asked the Minister of Labour what are the numbers of men discharged from the Forces who have completed their basic training in plastering at a Government training centre; what are the numbers of such men who have been placed for further training with an employer in the scheme; and what is the average period of delay between the completion of basic training and the commencement of further training.

I have not yet completed my inquiries but if my hon. Friend will repeat his Question next week I should be able to provide the information.

asked the Minister of Labour in how many cases have resettlement grants been made to ex-Servicemen who were owners of one-man businesses.

The number of resettlement grants made to former owners of one-man businesses (including partner- ships of the types eligible for consideration under the Scheme) up to 3rst October, 1946, was 10,738.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is satisfied that the support by both the Board of Trade and the Ministry of Supply of an application for deferment of an apprentice in a highly-skilled occupation on the grounds of the national importance of his work is of sufficient importance to warrant such deferment; and whether he will give favourable reconsideration of the application made in relation to Peter Harbot, of Leicester, by the hon. Member for Leicester, West.

As regards the first part of the Question, the final decision must rest with the Ministry of Labour. I gave the most careful consideration to this application in the light of all the representations made and reached the conclusion that the retention of this young man of 20 years of age in civilian life, at the expense of delaying the release of someone else in the Forces, could not be justified. I have reviewed the matter and reached the same conclusion.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how the terms of trade at the present time compare with those in 1938.

On the indices of export and import values for the third quarter of 1946, the terms of trade were 6 per cent. worse than in 1938.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why approximately £1,000 has had to be paid in Purchase Tax for the Swedish Home Exhibition at the Building Centre, in view of the fact that the furniture and furnishing exhibits are not for sale but only lent and are to be returned to Sweden; and what action he is proposing to take to refund this money to the promoters of the exhibition.

There is no legal provision under which these exhibits could be admitted without payment of Purchase Tax but my right hon. Friend has authorised repayment when the goods are re-exported.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the loss to the Exchequer of the duty on beer, up to date, and his estimate of such loss for the whole year due to the restriction in output.

About £24 million and £45 million, respectively.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he has considered the resolution from the Convention of Royal Burghs asking for a reduction in the interest rates of 4½ to 5½ per cent. which local authorities are, under growing difficulties, having to pay on long-term prewar housing loans from the Public Works Loan Board; and what answer he proposes to make.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what answer he has given to the representations of the Convention of Royal Burghs concerning rates of interest on prewar long-term housing loans made by the Public Works Loan Board.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he has considered the resolution passed by the Convention of Royal Burghs concerning the rates of interest chargeable to local authorities on long-term prewar housing loans from the Public Works Loan Board; and what answer he proposes to make.

My right hon. Friend has taken note of the representations made in this resolution. The question of relief to existing borrowers may arise under the law on the redemption of Local Loans Stock, but it would be premature to hold out hopes.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, when making up his Budget next year, he will consider granting the same Income Tax allowance to a bachelor over 3o years of age as is given to a widower without children.

I note the hon. Member's suggestion but he will not expect me to deal with suggestions for changes in the tax law in advance of my Budget.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the Inland Revenue authorities at Llandudno are sending to former members of His Majesty's Forces claims in respect of tax due on Service pay for periods as far back as the financial year 1943–44; that no figures are issued to show how the amount of tax is calculated and that in some cases the amount of tax claimed exceeds the amount of the standard rate; that inspectors of taxes have been instructed to collect these claims through Pay As You Earn deductions; and whether, in view of these facts, he will take steps to ensure that all such claims are accompanied by details of the assessment and that no deductions are made through Pay As You Earn until the ex-Serviceman has been given time to appeal against the assessment.

It is not the practice to collect such underpayments of tax for previous years without giving the taxpayer a full explanation of the underpayment and an opportunity of appealing. If the hon. Member knows of any case in which this has not been done, and will let me have particulars, I will look into it.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that under the new National Insurance Act proposals for the retirement pension age is 65 years, he will consider continuing to that age all employment of temporary civil servants instead of making their retirement compulsory at 6o years of age.

No, Sir. There is no upper age-limit to the employment of temporary civil servants. Departments continue to employ staff beyond age 60 in all cases where they are willing to remain and are fully fit and efficient in their grade and where there is real need to retain their services.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether it is intended to reduce the pensions of civil servants as a result of the introduction of higher national insurance pensions.

No change is contemplated for existing civil servants. As to future entrants the National Whitley Council and the Treasury are now considering this, but I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury when the Customs and Excise propose to release a parcel despatched on 24th June, 1946, by Avoca Handweavers to Miss M. King, 13, Malden Hill Gardens, New Malden, Surrey, to which his attention has already been drawn.

It has been released.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury how many applications to the Capital Issues Committee have been received from agricultural interests; how many have been refused; and on what grounds.

This information is not readily available. If the hon. and gallant Member has any particular case in mind I will be glad to look into it.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury to what extent Government printed propaganda, issued in the form of booklets, pamphlets, handbills and posters, is printed by H.M.S.O. and by independent printers, respectively; and, in the latter case, whether orders are decided by competitive estimates or prepared on a cost plus basis from selected firms.

The printing of Government publications is mainly performed by independent printers working to the instructions of the Stationery Office on orders placed as the result of competitive tenders.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury who were the printers of "The Battle of the Atlantic"; why does this official C.O.I. publication bear no imprint; and whether he will take steps to see that this breach of the regulations is not repeated in respect to other Government publications.

