asked the Secretary of State for Air if he will make a statement in regard to the pay and promotion prospects generally of noncommissioned flying instructors.

Non-commissioned flying instructors receive the regular rates of pay (including flying pay) of their rank. They have full opportunities for obtaining commissions. Those serving on regular engagements can apply at any time for a short service commission or, in certain cases, for a permanent commission.

As regards non-commissioned flying instructors recalled from the Reserve for 18 months' whole-time service, I am arranging for a review of each individual case and, where suitable, appropriate commissions will be offered.

Can the right hon. and learned Gentleman say, if a civilian instructor who has been acting as an instructor is killed, whether his widow receives the same consideration as if he were still serving?

I should like notice of that question.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will make a statement on recent fatal accidents involving pilots of jet fighter aircraft; and on how these compare with previous years.

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many crashes of Royal Air Force jet aircraft, in total, and how many involving fatalities to pilots, have occurred in Great Britain during the last six months; and what was the average flying experience with jet aircraft of the pilots involved.

It would be contrary to well-established practice to give detailed statistics, and I regret, therefore, that I cannot give the figures asked for by the hon. Member for Leeds, North-West (Mr. Kaberry). I can say, however, that the number of fatal accidents involving pilots of jet fighter aircraft has been greater during the first six months of 1951 than it was during the first six months of 1950. I would emphasise, however, that the number of jet aircraft in service has greatly increased, in fact four-fold since January, 1949, and the flying effort in terms of flying hours on jet aircraft is three times greater today than it was a year ago.

Taking these factors into consideration, the fatal accident rate for 1951 is so far appreciably lower than the rate for 1950. Moreover, the fatal accident rate for jet fighters during the first six months of 1951 is lower than the lowest rate achieved during any similar period in the life of the Spitfire. The loss of life through these accidents is, however, to be deeply regretted, and I fully realise the public concern which accidents involving jet aircraft must inevitably arouse. Although the problem is one which is continuously under examination in my Department, I have arranged for a special investigation to be made by the Inspector-General of the Royal Air Force in the hope that it may be possible to reduce the accident rate still further.

Could the Minister answer the last part of my Question and say what was the average jet aircraft flying experience of the pilots involved in these accidents?

I cannot answer that question.

Why does the right hon. and learned Gentleman say that it would not be in the public interest to disclose the figures when all the accidents are, I believe, published in the daily Press? Does he not realise that what is required in the opinion of many experts is an intermediate jet trainer? Will he look into this, because the figures are extremely grave?

Ever since the Royal Air Force was formed, under all governments this practice has developed and has been followed.

No.

Yes. As regards the question of the jet trainer, I think it was to the hon. and gallant Gentleman himself that I said two or three weeks ago that we were introducing eventually the jet trainer to which he has just referred.

While I am pleased to hear that the right hon. and learned Gentleman is to undertake a special investigation, could he give us an assurance that operational research is being made all the time into these accidents so that scientific analysis can determine every six months to what they are attributable, and so that steps can be taken to remedy this grave state of affairs?

As the hon. Member may know, there is a special branch of the Air Ministry which deals with this problem.

When the right hon. and learned Gentleman said that it was the intention of the Air Ministry eventually to introduce the intermediate trainer, can he be more explicit? What does the word "eventually" mean?

I said in my reply that it would be introduced next year.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that on 3rd May, 1951, a Royal Air Force aeroplane crashed at Brampton, Huntingdonshire, and seriously damaged four houses at Bell Row, Brampton, rendering four families homeless: that the people concerned are still homeless; that the houses have not been repaired and that no compensation has been paid for damage to household goods; and what steps he is taking to ensure that the houses will be repaired at the earliest opportunity and the people concerned compensated adequately for the damage to their furniture.

I very much regret the damage to property and discomfort to the families concerned which resulted from this unfortunate accident. One of my officials visited the site on the day following the accident, and I am glad to say that out of a total of 11 claims received, 10 have now been paid including all those relating to damage to household goods. No difficulty is foreseen in reaching agreement for the disposal of the remaining claim. It is hoped that the repair work will be commenced shortly.

