asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, what were the amounts paid to the League of Nations, for the year 1941, by Great Britain, the British Dominions and foreign countries, respectively?

Since the Reply is long and contains a number of figures, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Does not my hon. Friend think that, in view of the stringent control which the Treasury exercise on our exchange reserves, it is time we should cease contributing alone of all the countries in the world to this defunct organisation?

I think my hon. Friend had better study the Reply which will be circulated before he asks questions upon it.

Surely my hon. Friend will agree that we alone of all the, countries of the world, except a few of the Dominions, are contributing a substantial sum to the upkeep of these buildings, and does he not think it is time that we should cease doing it?

No, I would not agree, and if my hon. Friend studies the Reply, I do not think he will.

Has not this organisation done enough harm without our still subscribing to it now?

Is not this organisation still doing a great amount of good?

Following is the Reply :

The following countries paid their contributions in full, and the amounts were as follow: —

The following three States paid part of their contributions: —

Two States who were not called upon to contribute in 1941 made token payments: —

Four countries paid certain sums in respect of arrears, namely:

One country, Argentina, made a voluntary payment which was accepted as such, of 35,516.26 gold francs.

These figures exclude payments amounting to 599,936.70 gold francs made by members of the International Labour Office who are not members of the League.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he has now given further consideration to the question whether women, who are total abstainers, are to be considered equally eligible as police in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force as women who are moderate drinkers; and whether he will make a further statement?

Yes, Sir. The Order was amended accordingly, and an announcement was made on 27th March.

Will my right hon. Friend see that more publicity is given to this correction, in view of the correspondence that many Members of this House receive from their constituents?

I hope that my hon. Friend's Question will have that effect.

As some of us did not hear the Reply to this very important Question, would the Minister mind repeating it, with your permission, Mr. Speaker?

The Answer was: "Yes, Sir. The Order was amended accordingly, and an announcement was made on 27th March."

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether the inquiry being conducted by Group Captain Brown into the circumstances under which the aeroplane of the British Overseas Air Corporation was lost about the 15th February has been completed; and what was the cause of this happening?

As, at the material time, the aircraft was operating under R.A.F. control, the inquiry to which my hon. Friend refers was held under R.A.F. auspices. The inquiry has now been completed, but it would not be possible to state the findings without giving information of value to the enemy.

Without wishing in any way to endanger the safety of the nation, can my right hon. Friend say whether it was through enemy action or due to other causes?

That was the subject of the inquiry.

asked the Secretary of State for Air what refreshments, solid and liquid, are available for our airmen upon their return from night raids; and whether the variety, quantity and quality are comparable at all Royal Air Force stations?

Provision is made at all operational R.A.F. stations for refreshments for air crews at any hour of the day or night on their return from operational flights. Individual tastes are consulted as far as possible, and the standard of catering is broadly the same in all cases.

Will my right hon. Friend see to it that something other than cold stewed tea is given?

A man can have anything he requires, from a cup of tea or a cup of Bovril and biscuits to a meal, and if my hon. Friend knows of any cases in which operational air crews returning from their flights have not had proper food available for them in full variety, or anything they like, I wish he would let me know, and I will look into it.

I will certainly let my right hon. Friend know of the case of the airmen who told me about the cold stewed tea.

asked the Secretary of State for Air, whether, in view of the shortage of metal and the waste of time, labour and metal polish, involved in cleaning brass buttons, he will abandon their use on Royal Air Force uniforms?

Plastic buttons will be worn on Royal Air Force uniforms. Garments with the new buttons will be issued to airmen and airwomen when the stocks of brass buttons are exhausted. The change-over will be gradual.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that last November I put down a Question to the Minister of Supply and I was informed that they had decided to issue nothing but plastic buttons to the Army? How is it that there has been such an interminable delay in reaching a decision in the Royal Air Force; does it not show a lack of co-ordination in the three Services; and is it not typical of the way that the Government have always delayed reaching decisions? May I have an answer?

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production what was the cost of the provision and erection of the entertainment stage, dressing-rooms and other accessories and also of the specially laid dancing floor at a shadow factory, the situation of which has been notified to him; and on what grounds it was decided that such costly amenities are necessary to war production?

The factory in question is not a shadow factory, and the amenities referred to were provided by the company at their own expense.

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that the people employed at this factory strongly resent the implication that their patriotism and loyalty are to be purchased by the provision of such costly luxuries?

I do not know. A good canteen has been erected, and the firm has seen fit to put up, at its own expense, a stage, on which, I understand, from time to time entertainment is given, and I think that the amenities will be welcome to a number of employees.