The printers were Whitefriars Press, Ltd. It was published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, as appears on the face of it. No regulation has been broken.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, as owing to the cruelty involved the importation of osprey plumage has been prohibited since 1921, he will also prohibit its sale in this country, in view of the fact that any now sold must be illegally imported.

Inquiry has not produced any evidence that osprey plumage is in fact being sold in this country and there appears, therefore, to be no necessity for the action desired by my hon. Friend.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what jute stocks he had in hand when price controls were removed in India; and how long these stocks are likely to suffice for this country.

On 1st October, 1946, stocks of raw jute in the United Kingdom amounted to 79,396 tons. This is equivalent to 10 months' consumption at the present rate. In addition, there were some 17,000 tons afloat, or bought but not yet shipped. On the same day stocks of Indian-made jute goods in the United Kingdom, amounted to 49,103 tons of all types, equal to an average of 6¼ months' consumption at present levels. In addition, there were some 43,000 tons afloat, or purchased for future shipment from India.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if the Catering Wages Commission has vet completed its inquiry into hotel and boarding house charges for holiday board and lodging; and if he will publish the report of its inquiry.

The reply to the first part of the Question is in the negative; the second part does not, therefore, arise.

asked the President of the Board of Trade in view of the continued shortage of gas mantles, particularly in the Birmingham area where homes are in a semi-blackout continuously, if any assurance of improvement of supplies in the near future will be given.

I am glad to say that there has been a marked increase in the output of gas mantles in the last two months, and I hope that, with the aid of imports, there will be improved supplies generally from now on.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that it is impossible to obtain furniture with permits in Birmingham without a delay of six months; and if he will take steps to ease the position.

I am not aware of any particular delay in the delivery of utility furniture in Birmingham. On the contrary, a number of manufacturers are able to supply furniture for immediate delivery. If my hon. Friend will let me have details of any individual complaint, I shall be glad to examine it.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has considered representations from the committee of the Welsh Rugby Union and the secretary of the Rugby Union of England and Wales complaining of the small number of coupons allowed to the Union; if he is aware that only ·35 of a coupon per player is given and that 14 coupons are required for a complete outfit; and if he will see that this number is increased.

The Board of Trade has made an allocation of coupons for Rugby Union football, and I understand that the Secretaries of the Welsh Rugby Union and English Rugby Union have both written to express their appreciation of the help given. No complaints have been received since then.

asked the President of the Board of Trade why the 26 coupons promised to ex-Servicemen in August of this year have not yet been issued to them; and when the issue of those extra coupons can be expected.

On 19th June I informed my hon. Friend the Member for Maldon (Mr. Driberg) that the issue of 26 coupons to those demobilised between 18th June, 1945, and the end of 1945 would be made this month. The issue will start next Monday.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the number of clothing coupons issued to Italians visiting this country on short business or holiday visits.

Clothing coupons are normally issued only to those who are staying for more than a month. No distinction is made between Italians and other nationals.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether in view of the partial relaxation of austerity production, manufacturers of china table ware will he permitted to produce a modest proportion of articles of standard design so as to replenish supplies depleted by wear and tear.

I regret that, until the production of plain ware shows a substantial increase, the restrictions on the production of non-standard or decorated pottery must be maintained in the interests of securing the maximum production and the widest distribution.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what arrangements have been made for the purchasing of bedroom suites from European countries; the total value; and from what respective countries.

Arrangements have been made to purchase 60,000 bedroom suites from European countries. The total sum to be paid to the foreign suppliers is £2,028,750. Thirty thousand of the suites are coining from Czechoslovakia, 20,000 from Holland and 10,000 from Poland.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is in a position to state when the survey of the plant capacity of the cotton industry will be completed.

No, Sir. The replies to the questionnaire addressed to spinning mills are now being collated, but the volume of information is so large and complex that this work must necessarily take some time. The preparation of similar surveys of the doubling and weaving sections is well advanced.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total number of building projects for new factories and extensions, giving separate figures for projects in development areas as at 31st October, 1946, and the number completed with approximate figures of additional employment provided.

The total number of new factory buildings and extensions to existing factories (5,000 square feet and over) approved up to 30th September, 1946, the latest date for which information is available, is 2.236, to provide additional employment for approximately 340,000, of whom 190,000 are expected to be males and 150,000 females. Of these schemes, 901 are in the development areas and should eventually provide employment for 100,000 men and 101,000 women. Forty schemes have been completed in the development areas and should provide additional employment for some 5,400 persons.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, during the talks now being carried on with the French Trade Delegation in respect of the £100,000,000 owing to this country, it will be made clear that we wish to import those raw materials of which France is said to possess adequate supplies and that we are not prepared to accept large quantities of luxury manufactures.

Yes, Sir. At the meetings between British and French officials recently held in London, the British representatives made it clear that we attach importance to obtaining increased quantities of essential goods from France and the French Empire, of a number of which we are already getting substantial supplies. We were, however, also able to agree to a limited increase in the imports of certain goods of a less essential type, in accordance with the policy set out in the reply which my right hon. and learned Friend gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield (Mr. Ernest Davies) on 21st October.

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many of the 140,000 poles at present held by his Department are suitable for either high tension or low tension electricity carrying purposes.

About 30,000, which are held in stock by the Post Office.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that for the period July, August and September there was a cut of 10 per cent. on the previous allocation of timber to the furniture industry and that a further 25 per cent. cut is now contemplated; and if he will state the amount of unemployment which this further reduction of the supply in raw material will cause to the industry.

