and will he speed up the inquiries that are being made regarding the discrepancy between the high cost of living and the low wages?

Perhaps the hon. Member will read my reply and put down any further Question.

Following is the reply:

The detailed survey made by the Sierra Leone Government, to which reference was made by me in my reply to my hon. Friend's previous Question on the 25th February, was confined to Freetown where it was known that the rise in the cost of living had been exceptionally high. The survey was limited to households whose heads earned less than £3 a month. As stated by me, the Governor has explained that the figure of 75 per cent. rise estimated by the Committee which conducted the survey must be accepted with reserve, owing to the difficulties experienced in securing reliable information from the households from whom information was sought. The difficulties included suspicion of the objects of the investigation, and the tendency of persons who were approached on the one hand to exaggerate their expenditure, and on the other hand not always to disclose full particulars of their income. In this connection I may mention that a profitable source of income at the present time is petty trading, which, on account of the great increase in the prices of native produce, has become a very remunerative sideline in Freetown. The Committee found it very difficult to assess this item. The report concludes by saying that although the increase in the cost of living in Freetown has been extremely marked, the earnings of the average household have increased considerably at the same time, although it is not possible to obtain sufficiently accurate data to determine how large these increases are.

The survey was made in February, 1941, at which time the lowest paid class of Government workers was in receipt of wages of 1s. per day. The Government, after careful consideration of the report, reached the conclusion that a fair bonus would be one at the rate of 5d. per day for such labour. In May, 1941, the basic wage rate for such labourers was raised from 1s. to 1s. 2d. per, day, and the cost of living bonus which was authorised in November, 1941, was consequently fixed on the basis of 3d. instead of 5d. per day. The bonus takes the form of an issue of food to that value or cash in lieu. Other labourers up to and including those earning 5s. 11d. per day receive bonuses ranging between 5d. and 1d. per day.

The answer to the second part of the Question is in the affirmative. With re- gard to the third part, the reply I gave on 25th February indicates the nature and scope of the measures taken and shows that all the West African Governments are fully alive to the necessity for ensuring that hardship arising out of the increased cost of living shall so far as possible be minimised. The position regarding the number of wage earners in West Africa has substantially altered during the war, and reliable statistics of the present number of wage earners are not available.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can now make a statement concerning the sinking of the "Struma" with 769 passengers on board, including 270 women and 70 children?

The "Struma" was a converted yacht of about 200 tons. Flying the Panamanian flag, she left Con-stanza last October with some 769 Jews on board with the intention of effecting their entry illegally into Palestine. She reached Istanbul about mid-December, when she was described as being badly overcrowded, and thereafter considerable repairs to her engines had to be effected. While she was lying at Istanbul, the Turkish authorities intimated that the passengers could not be allowed to remain in Turkey. The Palestine Government also made it clear, with the support of His Majesty's Government, that they could not be admitted to Palestine. This action was in conformity with the policy consistently followed since the establishment of the mandatory régime and publicly confirmed by His Majesty's Government in November, 1940.

When the Turkish authorities found that the passengers would not be admitted to Palestine, they decided on 23rd February to send the vessel back to the Black Sea. On 24th February news was received that she had sunk as a result of an explosion four or five miles from the entrance to the Bosphorus. The cause of the disaster is not definitely established. She may have struck a mine, but the possibility of her having been torpedoed is not excluded as a Turkish vessel was torpedoed in the vicinity about the time.

His Majesty's Government greatly deplore the tragic loss of life which occurred in this disaster. They had hoped that effect might have been given to the offer of the Palestine Government to admit to Palestine the children on board between the ages of 11 and 16, but this proved impracticable as the Turkish authorities did not feel themselves able to give the necessary permission to land. His Majesty's Government earnestly hope that such a tragedy will not occur again. It does not lie in their power, however, amid the dangers and uncertainties of war, to give any guarantee, nor can they be party to any measures which would undermine the existing policy regarding illegal immigration into Palestine, in view of the wider issues involved. Subject to these reservations, however, I can say that His Majesty's Government will endeavour, so far as lies in their power, to ensure that there is no recurrence of such a disaster as that which befell the "Struma."

Is my hon. Friend aware that a great many people, both in this and other countries, have been shocked by this tragedy? Is he aware that this is the second ship containing unfortunate refugees which has been blown up within a year? May I ask whether he will consult with his Noble Friend to see whether it is possible to make such modifications in the practical application of the policy of His Majesty's Government in regard to Palestine as may make tragedies of this kind impossible to occur again?

I will consult my Noble Friend, but, if my hon. Friend will read the statement I have made, he will see that, subject to the reservation of the general wider policy not being affected, the Government will do everything possible.

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind in those consultations that if the ship had been an enemy ship, German, Italian or Japanese, those on board would have been interned, and will he not consider whether a policy of that kind is not better than exposing them to danger?