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he has considered the statement from a factory of which he has been given notice; whether he is aware that in this factory the works superintendent informed the representatives of the workers that he was running the factory and did not want any assistance from the men; and what steps has he taken in the matter?

I have arranged for a full investigation to be made.

Is the Minister clearly aware that in connection with this Question the day of the big boss at the top and the mass of untouchables below has gone for ever, and that the workers, who are the main producers, must be taken into full consideration on matters appertaining to the factory?

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production, in how many cases his Department has guaranteed bank overdrafts in respect of businesses manufacturing for his Department; and what is the amount of loans so guaranteed and the rate of interest paid on such loans?

No such guarantees have been given by my Department.

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he is aware of the arrangement made by an aircraft firm in the South of England to close their works for one week in order that their employees may have an opportunity of digging their gardens; and whether he will take steps to prevent this delay in the production of aircraft?

The arrangement to close the works for a week was made with the concurrence of my Department. In the circumstances of the particular case, this is better for production than the alternative of spreading the holidays over several months. If the workpeople choose to add to their national effort by working in their gardens during their holiday, they deserve every encouragement.

Is the Minister aware that the sub-contractors of this firm are all busily engaged and working at the highest pressure, and that the type of aircraft manufactured there is badly required to-day?

This factory is doing repair work mainly on trainer types. They are up to their schedule at the present moment and have spares in hand. We expect more repairs during the days of longer flying weather in the summer, and it is far better that the factory should shut down completely for one week now rather than have the holidays spread over the whole of the summer months.

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that this factory is producing a very important type of aircraft which is very badly required at the moment? I have made full inquiries and know the facts.

So have I. The factory has been engaged on repair work of a very important type, but its main work is repair work on a trainer type.

I shall put down a further Question on the subject.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware that the delay, in some cases of a period of four months, in the issue by his Department of licences to acquire the commercial vehicles which, surplus to Army requirements, are being reconditioned by the motor industry for the purposes of essential civilian use, is causing congestion of workshop space required for the maintenance of essential road transport vehicles, militating against the efficient transport of essential materials and foodstuffs and failing to relieve the necessity for the manufacture of new vehicles for essential civilian use; and will he give an assurance that these licences will in future be issued with the utmost despatch?

I am not aware that there has been such delay as my hon. Friend suggests in the issue of permits for the acquisition of reconditioned goods vehicles released by the Army, but I am making inquiries, and perhaps my hon. Friend will let me have details of any instances of which he is aware. Applications for these vehicles are dealt with by Regional Transport Commissioners, and my hon. Friend will realise that before a permit is granted the Commissioner concerned must satisfy himself as to the operator's need for the vehicle.

Is not my hon. Friend satisfied that there is considerable delay in issuing these permits and that it is holding up the reconditioning and repair in the workshops and is affecting the efficiency of the Army and the Royal Air Force?

I am in touch with trade organisations and other people with a view to bringing supply and demand as closely together as possible, but, roughly, in the last five months, about 2,400 of these vehicles have been collected from the Army, and the vast majority have already been disposed of to users.

Will my hon. Friend call for a census of commercial vehicles which have been delayed in these workshops for two months or over?

I have called for that.

Will my hon. Friend consider the case and its application from the point, of view of persons engaged on work of national importance? Cannot we get a proper system, and will he see that such a system is brought into being?

I am most anxious to have such cases, and if my hon. and gallant Friend will send me some, I will look into them with all care.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport to what extent the public followed the advice given by the Government not to indulge in unnecessary travel during the Easter period; whether he is satisfied with the response; and whether he proposes to take any different action in connection with Whitsuntide?

As the House is aware from the message broadcast by my Noble Friend, preliminary reports indicate that the response of the public was good. Arrangements for Whitsuntide are under consideration; meanwhile the duty of refraining from unnecessary travel continues to be of vital importance to the successful prosecution of the war.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether his attention has been called to the inconvenience caused to working-men returning home for lunch by the congestion of omnibuses and tram-cars; and will he arrange for workers to have preference over shoppers and pleasure-seekers in all public conveyances?

Schemes for giving priority of travel to workpeople going to and from their places of work in the morning and evening are in existence in many districts where the need, has been proved and where the conditions are suitable. It would be more difficult to make such arrangements at the luncheon hours, but if my Honourable Friend will let me know of any particular instance of serious inconvenience that he may have in mind, I will look into it.

Are the facilities referred to in operation in the Wolverhampton district?