I am aware that the allocation of hardwood to the furniture industry in the current quarter is 25 per cent, less than the allocation for the second quarter of this year, and that this is likely to lead, though not immediately, to some unemployment. I am afraid, however, that it is not possible to make any direct comparison between the quantities of materials issued and the labour required to manufacture furniture from these materials.

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent it is proposed to import baby carriages from abroad; how many potential manufacturers in this country only await the necessary materials; and whether he is satisfied that it would not be more economic to manufacture these carriages in this country.

We have so far received applications to import 2,282 perambulators which will make a small but welcome contribution towards easing the present shortage in this country. The production of perambulators has, in some cases, been held up by delays in the delivery of materials, particularly steel, but, in cooperation with the export group for the industry, we are doing all we can to cure these and to prevent them recurring in the future. There is no shortage of push-chairs, and these are not being imported.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take steps to remedy the shortage of perambulators in the Northwich area of Cheshire.

The output of prams continues to improve, but supply is still short of demand. I am not aware that the Northwich area is getting less than its fair share of what is available, but I am having an investigation made.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take household towels off the clothes ration and allow some of the large stocks of priority sheets and blankets to be sold without dockets, to avoid unnecessary hardship to poorer families during the coming winter.

No, Sir. It is necessary to retain control in order to ensure fair distribution so long as supplies are scarce. The proportion of sheets and blankets reserved against dockets is subject to constant review, and I can assure the hon. Member that the system will not be retained longer than is necessary to provide for the minimum needs of the priority classes.

asked the President of the Board of Trade why hosiery production figures for July and August are not included in the October monthly Digest of Statistics.

The shortage of clerical staff both among manufacturers and at Hosiery Control was responsible for the delay in sending in and collating production figures for July and August. They will appear in the "Board of Trade Journal" for 23rd November.

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he proposes to make a statement on the trade talks now proceeding between representatives of the United Kingdom and others of the United Nations;(2) whether he proposes to make a statement on the recent trade talks between representatives of the United Kingdom and the Dominions and Colonies.

My right hon. and learned Friend hopes to take an early opportunity of making a statement on the meeting, which will shortly terminate, of the Preparatory Committee of the International Conference on Trade and Employment, now in session in London.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in the trade talks now proceeding between the United Kingdom and the U.S. Governments, special attention is being paid to the proposals contained in the Suggested Charter for an International Trade Organisation of the United Nations that the existing preferential arrangement between the U.S.A. and Cuba shall be excepted from the discussions on the elimination of preferences; and what is the policy of His Majesty's Government on this proposal.

I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the relevant passage in the Draft Charter for an International Trade Organisation as published by the United States Government shortly before the present session of the Preparatory Committee met. I think that the hon. Member will agree that the wording of this passage in relation to preferences in force exclusively between the United States and Cuba does not bear the precise interpretation which he has put upon it.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will consider giving special coupons for household linen in order to alleviate the hardships and inconveniences of housewives.

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Fairfield (Mr. Moody) on 21st October.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the legislation which it is proposed to introduce to deal with working party reports will involve dealing with the cotton, footwear, hosiery and pottery industries together in one Bill; or whether separate Bills will be introduced to deal with each industry.

The legislation foreshadowed in the Gracious Speech will consist of a single Bill of a general character, which will enable effect to be given to certain of the recommendations of the working parties, such as the establishment of central bodies for particular industries and the provision of funds for them by means of levies. I would ask my hon. Friend to await the introduction of the Bill for further details.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the tenants of prefabricated temporary houses are finding that the dockets allowed for curtain material provide only 11 yards of 48-inches wide material, which is insufficient to cover the windows of these houses and ensure some degree of privacy; and whether he will be prepared to increase this allowance.

The docket entitles the holder to buy 15 square yards of rationed curtain material, and a further quantity may be bought on surrendering coupons. The supply position does not justify an increase in this allowance, but other curtain materials, which can be bought without dockets, are available both on the ration and coupon free.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what facilities are given to the Anglo-French art centre in St. John's Wood, N.W.8, to import and sell French pictures denied to other recognised art dealers.

Licences have been granted to the art centre mentioned by the hon. Member to import pictures for exhibition only under a guarantee that all the pictures are re-exported at the close of the exhibition. Similar facilities are open to other recognised art dealers.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, in the interests of hygiene, he will authorise to hairdressers a coupon-free issue of hairdressing gowns and shaving towels.

Hairdressing gowns are already coupon-free and the Board of Trade have recently issued coupons to makers-up for the purchase of material which should lead to production on a substantial scale. Some little time ago, a distribution of towels, including some smaller towels, was made to hairdressers from accumulated stocks. We are not in a position to repeat this concession.

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) the total U.S. imports of raw materials from the British Commonwealth and Empire over the years 1932–38, inclusive;(2) the total U.S. imports from the British Commonwealth and Empire for the years 1932 to 1938, inclusive.

The total imports of merchandise into the United States from British countries during the years 1932 to 1938 inclusive were valued at 4,740 million dollars, of which commodities classified as "crude materials," other than foodstuffs, amounted to 1,447 million dollars, equivalent to £1,003,800,000 and £303,500,000 respectively.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will make available to the public a substantial increase in the proportion of woollen as compared with cotton underclothes now that winter has come.