I will convey all those points to my. Noble Friend.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Report on the Conscription of African Labourers in Kenya will be made available in this country; and when the scheme will come into operation?

A few copies of the Report are available in the Colonial Office, and I am sending one to my hon. Friend. The scheme is coming into immediate operation.

Will a copy be placed in the Library of the House?

Yes, Sir.

In view of the great importance of this departure in Colonial policy, I beg to give notice that I shall raise it at an early opportunity.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in connection with the scheme for compulsory labour in Kenya, there will be any Africans on the Essential Undertakings Board and the District Wages Board?

No, Sir. The Essential Undertakings Board will probably consist of the Chairman of the Supply Board, the Chairman of the Settlement and Production Board, and the Director of Agriculture. The Central Wages Board, to which I assume my hon. Friend refers, will consist of the Director of Manpower, the Chief Native Commissioner, the Labour Commissioner, a representative of the Medical Department, and the Deputy Chairman of the Settlement and Production Board. This membership is calculated to ensure that the interests of the African employees are effectively safeguarded.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that it would be far more effective if Africans were included, just as if it were in this country it would be more effective if Englishmen were included?

That has been considered but the arrangement by which certain gentlemen with special qualifications are looking after the general interests of the Africans is one which operates over a large number of matters affecting African interests and is generally recognised as working satisfactorily.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies how many non-Africans in Kenya have been called upon to perform compulsory service?

No figures are available in this country, but the Governor is being asked if he can supply the information.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent Africans are being conscripted to work on European farms in Northern Rhodesia; and whether the scheme differs from that approved in Kenya?

As the reply is a long one, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the reply:

In 1941, there was in Northern Rhodesia an acute shortage of maize for local consumption, and emergency measures had to be taken to import supplies, which could be ill-spared, from neighbouring territories. In order that everything possible should be done to obviate a recurrence of this shortage and of shortages of other foodstuffs for local consumption, immediate steps have been taken to increase the production of foodstuffs to the maximum, especially maize and wheat. Every effort has been made to secure the necessary labour but it has not been possible to obtain the full numbers required under voluntary arrangements. Accordingly, in view of the urgent necessity of securing the required labour at once in order that the land may be prepared in time for planting, my Noble Friend has agreed to the Governor's proposal to use compulsory powers for a limited period of two months to deal with the immediate necessity and for the compulsory recruitment of up to 600 labourers on European farms. The Governor has, therefore, taken compulsory powers under emergency regulations for the period expiring on the 30th April to conscript labour for essential work on farms, and he will use the regulations to obtain such number of the 600 labourers as are not obtainable voluntarily. The Government has taken steps to ensure that the conditions of employment on the farms are fair and equitable. Labour conscripted under the emergency regulations will receive a rate of pay not less than the average rates paid to farm labour and rations to the satisfaction of the Government. Expansion of native production will proceed side by side with European, and the Governor is satisfied that the recruitment for farms during the next two months will not prejudice native production in any way.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of anxiety respecting rice supplies for Ceylon, he is satisfied that adequate rice reserves and supplies do and will exist; what provision is being made for the future; approximately how much rice is required in normal times and now; whether the present population has recently increased or decreased; and what representations have been made by the Ceylonese Council, or by private organisations, respecting the food situation in Ceylon?

With regard to the first part of the Question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer my predecessor gave to a similar Question of his on 4th February. The Government of India are co-operating closely in arranging for supplies both now and in the future. In normal times about 30,000 tons of rice is imported into Ceylon a month, but this amount should be considerably decreased by rationing. The population of Ceylon has increased in recent years. No representations have been received from the State Council or from private organisations in the matter.

May we take it that the Minister is satisfied that adequate rice supplies exist for some time to come?

My Noble Friend could never be satisfied, with the many dangers which beset us, but the hon. Member may be satisfied that we are pursuing with the greatest possible urgency the problem raised in the Question.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, in view of the congested condition of railway travel, the need to prevent all unnecessary journeys and the restrictions on tyres and petrol, he will make a statement in connection with the avoidance of holiday travel and the limitation of services, so that plans may be known as early as possible, essential journeys safeguarded and unnecessary expenditure prevented?

The question of holiday travel is engaging my close attention. My Noble Friend, in his broadcast last Sunday, has explained the arrangements which the Government think it desirable to make in the immediate future for dealing with the Easter problem. But for the reasons stated in his Question by my hon. and gallant Friend, drastic economy will be required throughout the coining months in the use of transport for any purposes not connected with the war effort of the nation. While, therefore, the Government are anxious that all war workers should have one week's holiday during the coming summer, it will not be possible to provide facilities for long-distance holiday travel. It is, therefore, desirable that industrial and other enterprises should arrange to stagger their holidays as much as possible, and it is hoped that many people will spend their holidays either in the neighbourhood of their homes or in walking or cycling.