I believe not. The difficulty there, I believe, is very largely with regard to Guy's Motor Works. The local authorities are pressing them to enlarge their canteen to relieve pressure at the luncheon hour.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the position of the railway workers, who are working on the various station staffs in the country, and the inability of these workers to obtain any refreshments while on continuous duty; and will he make inquiries with the idea of getting arrangements made whereby reasonable opportunity can be offered to the staff to obtain such refreshment?

At many of the larger stations, canteens and other facilities are already available for members of the station staffs, and these arrangements are being extended as rapidly as existing conditions permit. My hon. Friend will, however, recognize that it would be in-practicable to provide special facilities at all stations.

Is my hon. Friend aware that at many large stations it is impossible for people who have been working long hours in all sorts of weather to purchase even a cup of tea on the coldest night, either at a military canteen or a refreshment room?

If my hon. Friend will give me details of the stations where this particular hardship exists, I will immediately look into the matter. He will, however, recognise that the difficulty of securing labour and materials for the construction of canteens is considerable.

Is my hon. Friend aware that the difficulty exists at nearly every large station, where the men are not allowed to buy tea in the refreshment rooms because they are railway workers?

If my hon. Friend will write to me on that point, I will have it looked into.

asked the Minister of Information which of the aims of the "Never Again" Association are regarded by the British Broadcasting Corporation as controversial?

According to its published literature, the Association was formed with the aim of promoting certain definite views with regard to the terms of peace and the way in which Germany should be treated after the war. The B.B.C. consider that they must regard as controversial the views of any organisation formed for such a purpose.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the two main aims of this Association are to win this war and to make Germany powerless to wage future wars? Is there anything objectionable to the B.B.C. in that?

I do not think there is anything objectionable in that. The B.B.C. are doing their best to promote the objects my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind, but just because a few persons form themselves into an association they have no claim to use the broadcasting machinery of the B.B.C.

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment at the first opportunity.

asked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that his Department's motor-cars passing from place to place are not allowed to give lifts to Service men; and will he remove this ban?

Authority was given on 21st March for drivers of Ministry-owned cars and vans to offer lifts to Service men in uniform when no extension of the official journey is involved.

I am glad to hear that, because I raised this matter two years ago.

Does that include cars owned by the Political Warfare Department?

The affairs of that Department are wrapped in impenetrable mystery, and their cars are camouflaged.

asked the Minister of Information, whether he will give the names of the principal officials of the Political Warfare Department?

asked the Minister of Information whether he can make any statement as to the present arrangements of the Government so far as the carrying out of propaganda and political warfare is concerned?

I am unable to make any statement on the details of arrangements for carrying on political warfare, but single executive authority is now vested in the Director-General of Political Warfare, Mr. R. H. Bruce-Lockhart. He is assisted by Mr. R. A. Leeper, Brigadier R. A. D. Brooks and Mr. I. Kirkpatrick, who form under his chairmanship an advisory Propaganda Policy Committee.

While I do not question the loyalty of these gentlemen in carrying out any policy with which they may be specifically charged, ought not the principal officials to include men who are more fitted by temperament and conviction for the task of stirring up revolution against Hitler in Europe?

The hon. Gentleman was a colleague of these people, so I do not think he should suggest for one second that these gentlemen are incapable of trying to stir up revolution in Europe. They have all the qualifications for the job.

Is it the responsibility of the Political Warfare Executive to erect and operate broadcasting stations in the Crown Colonies, such as Malta, Cyprus and Gibraltar, and, further, in reference to this Department, does one consult my right hon. Friend directly on matters on which one wants information, since this is supposed to be a secret organisation?

The only way in which information about the Political Warfare Executive can be obtained is by consulting with me, and I shall always be glad to give my hon. and gallant Friend the information he desires. As regards broadcasting stations, the Political Warfare Executive are not responsible for their erection.

asked the Minister of Information what Parliamentary representation there is at present on broadcasting committees of the British Broadcasting Corporation?

Certain B.B.C. advisory committees on which Members of Parliament served have not engaged in any regular activity since the war began. Among the personnel of the specialised committees which still meet regularly there are two Members of Parliament. There are also two Members at present serving on the Board of Governors.

Can my right hon. Friend say for what reason the advice of Members of Parliament on these broadcasting committees has been discontinued? Would it not have been very useful at the present time?