Production plans for winter underwear have to be made early in the year, and the ratio between cotton and woollen underwear must be largely governed by the proportion of yarns available. Production of woollen underwear for this winter has been kept at the highest level which supplies of wool yarn will permit, and exports have been closely restricted. The position should be rather better than last year.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that, on 7th October, Victor Products, Limited, Wallsend, wrote to his Department pointing out that they had received large orders in France for mining machinery which had to he reduced owing to the lack of sterling in France to complete the purchases; that arising out of this financial position a large export trade is being crippled; and if he will take steps to overcome this so that this company can develop this export business for the present with a view to maintaining in the future.

The firm have been informed that we are making inquiries of the French Government about their import policy for these products. It must be borne in mind, however, that France, like ourselves, has many competing essential claims on her foreign exchange resources.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT the exact wording of the agreement made with the Malayan rubber planters for the bulk purchase of their product.

No such agreement has been made with Malayan rubber planters for the bulk purchase of their product. Up to 5th May last, stocks of rubber and new production in Malaya were purchased by a rubber purchasing unit in Malaya on behalf of the Board of Trade. Since that date, purchases have been made by the Board of Trade through the normal commercial channels. One of the terms agreed with U.S. representatives in June was that the Government of the United Kingdom would be prepared to buy at all times for shipment up to the end of the year any rubber offered to it from British Far Eastern sources at the price of 23½ U.S. cents per pound f.o.b. Far Eastern port. This undertaking has been kept.

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the hon. and gallant Member for Solihull can expect an answer to his letter of 12th October, 1946, in respect of Mr. F. C. Boyer, 16, Brook Lane, Olton.

I have written to the hon. and gallant Member about this case.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) if he is aware of the difficulty and expense which confront the Scottish dependants who have to prove the deaths of sailors in the Merchant Navy reported missing; and if he will introduce legislation under which the courts in Scotland will be empowered to accept as proof of such deaths the certificates of the appropriate shipowners;(2) if he is aware that legal difficulties relating to inheritance, succession and the like, have arisen in Scotland owing to the absence of statutory authority enabling the sheriffs of Scotland to accept as proof of death certificates from the Admiralty, War Office, or Air Ministry, that a sailor, soldier or airman, is reported missing; and if he will take steps to provide such authority.

The provision made by the Confirmation of Executors (War Service) (Scotland) Act, 1940, is limited to persons missing during the "war period," which ended with the expiration of the Emergency Powers (Defence) Act, 1939. I shall, of course, be ready to consider any evidence which my hon. and learned Friend may submit as to the need for further provision but with the present pressure of the legislative programme I could not undertake to introduce early legislation.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total number of unsatisfied applications for smallholdings in the crofting counties of Scotland and the counties of Ross and Cromarty, respectively.

The total numbers as at 31st October, 1946, of unsatisfied applications for smallholdings in the crofting counties and in the county of Ross and Cromarty are 3,385 and 801, respectively.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many new teachers will be required in Scotland to meet the demand of the higher school leaving age; and how many are at present being trained for this purpose.

On the assumption that 2,000 married women and retired teachers will continue in service, it is estimated that 2,300 additional teachers will be required to meet the needs arising from the raising of the school leaving-age during the period April, 1947, to September, 1948. For this purpose, and also to make good the various losses resulting from the war, 3,139 applicants have already been accepted for training under the emergency Scheme; of these 1,320 are at present in training.

asked the Minister of Pensions why he does not use the discretion accorded to him by paragraph 65 of the Royal Warrant of April, 1946, in favour of the widow of an officer of the H.G. killed on duty by a grenade in 1942, and allow his widow's pension to start from the date of his death, instead of from the date of her application.

If the hon. and gallant Member will let me have particulars to enable me to identify the case he has in mind, I will look into it and write to him.

asked the Minister of Pensions why the case of Mr. L. McLaren, 68, St. Benets Grove, Carshalton, who is suffering from cerebral tumour, is not being brought forward for a re-hearing, in the light of his announcement to the House on 25th July last, when fresh evidence is available that this complaint is directly related to an accident sustained while in the Service.

The position in this case was set out fully in my letter of 29th October to the hon. and gallant Member. Mr. McLaren's application and a medical certificate were received on 9th November. In his application Mr. McLaren attributes his disability to two circumstances to which he now refers for the first time. The necessary inquiries will be made as quickly as possible and if rejection has to be maintained, arrangements will be made for early reference of the case to the special Arbitration Tribunal.

asked the Minister of Pensions if he will alter the rule which prevents an officer or man from receiving an allowance for his wife if he has married her more than 10 years after his disability.

I have recently received certain further representations on this matter, which I am considering.

asked the Minister of Pensions whether there is any possibility of an increase in the pensions payable to war widows in order to bring them into line with the increased cost of living, having special regard to those widows unable to work and supplement their pensions.

No, Sir. The pension rates for other ranks' widows, where the widow is over 40, or incapable of self-support, or has a child, were increased as recently as last February, and the maximum rent allowance payable to a widow who has a child was also increased. In 1919, such a widow received a pension of 26s. 8d. a week. Today she gets 35s. od. a week. If she had two children she received in all 44s. 2d. a week. She now gets at least 57s. od. a week and, according to the rent she is paying, she may receive up to 72s. od. a week.

asked the Minister of Pensions if he will give the number of cases listed for hearing in front of the independent appeal tribunals since 1st August, 1946; the number of cases which have been withdrawn; the number of those withdrawn in which a pension has subsequently been allowed; and the number of cases which have been heard in which the claims have been allowed since 1st August, 1946.