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind, with reference to the vital need for stopping unnecessary travel, that when such an appeal has been made on previous occasions it has been met by an extensive programme of special trains arranged for the holidays? Will he take the necessary steps to see that what he said is in fact enforced and that no such facilities are allowed by the railway companies for the forthcoming holiday period?

The policy that has been adopted is that there shall be no special trains for holiday traffic and that at all times as much of the available transport as possible shall be reserved for Government servants, members of the Armed Forces and those engaged in direct war production.

As about 90 per cent. of the people who take long distance journeys do not pay their own fares, will the hon. Gentleman have an inquiry as to the extent to which those journeys are necessary?

That matter is very closely controlled by my Department. All Government Departments receive strict instructions concerning the travel of their own officials and those working for them.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that some officials have sleepers on Friday and Sunday nights to go home and back?

There is a later Question on that point, and I hope the hon. Gentleman will listen to what I say.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware that members of His Majesty's Services frequently have to wait several hours for train connections during the night at Swindon Junction Railway Station; that waiting and rest accommodation at or near the station is inadequate; and what steps does he propose to take to remedy this position?

Yes, Sir. I am aware of the unsatisfactory conditions to which my hon. friend has called attention. I am glad to inform him that the Army welfare department is now constructing a new rest room for Service personnel on Swindon Station, and I trust that a considerable improvement will result.

May I thank the Minister for his reply and ask whether he is aware that this step will cause great satisfaction among troops who have to change and wait for many hours at the station?

Could not the people of Swindon have done it for themselves?

I ought to make it plain that the Great Western Railway have made great efforts to provide this improvement. They have put at the disposal of the Y.M.C.A. a large part of their restaurant and certain room space, but the Y.M.C.A. have not been able to find the staff during the night, and, there- fore, the troops have been without anywhere to go. The real responsibility for this lies with the welfare department of the War Office, who are constructing new rest rooms. They have been impeded by a shortage of timber, and we are endeavouring to speed up the supply.

Cannot the Minister get the military authorities to lend men for the night? That is what we have done at Plymouth, and it is very satisfactory.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he will make inquiries as to the number of sleepers provided each week-end to enable men holding temporary positions in Government Departments to travel from London to their homes on Friday nights, and return to London from their homes on Sunday nights?

All Government Departments have received a standing instruction that sleeping berths can be reserved by the Ministry of War Transport only for officials who are obliged to travel by night on business of national importance. I have no reason to suppose that this rule is being disregarded. I would, however, remind my hon. Friend that persons not eligible for reservations by my Department are entitled, like any other members of the public, to reserve surplus berths, if any are available, through the railway companies.

Will the hon. Gentleman satisfy himself as to the business of national importance for which so many sleepers are taken on Friday and Sunday nights?

That is a matter which is constantly engaging my attention, but what I need are facts. If my hon. and gallant Friend will supply me with specific cases of abuse, I will have them looked into.

I shall be very glad to oblige.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport what arrangements he has in view to ensure post-war security of employment, adequate wages and superannuation benefits for officers and men of the Merchant Navy?

These vitally important questions are at present under consideration by the representatives of the owners and those of the officers and men in the National Maritime Board. My Noble Friend has asked the Board to bring their discussions to the stage of definite proposals as soon as possible.

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that these are the most practical methods of acknowledging our indebtedness to this very gallant service?

It is the aim of the Government that the Mercantile Marine shall be maintained after the war in adequate strength and full efficiency. An essential part of what the Government mean by efficiency is that the best obtainable conditions shall be provided for the officers and men who are serving the country so well.

asked the Minister of Information why the Labour party's Interim Report on Post-War Reconstruction, which has created public interest and has been referred to widely in the Press, was ignored in the broadcast bulletins?

I am informed by the Governors of the B.B.C. that the report was not mentioned in the news bulletins at the time of publication because it was described as an interim document issued prior to discussions at regional conferences and at the Annual Conference of the Labour party. I am told that on further consideration the Corporation have come to the conclusion that a reference to the report ought not to have been omitted from the current news and have asked the secretary of the party to accept their assurances that the omission was made in all good faith.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that production is suffering because the workers are of opinion that privately-owned concerns will not go all out unless they are sure of profits; and will he make it clear that the Government intend to take over any business proved to have behaved in this manner?

If there are any cases of the kind to which my hon. Friend refers, I would make it clear that the Government would not hesitate to make full use of the powers conferred upon them by Defence Regulations, including, if necessary, the taking over of the business, if they were satisfied that production was unsatisfactory for reasons within the control of the management.

I am glad that statement is made, because there is no doubt that work is interfered with by private owners not going all out, and unless something is done the Government will not get a 100 per cent. effort.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his reply will give great satisfaction to the workers, against whom so many allegations are being made? Can the number of private firms that have been controlled be made known?