It happened long before my time. I believe one of my three predecessors was responsible, and I imagine that what happened was that at the beginning of the war the Board of Governors was abolished, and with them all committees disappeared except one, namely, the Religious Advisory Committee for the benefit of Wales, the Chairman of which, is, I think, the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Carnarvon Boroughs (Mr. Lloyd George). If, however, my hon. Friend feels, and other Members agree, that these committees should be reformed, I am perfectly willing to put it up to the B.B.C.

The right hon. Gentleman referred to Members of Parliament and mentioned one. Who was the other?

The hon. and gallant Gentleman the Member for Lonsdale (Sir I. Frazer) and the hon. Gentleman who represents West Leicester (Mr. Harold Nicolson) with such distinction.

May I ask my right hon. Friend whether there is any Parliamentary representation on the technical committees, or am I to understand that as regards any suggestions made in the House on technical Broadcasting matters the Minister has to accept as final an adverse decision taken by the engineering department of the B.B.C. without any further reference to an independent opinion?

I do not quite see myself how a Member of Parliament can really assist in deliberations of engineers. I have no doubt that they would be impressed by a Member's power of expression, but these are scientific matters, which can only be dealt with by experts.

Will the right hon. Gentleman impress upon the officials of the B.B.C. that it is important, when reporting Parliamentary Debates, to represent the views of Parliament and not the views of a particular Minister?

asked the Minister of Information the number of persons engaged in the publication of the "Arabic Listener" and what is the sum total of salaries paid for the production of this publication?

The "Arabic Listener" is produced in the Near Eastern Department of the B.B.C. by persons who are engaged concurrently on this and other work. Its editor is engaged half-time on the "Arabic Listener" and half-time on other work. He has one full-time assistant and three other persons who regularly devote a small part of their time to the production of this journal. The salary costs are estimated at £1,200 a year.

Does that figure of £1,200 include half the salary of the editor?

I do not know, but I will look up that point if the hon. Gentleman so desires.

asked the Minister of Information why news bulletins are transmitted in English several times daily on medium wave on the European services of the British Broadcasting Corporation, when European listeners could equally well pick up the Home or Forces programme; and whether he will consider, in view of the shortage of transmitters, allocating these periods to news bulletins in other languages for which at the moment there is inadequate provision?

It is not the fact that listeners in all parts of Europe can pick up the news bulletins in the Home or Forces programmes as easily as those which are transmitted in the B.B.C. European service. While I appreciate my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion, I think there is a great deal to be said for including English among the languages in which special broadcasts are made to European listeners.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that these transmissions in English in the European service of the B.B.C. perform a very useful service, and that despite the great amount of enemy jamming it is sometimes received in certain pockets of Europe? Before he thinks of suppressing this service will he consider utilising the many silent periods which are now unused on the European service medium wave?

I am obliged to my hon. and gallant Friend for his compliments to the B.B.C., and I will certainly tender his suggestion to them.

asked the Minister of Information what steps he is taking to acquaint the Russian people with the magnitude of the effort made by the people of this country?

British news is transmitted daily to U.S.S.R. through Reuters and British Official Wireless, and a wide range of facilities is given to Soviet correspondents in London to acquaint themselves with the British war effort. In addition, the Ministry of Information sends daily, by wireless telegraph, news items, photographs, background information and articles. Newsreels and short films are sent and radio programmes are being produced on records for despatch to Moscow. A weekly publication in Russian entitled "British War News" will soon be published in Moscow. We are working in full co-operation with the Soviet authorities in this matter.

Will my right hon. Friend take all steps to bring to the knowledge of the people of this great land Power the importance of sea warfare at present?

Yes, Sir.

Is not the Minister aware that what the Soviet people and the people of this country want to hear about is Britain's effort at a second front in Europe?

Has my right hon. Friend's Department given consideration to the suggestions I made in my speeches of 6th July of last year and 4th March of this year, that the Soviet Union should place at our disposal a medium wave broadcasting station which would re-broadcast our short wave transmissions in order that Russian people with ordinary sets might hear about what we are doing?

My hon. and gallant Friend is a great expert on broadcasting, and I assure him that I read his speech carefully and that after the question he has asked, I shall, as one says, re-peruse it.

asked the Minister of Information whether the Press Attaché to the British Embassy in Moscow has now taken over his duties; and whether he is satisfied that the reciprocal exchange of information about our war efforts with Russia is now working efficiently?

The Press Officer and his staff are expected to arrive in the Soviet Union soon. I hope that they will be able to bring to fruition a variety of schemes designed to intensify the exchange of information and publicity.

Are they on their way?

I hope they are well on their way now. In these times, travel facilities are not very extensive.