The number of cases listed for hearing by the Pensions Appeal Tribunals since 1st August, 1946, is somewhat over 11,000. About 50 cases have been withdrawn by appellants and about 1,750 by the Ministry for further consideration. Pension has been granted in 18o of the cases withdrawn by the Ministry, and attributability has been allowed in 340 cases where pension was already in payment on the basis of aggravation. Two thousand, one hundred and eighty-six cases have been allowed by the Tribunals since 1st August, 1946.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many applications to marry German girls have been received in B.A.O.R.

Up to 31st October, 836 applications had been received.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that locally-born wives of British soldiers overseas who occupy quarters under Families Scheme B are still required to pay 10s. per day for treatment in a military hospital; and when and how he intends to remove this inequality.

Wives of non-Regular soldiers are eligible for free treatment in military hospitals only when they proceed to overseas stations under the approved arrangements for families, as I explained to the hon. and gallant Member on 15th October. This concession does not extend to locally-born wives of non-Regular soldiers who are expected to make use of local civilian hospitals if possible: a charge is made if they are admitted to military hospitals.

asked the Secretary of State for War what proportion of the Regular officers serving in the Brigade of Guards was commissioned from the ranks.

32.4 per cent., Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that young men under 21 years of age who are already married and are earning livings to keep their wives and children are now being called up and given no allowances whereby their families can be maintained; and whether, in the interests of the nation and increasing the population, he will take steps to put this matter right.

asked the Secretary of State for War what financial provision he will make for wives of men under 21 years of age who are married before call-up.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the hardship caused to many wives of young soldiers under 21 years of age as a result of an order recently passed refusing marriage allowance to these wives; and, as it is undesirable to submit these wives to a means test before any help can be given, if he will suspend this order until the Army is on a peace-time footing.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will reconsider the question of marriage allowances for wives of men under 21 years of age, in view of the Government's intention to put conscription on a permanent basis.

There is at present provision for a married soldier under 21 who is not eligible for a marriage allowance to claim a war service grant if he is a non-Regular or a service grant if he is a Regular. The scheme for dealing with applications for these grants is now working satisfactorily. The conditions of service, including provision to be made for families, of the men to be called up in peace-time are now being examined.

asked the Secretary of State for War what steps he is taking to maintain the pregnant wife of a young soldier, whose name has been communicated to him, who has been denied a married allowance on the ground that the soldier is under the married age permitted by Army Regulations; and whether he will see that the full married rate is paid as from the date of application.

A non-Regular soldier under the age of 21 who is married and was not receiving a marriage allowance at the end of June may claim a war service grant from the Ministry of Pensions. In deciding whether or not such a grant may be paid, the Ministry of Pensions, I understand, give consideration not only to the soldier's earnings and commitments in civil life, but also to all other relevant factors. The soldier in question, if he has not already done so, should submit an application for a grant.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now able to state what arrangements have been made between his Department and the Ministry of Pensions to ensure immediate payment of a marriage grant when married men below 21 years of age are called to the Forces.

My right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions is, I understand, doing everything possible to ensure that applications for war service grants are dealt with speedily.

asked the Secretary of State for War what steps are being taken to provide other ranks with kitbags having a cloth or cord handle on the side or some form of grip or strap, so that kitbags can be carried horizontally.

A new and improved pattern of kitbag with handles which will enable it to be carried horizontally has been designed and we intend to provide and issue this pattern as stocks of the old pattern are used up. It should come into use during 1947.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that, despite the hope he expressed on 16th July, 1946, the beach at Happisburgh. Norfolk, is still obstructed by military defence works; and how soon their removal will be completed.

The minefields referred to in the answer given to the hon. Member on 16th July last were found to be more extensive than was expected but they have now been cleared. The clearance of other defence works, a task which is normally carried out by the local authority, has consequently been held up but the matter is now being looked into.

asked the Secretary of State for War what steps are being taken against those responsible for keeping Private H. M. Johnson for nine months in close arrest in a small cell in India whilst investigating charges which were made in March and were followed by summaries of evidence in July and on 9th October; why he was not put under open arrest many months ago; when he will be brought to trial; why his personal letters to England are opened; and what steps will be taken against those who have lost his brief case containing money and personal documents which might be helpful in his defence if he is brought to trial.

I am not yet in a position to give a full reply, but my hon. Friend the Financial Secretary will discuss this case while in India on his present visit. I have asked him to let me have an early report.

asked the Secretary of State for War what was the date of the alleged offence with which Lieut. K. A. Gourley, R.A.O.C., was charged at a court martial opened on 28th October, 1946; and how many days this officer was under arrest pending his court martial.

I have called for full information on these points and will write to the hon. Member.

asked the Secretary of State for War why 2320535 Sergeant C. W. Pask, 3 Squadron, I.H.Q. Signal Regiment, B.A.O.R., who has been recommended for home posting, is being retained as permanent mess caterer for the sergeants' mess on the grounds that this is operationally vital.

The hon. Member has been misinformed. Sergeant Pask is not being retained as a permanent sergeants' mess caterer. This appointment is one taken in turn by all sergeants in a unit. Sergeant Pask carried it out from 6th October to 8th November. He is a regular soldier who has not yet qualified for repatriation under the Python scheme. He was nominated as suitable for an appointment in this country, subject to a replacement being available. As a replacement could not be provided, he remains in B.A.O.R.

asked the Secretary of State for War why the telegram to Mrs. Cowburn, telling her of the dangerous illness of her husband, T/14687234 Driver A. E. Cowburn, R.A.S.C., was delivered to her at midnight on the day following her receipt of a letter conveying the same information; and why she was not notified of the progress of her husband's condition from 5th October, when she was notified that he had been placed on the seriously ill list, until 30th October.