Could the right hon. and learned Gentleman say how long it will be before the repair work is completed, bearing in mind that what mainly needs to be done is the repair of the roofs of these houses?

The work will be undertaken by a contractor employed by the owner of the property. The only direct concern which my Department has with this work is the fact that the damage was caused by Royal Air Force aircraft.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether the jet-engined transport envisaged as the successor to the Hastings will be able to operate in and out of small emergency airstrips and in conditions of darkness and poor visibility in which it may be essential to operate.

The aircraft which will take the place of the Hastings will be used for long range operations and will not be required to operate in and out of small emergency airstrips. All transport aircraft are required to be able to operate in darkness and poor visibility.

Could the right hon. and learned Gentleman tell us the name of the aircraft which is to succeed the Hastings, and could he please give us some assurance that we are proceeding with the development of suitable aircraft, both from the Airspeed factory and the Blackburn and General Aircraft factory, which could be used for the exact functions detailed in this Question?

The aircraft to be introduced by the Blackburn factory, which the hon. Gentleman has in mind, is a medium range and not a long range air transport aircraft. As regards the first part of the supplementary question, I would refer him to the answer I gave a fortnight ago.

asked the Secretary of State for Air what types of transport aircraft are to be supplied to the Royal Air Force capable of carrying and parachuting vehicles and heavy military equipment and stores.

It is intended to acquire for the Royal Air Force types of transport aircraft capable of carrying and parachuting vehicles, heavy military equipment and stores. The Hastings, which is already in use, can carry and drop by parachute certain vehicles and other military equipment.

My Question really asked what orders had been placed for new types of aircraft. Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there are at least two manufacturers who at present have designs for the kind of aircraft about which I am talking? Is it not high time that the Minister got in touch with his right hon. Friend the Minister of Supply and ordered these aircraft, so that the Royal Air Force will be properly equipped in the near future?

I say, quite frankly and at once, that we have not ordered the aircraft to which the hon. Member is referring. We are, however, already in touch with the Ministry of Supply on this matter, and the matter is under the active consideration of the Air Staff and of the Air Council.

What exactly is meant by the phrase "active consideration," which we are so accustomed to hearing nowadays? Can the Minister be more specific? [ Interruption. ] I do not think hon. Members opposite appreciate the sense of urgency in this matter. I am asking if the Secretary of State can tell the House what is meant by the expression that this matter is "under active consideration." Can we have a reasonable hope that in the not too distant future orders will be placed?

In the last 25 years I have heard that phrase used in the House by hundreds of Ministers. The hon. Member knows perfectly well what it means. I am not trying to hide anything. In fact, a paper dealing with one of these aircraft is to be considered by the Air Council at its meeting very shortly. The hon. Member knows that until the Air Council, representing the Service side as well as the political side, have come to a decision, we cannot place orders for any aircraft.

Does the Minister not realise that the House is not at all clear about this matter? Last week the right hon. and learned Gentleman said that a four-engined jet transport aircraft was under consideration. The Minister of Supply told us the other day that no aircraft had been ordered. We were given the same answer again today. If a Question is put down, will the right hon. and learned Gentleman make a clear statement of what is being done? The House is not satisfied.

The hon. and gallant Member is well acquainted with Air Force matters. He knows perfectly well that I was referring to a four-engined jet aircraft and not to the Blackburn, which is not a four-engined jet machine. Therefore, there is nothing inconsistent between the two statements.

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that while the phrase, "active consideration," has been used in this House for a long time, it is not always associated with a very satisfactory position? Is he able to give a date for when these orders will be made?

In view of the tremendous importance of being able to move troops, armour and modern equipment by air quickly under present war conditions, will the Minister look upon this matter as one of grave urgency and do something about it?