Will broadcasting come within the purview of the Press Attaché?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Postmaster-General whether he has considered a letter from Mrs. Margaret Inglis, of Glasgow, on the question of air-mail rates on letters to men serving abroad; and whether he is prepared to grant the same concession in rates to the wives and dependants of men serving abroad as have been granted to the men themselves?

Yes, Sir, I have considered this letter, and replied to it. Mrs. Inglis asked why an air letter-card service similar to that available from His Majesty's Forces in the Middle East to this country is not provided in the outward direction. The air letter-cards used by the Middle East Forces are issued to them by the military authorities on a rationed basis of one per week, thus enabling strict control to be kept on the mail loads. A similar rationing system is impracticable where the general public is concerned and I regret that owing to the very limited aircraft accommodation available for mails in the outward direction I am not at present in a position to offer an unrestricted air letter facility to the public in this country. There is already an Airgraph and an air postcard service, for which the charge is in each case 3d., from this country to the Forces in the Middle East.

Would it not be possible when the allowance is being sent to the wife or other dependant of the soldier to send also a rationed letter-card that would enable the people here to communicate with their sons, husbands or other relatives in the East, and thus save this heavy expense of sending letters which do not often go by air mail?

There are the 3d. airgraph and air postcard services available. I will consider what the hon. Member has said, but obviously if the soldier were to include an air letter-card with every letter that he sent home, the load would be doubled.

The authorities here should send the air letter-card to the dependants.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he will make it clear that the Government do not desire metal antiquities of historic interest to be melted down for scrap?

Yes, Sir. Whilst voluntary gifts of metal for scrap are urgently required, it has never been contemplated that metal objects of genuine historic or antiquarian interest should be gathered as scrap for melting down.

Are not a great many things which are of little value as scrap, but which have very considerable historic interest, getting melted down?

I do not accept that.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he will cause it to be widely disseminated throughout the country that iron garden-rollers are welcomed by his Ministry as being salvage very useful to the State?

Yes, Sir. Iron garden-rollers and indeed any surplus iron and steel are urgently required for scrap. A circular recently issued to all local authorities in the United Kingdom emphasised the importance of intensifying efforts to recover all forms of potential scrap metal.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he has considered a protest from the Sedgley Urban District Council about the wasteful methods employed in that area to collect iron railings and the damage to masonry, which in most cases far exceeds the value of the scrap obtained; and will he see that in future as little damage as possible is caused in carrying out this work?

Yes, Sir. A reply has been sent to the Council. As regards the second part of the Question, contractors are under an obligation to repair damage and I have given instructions that when masonry walls are being repaired they should be finished with suitable cement and that when brick walls are being made good they should, as far as is practicable, be completed with a top course of brick on edge. As I have previously stated, every effort will be made to avoid damage to property.

Will the Government make it quite clear that those instructions must be carried out?

Is it not the duty of the local authorities to see that when scrap iron is taken away and the walls are cemented over, the work is done properly?

The local authorities do the scheduling, and then we collect the things. We have an arrangement with a contractor that it is part of his obligation to reinstate anything which is damaged caused by him. Where a wall is not capable of being repaired by him and the damage is not caused by him, my Department take responsibility, and we have our own inspectors to see that the work is efficiently carried out.

What steps can a private person take to see that the contractor carries out his obligations?

That should be reported to me.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty (1) in view of the fact that the fouling of ships by marine growths reduces speed and increases fuel consumption, whether the Admiralty has employed any biologists during the several years 1939, 1940, 1941, and 1942, to investigate means of diminishing this evil; and, if so, whether the Contracts Department of the Admiralty has been guided by the results of their investigations when placing orders for anti-fouling paints;

(2) Whether he is aware that British manufacturers, employing chemists and biologists to study the effectiveness of anti-corrosive and anti-fouling paints, have accumulated much important technical knowledge of the subject; and whether he proposes to take over such knowledge on the basis of adequate compensation for the expenditure incurred and for the loss of prospective profits?

The Admiralty does not directly employ biologists to investigate the fouling of ships, but Admiralty technical experts co-operate actively with a special Sub-Committee of the Corrosion Committee of the Iron and Steel Institute. This Committee employs full-time investigators into the marine-biological and corrosion aspects of the problem, and has the part-time assistance of a number of biologists, chemists and metallurgists. Their investigations are not yet by themselves sufficiently conclusive to be used as a guide for placing contracts, and purchases of proprietary compositions are made as a result of periodical competitive trials. I am aware that information has been accumulated by British manufacturers. The Association of Ships Compositions Manufacturers has been invited to co-operate in the work of the Sub-Committee of the Corrosion Committee, but has not done so up to the present.