I cannot trace any telegram sent to Mrs. Cowburn notifying her of her husband's dangerous illness. A letter with this information was sent to her on 21st September, and the next communication from the Record Office was a telegram sent on 24th September in reply to one of her's saying that no further news had been received. I gave an answer to the second part of the Question on 5th November.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will increase the old scale clothing allowance of £2 4s. granted to Service personnel discharged from the Service prior to 16th October, 1944, to as applicable to soldiers discharged after that date.

Men discharged in the period immediately before 16th October, 1944, received either a civilian outfit of the scale provided at the time or a cash allowance of £2 15s 9d. Those who were invalided and sent home in the winter months, if they did not already possess a civilian overcoat, could in addition receive an overcoat or a cash grant of £2 4s. The increased scale of clothing which first became available on 16th October, 1944, could not be issued to men discharged before that date and equally it would be impracticable to increase the cash grant retrospectively.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will investigate the food and welfare conditions of S Company, 2nd Battalion, D.C.L.I., stationed in Greece, with a view to their improvement.

I have called for a report and will write to the hon. Member.

asked the Secretary of State for War to what extent it is contemplated retaining or expanding the civic and cultural aspects of education in the Army.

I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement made by my predecessor during the Debate on 27th June, in the course of which he outlined plans for Army Education. The plans, which include extensive provision for civic and cultural education are in process of being implemented.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will now make a full statement, including details of the court-martial findings, regarding the case in which a German boy, Andreas Noterski, met his death by shooting at the hands of Captain Colin R. Park of the Black Watch and Lieutenant John Armstrong of the 11th Hussars, who are serving officers in the British zone of Germany.

My information is that on 3rd August these two officers drove out into the country in an armoured car. When they came to a deserted part of the countryside, one of the officers fired the machine gun. A boy who was walking with his mother along the road, out of sight, was hit. The officers were court-martialled on 7th October on a charge of manslaughter, were found guilty, and were both sentenced to be cashiered. The sentence was promulgated on 8th November.

asked the Secretary of State for War why release benefits are not granted to Polish troops who returned to Poland before 22nd May, where the Polish soldier concerned is able to establish his service with the British Forces and makes an application to obtain such benefits.

I would refer my hon. Friend to the full statement of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on 22nd May, to which I have nothing to add.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will make a statement on the training given to conscripts in the Intelligence Corps during the last seven months; and if he is satisfied that both training programmes and prospects of promotion are suitable to those who enlist in that arm of the Service, having regard to the intellectual abilities of most members of it.

Men are not enlisted direct into the Intelligence Corps. The recruit first goes to a primary training centre in the same way as any other recruit. While there he may volunteer to join the Intelligence Corps or be provisionally selected for it by the personnel selection officer, on account of his linguistic or other special qualifications. Potential candidates for the Intelligence Corps are interviewed at the War Office, only volunteers being finally selected. After an average period of three months' primary and basic Infantry training, followed by three months specialist training at Intelligence training establishments, recruits are posted to regimental duty, the majority proceeding overseas, where they normally fill vacancies carrying the rank of corporal. Promotion to sergeant and warrant officer Class II compares favourably with promotion in any other arm, and in certain units up to three-quarters of the rank and file may be sergeants or above.Conscripts who are graded as potential officers are given an opportunity to appear before a War Office Selection Board during their training. Commissions in the Intelligence Corps itself are, however, not normally granted until a candidate has spent six months at regimental duty. In addition to basic military and Intelligence training, the programme includes a wide range of general subjects suited to the intellectual standard of the recruit. I am satisfied that both training and prospects of promotion are well suited to the type of man recruited during the last seven months.

asked the Secretary of State for War why the Army Kinematograph Corporation in North Africa often charges more for admission than the local cinemas; and whether he is satisfied with the service provided by this corporation.

In order to provide entertainment in all commands where this is not adequately catered for by normal civilian cinemas, the Army Kinema Corporation, a non-profit making concern operates often in localities where attendance and receipts are so small that civilian cinemas would find it uneconomical to operate. The loss in such areas has to he made good elsewhere and, therefore, the corporation's charges, which are the same in all commands, do not necessarily bear any relation to local conditions. Thus, cases will inevitably occur, especially where civilian operating expenses are low, in which local cinemas charge less than the corporation. As regards the second part of the Question, I am satisfied with the services provided by the corporation.

asked the Secretary of State for War the approximate date of demobilisation for men who have already served three years, but who are in release Groups 51–58.

I am unable to go beyond the provisional programme which my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour announced on 6th November, which indicated that part of Group 50 would be released from the Army by the end of next June. As regards later groups, it is not at present possible to add to the statement in paragraph 6 of the White Paper "Call up to the Forces in 1947 and 1948" that it will be the aim of the Government to release during 1947 all men called up before 1st January, 1944.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a soldier promoted from the ranks who attains commissioned rank before his 25th birthday is unable to draw a marriage allowance; and whether he will take steps to remove this anomaly.