I cannot just wave a wand and do something about it. The production of aircraft is not something which can be done by merely placing an order, as the hon. Member knows. We are well aware at the Ministry of the urgent need for this type of transport, but I cannot mislead the House by suggesting that we are likely to have it in operation in a matter of months.

In view of the fact that I do not regard the answer as entirely satisfactory, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.

asked the Secretary of State for Air what is the outcome of the negotiations with the United States regarding the supply of Sabre jet fighters to this country; and if he will make a statement.

Discussions with the United States on this question are still proceeding, and I regret that I am unable to make a further statement at present.

Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman recall that at the beginning of this year, or even at the end of last year, we had exactly the same answer? Does he not think that in these grave times this country is entitled to have its squadrons properly equipped with the best aircraft available, and has he taken note of what General Vandenberg has said about the Russian fighter? Is this country to lag behind other countries?

I have not seen anything beyond statements in the Press as to what General Vandenberg may have said. Therefore, I cannot deal with that now. As regards the second point, I hope that it will not be suggested that the Meteors and Vampires which are now operated by the Royal Air Force do not compare in some respects—[HON. MEMBERS: "In some respects!"]—with the best aircraft available in some other country. On the other points, I must remind the hon. and gallant Gentleman that we do not control the United States Government. We can only wait until we get agreement with them, and it must not be assumed that the delay is on this side of the Atlantic.

Does the Minister not consider it unsatisfactory when he says that our aircraft compare "in some respects"? Should it not be the aim, and as quickly as possible, that they must compare in all respects?

The hon. Gentleman has had more experience of flying aircraft than I can hope to have, but I am told by those who have great experience, like himself, that there will never be an air force where the aircraft are in all respects superior to the aircraft of any other country.

Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman not agree that, as Great Britain is providing the bases and many facilities for the American forces, we are entitled to get the highest priority from America in equipment to bring our own forces up to date where we are lagging?

I think the hon. and gallant Gentleman knows that there is no one more anxious to secure these aircraft than myself.

asked the Secretary of State for Air what proportion of the average intake of National Service men into the Royal Air Force accepts regular engagements.

I am glad to say that National Service men are undertaking regular engagements in the Royal Air Force in increasing numbers. In the six months ended 30th June, 1951, 18,074 undertook regular engagements on entry. This represents 44 per cent. of the intake in this period. In addition, 1,330 men on whole-time National Service transferred to regular engagements in the same period.

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve schools are still equipped with Tiger Moths; and when it is expected that all Tiger Moths used for flying training will be replaced by Chipmunk or other basic trainers equipped with radio-telephony.

asked the Secretary of State for Air when the Tiger Moth aircraft at present in use for Royal Flying Schools will be completely replaced by Chipmunks.

Ten of the 21 Reserve flying schools are still equipped with Tiger Moth aircraft, but each of the schools is now being provided with a proportion of Chipmunks or Prentices. It is hoped that all Reserve flying schools will be completely supplied with Chipmunks or Prentices before the end of next year.

The end of next year is a very long time ahead, and is it not a fact that many of the Chipmunks are being sent to schools overseas? Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman not think it is deplorable that the pilots, many of them battle pilots, have to fly an aircraft of the kind which Miss Amy Johnson flew to Australia 20 odd years ago?

A lot of people would say that the Tiger Moth is a very good ab initio training machine. It is quite true that we are sending Chipmunks to the training schools in Southern Rhodesia so that the Regular pilots of the future will be trained ab initio on the Chipmunk rather than on the Tiger Moth.

Does the Minister realise that training for instrument flying cannot be given in Tiger Moth aircraft, and that consequently many keen R.A.F.V.R. types are getting despondent at having to fly around in obsolete aircraft which do nothing to advance their qualifications?

I quite agree that the advantage of the Chipmunk is that one can start on instrument flying ab initio, but we have to obtain sufficient Chipmunks. The orders were placed 12 months ago, and we have to wait until we get sufficient numbers to meet the increasing demands as a result of the expanded training programme of the Royal Air Force.