Does that mean that full and adequate steps to prevent the corrosion of His Majesty's ships are still not taken, or that they have not been perfected?

No, Sir. The Admiralty experts co-operate actively with a special sub-committee who are engaged on this work.

Does not the Minister think that it is time the Admiralty made more direct use of the great scientific knowledge available, and employed scientific experts on important work of this kind?

Co-operation has been asked for, and in most cases it has been forthcoming.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he has any further statement to make regarding the issue of uniform to the Sea Cadet Corps?

Free uniform will be supplied to sea cadets of 14 years of age and upwards. It will be of naval pattern and quality, though it will not comprise all the articles included in the naval kit. It is regretted that sea cadets cannot be singled out for special treatment by the issue of greatcoats, but an issue of oil skins will be made to units for the use, of cadets who are practising in boats or otherwise in conditions involving exposure.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the services of Mr. George Constantinesco are being used in connection with inventions, the nature of which have been communicated to him?

In 1939 Mr. Constantinesco stated that he had a scheme for water craft in respect of which he made high claims as to their expected performance. He was asked to supply in confidence certain technical information connected with his design without which the Admiralty could not proceed with its examination but the information has not been received. Mr. Constantinesco is not being employed by the Admiralty.

In view of Mr. Constantinesco's very high standing, is it not remarkable that a pure technicality of procedure of this sort should have prevented a tremendously useful invention from being investigated for over two years, and is the Minister aware that Mr. Constantinesco is perfectly prepared to demonstrate working models of this invention to anybody whom he feels can be trusted?

My hon. and gallant Friend will realise that in this particular case about which he has asked, Mr. Constantinesco has been asked for certain specific information, but up to now has not given it.

Is it not a fact that the only reason Mr. Constantinesco refused to submit his designs and proposals was that he was asked to give them to Lord Cherwell and did not think him a competent judge?

I am afraid I cannot answer that question.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is now in a position to make a statement on open cast mining; to what extent it is being operated and under what control?

There are at present three deposits being worked, two under the direct control of the Mines Department and one by private enterprise. Three further sites have been proved and production will begin in the near future. Other sites are being examined with a view to extending this method of working to the utmost.

In the case of any new sites which are opened out, will they be under the control of the Government and apart from private enterprise?

They will be under the control of the Government, but the Government will have to call in private enterprise for privately-owned machines to develop schemes at the most rapid rate.

Has not the time come when we ought to let the Government develop these schemes? Do not let private interests get hold of this and cause bother.

I would point out that two of the sites are under State control.

Does the existing mining legislation apply in these workings?

No, Sir, I do not think it will apply, because these schemes do not employ men underground; they are all on the surface.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that, under the Employers and Workers Act, 1875, miners employed in Consett, County Durham, collieries have been summoned at the local courts for improper absenteeism, and fined the court costs, together with the heavy damages claimed by the colliery companies, the court authorising the retention of the men's wages by the companies in payment of the fines; and why action was not taken under the Essential Work (General Provision) Order?

I am aware that action under the Act in question has been taken in certain cases by certain employers in County Durham. Whether, in a particular case, action should be taken under the Essential Work Order is a matter for consideration in the light of all the circumstances. As it is customary in Durham for the District Production Committee to deal with cases of absenteeism, it would be advisable in the first instance for all employers in that district to carry out the procedure approved by both parties in the industry. If workmen refuse to pay fines imposed under this procedure, it is aways open for employers to resort to the courts.

Is there any expert inquiry made as to whether the amounts claimed from the men are reasonable?

I do not think we can interfere with the courts in this matter.

Will not the Minister of Mines and the Minister of Labour give serious consideration to the possibility that we can get the good will and loyalty of these men much better by not prosecuting them and sending some of them to prison?

Everyone is anxious to obtain the good will of the men, and they know that a very great effort is made to secure that good will.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will press for an early conclusion of the investigations of the Retail Trade Committee, in view of the large number of persons whose plans depend on the action taken in this matter?

The Retail Trade Committee are well aware of the importance which my right hon. Friend attaches to their recommendations being made as soon as possible.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he proposes to take any action to adopt the proposals of the Central Price Regulation Committee to control public auction sales where there is a danger that fixed prices may be grossly exceeded?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can make any statement resultant upon his recent meeting with the chairmen of the Price Control Committees; and whether he is now prepared to alter the machinery of price control so as to fix maximum profits at all stages on the lines recommended by the North Midland Regional Committee?