Perhaps my hon. Friend will put that question down.

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that the number of private firms who would be animated thus is negligible?

The number of people among both masters and men who are not pulling their weight in the war effort is very small.

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is an atmosphere throughout the shipbuilding and engineering shops that the employers are not playing the game? Will he make inquiries, because it is what is at the root of the trouble and of all the insinuations that come across the Floor of this House about the workers not putting their backs into it. They certainly are not putting their backs into it, and that is one of the reasons—they, like the employers, are wondering what will happen after the war.

Perhaps my hon. Friend will consult with my hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the Admiralty, who has made a tour of the shipbuilding yards, and have a talk with him on the subject.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that some thousands of employees of the British Broadcasting Corporation are not adequately serving the country; and whether he will give consideration to a proposal for the appointment of a Select Committee to investigate the expenditure of money and man-power by the British Broadcasting Corporation?

No, Sir. His Majesty's Government regard the work done by the B.B.C. as of great national importance and have asked the Corporation to undertake a steady expansion of their services. The question of reservation of B.B.C. staff from military service has been considered by Lord Kennet's Committee and in order to facilitate the release of those members of staff who are not essential, the age of reservation of male administrative staff has recently been raised from 3o to 35. I would moreover refer to the recent appointment by the Governors of the B.B.C. of Mr. Robert Foot as Joint Director-General, to take chief executive control of the administrative and financial aspects of the Corporation's services under war-time conditions with the object of securing the most economical use of money and man-power.

Is my right hon. Friend aware there is great doubt whether the many thousands of people in this organisation are really giving value for their money? They are spending untold millions of pounds, and is it not time that the House had an opportunity of ascertaining the facts?

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that these thousands of emplayees are giving of their very best in one of the most vital weapons of the war and in view of the fact that every hour of efficient broadcasting saves thousands of British lives by shortening the war, will he consult with his right hon. Friend the Minister of Information in order to study in what way this vital arm can be extended?

I am sure that my right hon. Friend will take note of that.

asked the Minister of State whether the Committee appointed to review and advise on the organisation of production in the regions will report to him?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply: Yes, Sir.

asked the Prime Minister whether he intends the Minister of State to have a technical staff to survey and progress the whole field of war production?

asked the Prime Minister whether it is his intention to re-issue the White Paper on Office of the Minister of Production?

I hope that it will be possible to make a full statement on the scope of the functions of the Minister of State shortly.

What are we to understand by "shortly"? Does it mean in the course of a few days or a few weeks?

I cannot define it exactly. It means "very shortly."

Does the statement mean that the new Minister of Production will make a statement himself so that we might discuss it?

I cannot say offhand, but I will consult with my hon. Friend.

Is the right hon. Gentleman holding a job which has not yet been defined?

asked the Prime Minister whether, for the greater con- venience of all concerned and to economise in transport, an option will be given to officers and men of the Forces, whenever operational conditions permit, to have longer periods of leave at correspondingly longer intervals?

I understand such option has already been made available to officers and men in the Army and to the ground staff of the Royal Air Force. As my hon. Friend is aware, sea-going conditions are not comparable, for seagoing personnel must take their leave when they can.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Government are paying high salaries for unskilled work in the Fighting Services and, in one case of which he has been given information, £1,000 per annum for ordinary clerical work; and what steps have been taken to compel the Services to grade their men according to their ability?

The three Services in their own interest make every effort to grade men according to their abilities. It is not correct to describe this payment as "for ordinary clerical work." It is the balance of the man's civil pay.

Is it not a misuse of a man's capacity to be put on unskilled work if he is capable of earning such a high salary in civil life?

Will my right hon. Friend consider the possibility of employing Sir William Beveridge to inquire into the use of man-power in the Services and take up questions of this sort which are not by any means isolated?

I will bring that point to the notice of my right hon. Friend.

asked the Prime Minister whether he will instruct Ministers to terminate the present practice of replying to Questions by reference to some previous answers, which frequently debars a supplementary question of possibly national importance being asked?

No, Sir My right hon. Friend is not prepared to adopt my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion.

Will my right hon. and learned Friend bear in mind that it is not possible for Members of Parliament to remember every previous answer to every previous Question, and would it not be more simple for Ministers to answer the Questions on the Paper?

I think it would be a waste both of time and paper to do that.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will consider allocating the same ration of cheese to railway shunters as that given to engine drivers, firemen, signalmen and other heavy workers, in view of the long hours of work which railway shunters undertake without canteen facilities?

The case of the shunters is not considered to justify the grant of the special ration of cheese as it is felt that the provision of other feeding facilities should not be impracticable.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware of the concern caused by a recent prosecution over hoarding of food; and will he make it known what is the position in the household as to the stock of food they are entitled to hold in reserve without laying themselves open to prosecution?