A married Regular officer with children who is below the age of 25 may claim a service grant if he is below the rank of captain. An emergency commissioned officer in the same position may claim a war service grant. An other rank who is already receiving marriage allowance and is commissioned before he reaches the age of 25 may continue to receive marriage allowance at other rank's rate until he is 25.

asked the Secretary of State for War what is now the total acreage of land held by his Department in Wales under requisition for purposes of Army training grounds, practice camps, camps and schools; and what is his comparative acreage for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

On 1st November there were 3,515 acres requisitioned under Defence Regulation 51 in Wales and Monmouthshire as compared with 210,202 acres in England, 13,471 acres in Scotland and 3,624 acres in Northern Ireland. These figures relate only to training areas, practice camps and Military Training Schools and do not include other camps or Educational Schools, although the figures for these are in similar proportions. Land no longer required for training purposes but held until it has been searched and cleared of unexploded missiles, or which, in the national interest, should have certain works or restoration carried out before being derequisitioned, is, however, included in these figures.

asked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements are made to notify demobilised members of the Territorial Army of the award of the Territorial Efficiency Decoration.

If the individual has applied himself, he is notified by a letter sent to his last known address. If the application was received through a headquarters, the headquarters is notified and is responsible for informing the individual. All awards are published in the "London Gazette" and the notifications I have mentioned include a reference to this publication.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the comfort of the troops at present serving in Palestine would be greatly improved by the provision of the ordinary amenities of permanent and semi-permanent tented camps, such as electric light, pillows, bolsters, sheets and adequate washing-up facilities; and whether he will cause immiedate steps to be taken by those responsible to supply some of these comforts, in order to uphold morale and encourage enlistment.

Approval has already been given for the provision of electric light and over three-quarters of the necessary stores have been sent but it is a major undertaking and completion is governed by the availability of labour. Sheets are now being packed for shipment and we are looking into the supply of bolsters, pillows and pillowslips. We are also seeing if we can improve washing-up facilities.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many British troops are employed in guarding and how many in orderly duties in Athlit camp in Palestine.

I consider that in present circumstances it would be inadvisable to give the information requested.

asked the Secretary of State or War how many men in Groups 44, 45 and 46 serving with 88 Company, R.A.S.C., C.M.F., have had their release deferred.

My information is that up to 31st October two R.A.S.C. other ranks in Group 44 serving in C.M.F. had been deferred and none in Group 45. I cannot say to which specific R.A.S.C. unit the men in Group 44 belong. I have not so far received any notification that R.A.S.C. personnel in C.M.F. of Group 46 which is not due to begin release until 23rd December have been warned for deferment.

asked the Secretary of State for War the percentage of those examined for the Army graded as illiterate and semi-illiterate, respectively, during 1945–46; and the corresponding percentage for 1939, under the Military Training Act, or other data for prewar years.

For the year ended 31st August, 1946, the proportion of semi-illiterates retained in the Army was about 22 per cent. of the intakes. The corresponding figure for illiterates was about 0·4 per cent. No records are maintained of those not retained in the Army. I regret that no comparable data are available for pre-war years when a different system of classification was used.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will cause an immediate investigation to be made into the complaints of certain men of the 13th Parachute Regiment alleging that, as a consequence of the Kluang court martial proceedings, adverse and unwarranted comments as to personal character have been inserted in their discharge papers.

Investigations are being made and if a soldier's military conduct or character has been wrongly assessed the necessary amendment will be made.

asked the Secretary of State for War how many members of the 13th Parachute Battalion whose court martial was quashed have subsequently been penalised by segragation on military transports, transfer to infantry regiments with loss of pay, or adverse reports on release leave certificates, etc.

I am not aware of any special segragation on board ship but I am making inquiries and will write to my hon. Friend. All men in the Parachute Battalion of which the paratroopers referred to were members, were surplus to the requirements of the Army Air Corps, as a result of the normal reduction in that Corps. There is therefore no question of penalisation in the men's transfer back to their former Corps. Loss of parachute pay inevitably follows on a normal transfer of this nature to another arm. With regard to the last part of the Question I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave to a similar Question today by my hon. Friend the Member for Bilston (Mr. Nally).

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether his attention has been drawn to the purchase by the Prudential Assurance Company of the village of Cockington; and what steps he is taking, under his planning powers, to ensure that it is not commercialised.

I am aware of the sale referred to, but I do not think that any special action on my part is necessary at present. Apart from the general powers of control already available to the Torquay Council as the interim development authority, the area is subject to a formal agreement, made with the council under the Town and Country Planning Act, 1932, which secures the preservation of this village.

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what steps are being taken to put the London squares under public ownership and available for public use.

A survey of London squares is in hand as a necessary preliminary to considering the extent to which, in the public interest, the gardens of the squares should remain in private ownership or come under public control. The question of further powers in regard to the squares is also being pursued.

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what new form of control is implied by his announcement that positive action will be taken to prevent Stevenage from becoming a dormitory town; and will this new form of control necessitate legislation.

I am confident that it will be possible to provide for the growth of industry and commerce in Stevenage concurrently with the increase in the population. This process will be reflected in the policy to be followed by the corporation as landlord in granting leases. Without any necessity for fresh legislation these two factors should ensure that Stevenage does not become a dormitory town.

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning how many local residents have been appointed to the Advisory Committee in connection with the proposed new town at Crawley-Three Bridges; and whether he proposes to increase such local representation.

One member of the committee lives at Crawley and another member was born there and is familiar with the district. In making any further appointments which may be necessary, I shall continue to give due weight to the possession of local knowledge, as well as to all other qualifications.

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether he will give an assurance that, at future inquiries under the New Towns Act, he will arrange that his Departmental representatives will submit their case in public with evidence, so that objectors may have an opportunity for criticism and cross-examination.