It is my right hon. Friend's intention to pursue a dynamic policy in controlling prices, and to this end he has discussed with the chairmen of the Central and Local Price Regulation Committees plans for improving the machinery and extending the scope of control, and, in particular, for dealing with the two matters mentioned.

Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that there has been a tremendous delay in coming to a decision on this matter? Is he further aware that the present Minister called the chairmen of these committtees together and took their views, and will he in order to protect the public put an end to this continual procrastination?

My hon. and gallant Friend is completely wrong in thinking there is any procrastination. These extraordinarily complicated matters are being worked out in conjunction and in consultation with the Central Price Regulation Committee, and the decision, when taken, will be a joint decision arrived at by them and the Board of Trade.

If I put a Question down later, can I have an explicit answer?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the shortage of wireless valves, chiefly rectifier valves, which is holding up the repair of thousands of wireless sets often for many months; and, having regard to the desirability of the public having their wireless sets in working order so that they may hear the frequent public announcements made by wireless, whether immediate steps will be taken to release as large a number as possible of these valves to enable the necessary repairs now being held up to be carried out?

The increasing use of radio by the Services has resulted in a very heavy demand for valves. The capacity of the valve industry is being increased as quickly as possible and steps have been taken to obtain supplies from the United States of America. Rectifier valves present special difficulties, but it is hoped to increase the supply of these in the near future.

Does not my hon. and gallant Friend recognise the very great urgency of the matter, not only in connection with calling-up notices being given out on the wireless, but in the event of invasion? Is he aware that many wireless sets have been waiting for valves for four or five months?

I am aware of this, and we are taking steps, as I have indicated in my answer, to deal with it.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can give any information in connection with the charge made against Sergeant E. Collin and Lance-Corporal J. H. Burton, who were charged on Monday, 6th April, at Glasgow, for ill-treating prisoners?

I presume that my hon. Friend is referring to Sergeant Catton and Lance-Corporal Beaton. These two non-commissioned officers were charged with assault on a soldier under arrest.

Will the Financial Secretary inform the House of this man's pre-war civilian record?

I am afraid I cannot give any further information to the House until the case has been reviewed by the Judge Advocate-General.

asked the Minister of Production whether he is aware of the growing difficulty relating to the importation of timber required for this country's industrial needs from distant ports partly due to the shortage of shipping; that there is a prospect of a shortage of timber required for mining props, railway sleepers, wagons, telegraph and transmission poles; and if, in view of this probable shortage, any assistance or protection is being given to stimulate this country's timber production to meet probably increasing demands during the current year?

Yes, Sir. The right hon. Gentleman can be assured that the imperative need of saving shipping is fully realised. The Home Timber Production Department of the Ministry of Supply is making every effort to increase production of home-grown timber both directly and through the timber trade. This year we hope to have half a million tons more than in 1941.

asked the Minister of Health whether he can give any information in connection with the charge made against the proprietor of the Tonic Company, West Kensington, for selling useless tonics at 5s. 9d., which only cost a 1d., which contained 99 per cent. of water; and what action he intends taking in the matter?

I have seen reports of proceedings against the firm referred to, and I understand that they were taken by the food and drugs authority for the area in question. My right hon. Friend is making inquiries of the authority.

asked the Minister of Supply how much shipping space is being saved by the 10 per cent. voluntary cut in newspapers?

The cut of 10 per cent. in permitted newsprint consumption by newspapers is equivalent to a reduction of 26,000 tons a year in imports.

Does it not follow that, as display advertisements take up approximately 25 per cent. of the space of a newspaper, there will be a saving of something like 60,000 tons of shipping space if display advertisements are discontinued? Will the Minister consider taking steps to stop display advertisements?

Is the Minister aware that he will stop newspapers if he stops these display advertisements?

asked the Minister of Supply (1) whether he can state the tonnage of paper and cardboard licensed by the Paper Controller for coating from the introduction of Control of Paper (No. 14) Order, on 2nd June, 1940, to the termination of the eighth licensing period on 28th February, 1942, and which, after coating, it is possible to resell without any control of price;

(2) whether he has any information as to the tonnage of coated paper and cardboard which has been used for necessary war purposes; whether he is aware that much of this material has been sold at £50 to £60 a ton; and whether he will take steps to prevent these high prices?

I regret that I cannot give without much labour the statistics asked for. I have no reason to suppose that the prices charged are unreasonable, but I shall be glad to consider any evidence that my hon. Friend can give me.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that, under instructions issued by his Ministry since 21st January, the Slough Borough Council has been directed to hand over all kitchen waste to the Smithfield Animal Products, Limited, at Stanwell; that this arrangement is resented by the farmers of South Buckinghamshire, who had, since May, 1941, collected the swill for pig-feeding and been urged to instal plants for its sterilisation; that the system is wasteful as it involves additional haulage; that users are by it compelled to pay considerably higher prices to a company which has recently declared a dividend of 16 per cent. as compared with 12½ per cent. in the previous year; and will he look into the matter and permit the farmers to revert to the previous practice?

The direction was given in September last in accordance with the Government's policy of ensuring, so far as possible, that kitchen waste should be sterilised and concentrated before distribution to stock feeders so as to minimise the risk of animal disease. It is considered that the necessity for preventing disease outweighs the transport disadvantages. As from 1st May next, concentrated kitchen waste of standard quality will be on sale at a reduced price which the Ministry of Agriculture regard as reasonable. I am informed that only a very small proportion of the company's profits last year were derived from kitchen waste, their main activities being in other directions.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this firm now charges the users of this concentrated swill as much as £5 a ton, whereas they used to get it from Slough for 36s. a ton?

As I have said, the price is now being reconsidered.

asked the Minister of Supply, in how many cases his Department have guaranteed bank overdrafts in respect of businesses manufacturing for his Department; and the amount of loans so guaranteed and the rate of interest paid on such loans.

Ten, Sir; of which seven, aggregating £116,500, are outstanding. The rate of interest normally payable by the contractor in such cases is 3 per cent.

Is the right hon. Gentleman taking steps to reduce the rate?

Within this interest rate there is a good deal of work done by the banks on behalf of the Ministry of Supply which is quite beyond ordinary banking business, and the rate in all the circumstances is regarded as eminently reasonable.

In view of the fact that under this arrangement apparently industries can pay only 3 per cent. on their loans, will a general instruction go out to the banks that all work should be done on the basis of 3 per cent.?

asked the Minister of Supply (1) why no consultation took place with representative tyre dealers, factors, repair agencies and road transport undertakings before announcing the Tyre Control Scheme;

(2) why the most efficient tyre sales and maintenance firms have been refused licences for the sale of new tyres and preference given to those who have previously dealt primarily in new motor-cars and tyres, and have little experience in repairing and servicing tyres?

The outline of the Tyre Control Scheme was communicated to the representatives of the seven associations in the tyre trade before being brought into force and was not objected to by them. The list of authorised tyre depots was issued in order that the scheme of distribution might be brought into operation forthwith, and the associations are being consulted as to whether any revision is desirable.

Will the right hon. Gentleman carry out a revision if it can be shown that a better scheme can be brought into operation?

Certainly.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food how many British Restaurants there are in Lancashire; the number of meals being served weekly; how many applications for other restaurants are being dealt with; and when will they be completed?

There are now 50 British Restaurants, serving approximately 125,000 meals per week, operated by local authorities in Lancashire. Plans for a further 21 British Restaurants have been approved, and 36 additional schemes are under consideration. Local authorities are also operating 18 cooking depots providing approximately 72,000 meals per week. A further 3 cooking depots have been completed but are not yet in day-to-day operation, and sites for additional 15 cooking depots have been arranged. Sites for a further 12 cooking depots which it is intended to establish have yet to be found. The restaurants and cooking depots now under construction are in varying stages of completion. The dates on which they will be ready for operation cannot be stated.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware of the quickly-growing needs of the people in the North Staffordshire area for additional feeding facilities; and what action is being taken in consultation with the local authorities?

I am aware that there is an unsatisfied demand for British Restaurant facilities in the North Staffordshire area. Officers of the Ministry of Food are co-operating with local authorities in order to secure at the earliest possible date the opening of six British Restaurants and one cooking depot for which plans have already been approved. Schemes for British Restaurants in two additional towns are also in preparation.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he can make any statement as to the progress of his recent efforts to speed up the supply of equipment for British Restaurants?

I have been in close consultation with my Noble Friend the Minister of Works and Buildings, and we have taken active steps to co-ordinate all demands for restaurant equipment, to achieve standardisation of specifications, and to ensure a steady flow of production. The pool of equipment established by this Ministry is being increased from 22 to about 160 items and will now include practically everything necessary for fitting up a British Restaurant. Owing to very heavy demands for equipment for British Restaurants and canteens and to the general difficulty of production in war-time, the supply position is not yet altogether satisfactory, but is improving. My Noble Friend and I are keeping the position under continuous review.