Before I make an Order under Section 1 of the New Towns Act designating an area as the site of a new town, I have to be satisfied, after consultation with any local authorities who appear to me to be concerned, that to do so is expedient in the national interest. Clearly, I should not promulgate the draft of such an Order unless it appeared to me that this condition was fulfilled. This process necessarily involves much prior consultation with many interests, both national and local. If objections to the Draft Order are received and not withdrawn, a local inquiry must be held and its purpose is to enable me to consider objections in case they reveal something which has been overlooked.I share the hon. Member's desire that the procedure at the inquiry should be such as will best achieve this particular object. I have, therefore, been reviewing the matter and I propose to arrange in future that in addition to my inspector, whose duty it is to report the objections to rile for my consideration, an officer of my Department will attend to explain the proposed project and the reasons which have lead to it. He will be there to explain the proposal, but not to be cross-examined.

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what steps he has taken to ensure that sub- and top-soil removed to obtain sand, gravel, opencast coal and other minerals are placed in proper order so as to restore the fertility and amenities of the districts thus becoming devastated: and how far his Department cooperates with the Ministry of Agriculture in this.

The steps taken for replacement of soil and top-soil vary widely according to the circumstances, but ground which was once fertile is nearly always capable of being restored wholly or nearly to its former productivity. The most difficult cases are those in which filling material is required in order to raise the bottom of the quarry above the natural water table. The question of the availability of such material is under active examination. My Department co-operates closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and investigation is proceeding with a view to improving our present methods.

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power the reason for the continuation of petrol rationing; and when the public may expect the abolition or relaxation of this control

I would refer the hon. Member to the statement I made on 16th July. The question of the abolition of petrol rationing is constantly under review, but in present circumstances I regret that I am not yet able to announce any further relaxations.

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power the reason for the refusal by the regional petroleum officer in Glasgow to Captain Basil Hope-Dunbar, Senwick House, Kirkcudbrightshire, of 500 gallons of petrol for use in his timber sawmill and also for the refusal of an adequate amount of petrol in respect of a tractor owned by him, both of which requests were necessary for agricultural purposes

I am sending the hon. Member particulars of this case.

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much, and what type, of coalmining machinery has been exported to other countries during the past 12 months.

The total numbers of machines exported from this country during the 12 months period ending 31st October, 1946, were as follow:

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power when it is proposed to set up a committee to consider mining subsidence, and whether he can give an assurance that the owners of property affected by such subsidence will be represented on such committee.

With regard to the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Abertillery (Mr. Daggar) on 5th November, of which I am sending him a copy. With regard to the second part, I cannot promise specific representation on the committee of all the many interests concerned. The committee's function will be to give impartial consideration to all aspects of the problem, and I have no doubt that ample facilities will be afforded for the giving of evidence.

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what amount of the electrical equipment and duplicate machinery now standing in docks in South Wales, which was stored for use in emergencies in case of bombing or fire, has been sold abroad; and how it is proposed to dispose of the remainder.

This plant is part of a reserve pool which was built up for war emergencies. Much of it was unsuitable for regular use as plant of normal design. It is now being sold. Some of it has been bought by undertakings in this country, some by foreign countries and some by U.N.R.R.A. The plant which is now lying in docks in South Wales has been sold to U.N.R.R.A. No plant is being sold abroad which could be used to relieve the shortage of generating plant in this country.

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power the average length of time which elapses between the application to the Electricity Commissioners for a licence to purchase poles and the time when the licence is refused or granted.

The average length of time for granting an application to purchase poles varies considerably from time to time according to the supplies of poles available, the number of applications outstanding and the priority accorded to the supply of electricity for which the poles are required.

asked the Minister of Supply why the allocation of high-tension batteries has been withdrawn from makers of hearing aids for the deaf; whether he is aware that in many cases contracts have been entered into with the makers of these hearing aids for the supply of batteries in advance; and whether, in view of the hardship occasioned to hard-of-hearing persons using these aids, he will immediately arrange for the supply of these batteries.

The arrangements for allocating capacity for this purpose were terminated about a year ago in accordance with the general move to end controls which were considered to be no longer necessary. I am aware that arrangements of the kind mentioned in the second part of the Question have been made and we are doing all we can to ensure that adequate supplies are made available.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that it takes over eight weeks to obtain a new pair of spectacle lenses; and what steps he is taking to avoid these delays which cause discomfort and anxiety.

My information is that a delay of eight weeks should occur only on difficult prescriptions. Among the steps which have been taken to increase production are the issue of licences to import plant, the release of skilled workers under Class B and a scheme to attract new recruits into the industry. It will, however, take some time to make good the shortage of highly skilled craftsmen, owing to the long training required.

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster approximately how many civilians have been displaced in the British zone of Germany in order to accommodate troops; and whether the dwelling places and furniture requisitioned will be returned to their civilian tenants and owners when the premises are derequisitioned.

It is impracticable to state how many civilians have been displaced to accommodate troops. De-requisitioned buildings and furniture both come under the control of the German authorities, and I am assured that it is their normal practice to return such property to previous occupants and owners though there may be cases where it is decided to utilise the property to meet more urgent needs.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the total value of British industrial property affected by nationalisation measures introduced, or notified for introduction by foreign Governments since the end of the war; the total value of property in each country concerned; and what action has been taken by His Majesty's Government to ensure that adequate compensation is paid to British owners.