As the reply to the Question is very unsatisfactory, I give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.

asked the Secretary of State for Air what is the minimum training period for Royal Air Force pilots in jet-controlled aircraft; and whether he will give an assurance that it is an adequate length of time to be consistent with the duties and skill required.

Both Regular and National Service pilots must have a minimum of 50 hours dual instruction on jet trainer aircraft followed by 30 hours solo flying at a flying school. This is additional to the flying instruction they receive in training to Wings standard. The present period of training of jet pilots is considered adequate for the duties and skills required of them.

Can the Minister now answer the question I put to him previously regarding the average flying experience with jet aircraft of pilots who have been involved in accidents during the last six months?

I am not prepared to give that. I think it would be against the public interest.

asked the Secretary of State for Air when intermediate single jet training aircraft will be available for the Royal Air Force.

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Maccles-field (Air Commodore Harvey) on 2nd May.

Is the Minister not aware that there is now an urgent requirement for an intermediate jet trainer in view of the very high accident rate among jet pilots, and will he not now look at this matter again with the Air Staff and see whether some better arrangement cannot be made?

It is because we are fully aware of that point that we have aready placed the order for the aircraft to which the hon. Member refers.

asked the Secretary of State for Air the extent of the present shortage of trained pilots; and what estimate he has formed of the shortage in two years' time, when large numbers of new aircraft will have been delivered from the manufacturers.

There is no shortage of trained pilots at present. While pilot recruitment to meet the increased requirements in two years' time has not come up to expectations, there has recently been a steady improvement and present figures are more encouraging. If the present trend continues, it is estimated that there will not be any serious shortage of aircrew. I cannot, however, emphasise too strongly that the success of the present R.A.F. expansion programme will largely depend on a steady flow of applicants for flying employment of the high quality we need.

Is the Minister quite convinced that every opportunity is being taken in the universities and at other places from which recruitment of the right type of personnel can be expected to encourage men to become pilots in the Royal Air Force?

We are doing everything we can at the Air Ministry and in the agencies associated with the Government, but it is not for me to say whether others are doing all they can to help us.

Will the Minister give an undertaking that he will look into this matter and see what he can do to give encouragement?

I do not think there is any need for me to give any undertaking, because I have been looking into this and have been taking what action I could for the last two years.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether it is now possible to supplement the basic training at Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve schools by the introduction of Harvard or other advanced types of aircraft.

No, Sir. I regret that it would not be practicable to do this at present because of the greater demand for Harvards which has resulted from the increase in the number of Regular flying training schools necessitated by the expansion programme.

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman not aware that there is a great need for more advanced training among these pilots in the Reserve, and particularly for gunnery training and exercises? Will he not look at this matter again and see whether some appropriate aircraft cannot be made available, even for a short period?

As regards the question of gunnery, I certainly should be glad to look into that, but as regards the Harvard I must point out that we are limited by the supply available.

asked the Secretary of State for Air the estimated rate of intake of pilots to the Royal Auxiliary Air Force during the next three years.

The pilot establishment of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force fighter squadrons is at present almost full and the future intake will depend partly on the number of Auxiliary pilots whose present engagements are renewed, and partly on the number of National Service pilots who opt to do their part-time service in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force instead of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. I am advised that it is at present impracticable to estimate the intake that will be required during the next three years.

Is the Secretary of State reasonably satisfied that the intake will exceed the wastage in pilots due to various causes—accidents and so forth—in the next three years?

I should not like to commit myself over the next three years. I certainly think that for the next year or two the position is reasonably satisfactory, provided that an adequate number of National Service pilots opt for the squadrons.

When the right hon. and learned Gentleman says that the position is satisfactory, does that mean on a one-flight basis per squadron, or more?

On the present establishment, yes.

On one flight?

indicated assent.

Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman think that a one-flight basis is satisfactory?

No. As I indicated some time ago, we are giving consideration to having a second flight.

Then what does the Minister mean by saying that a one-flight basis is satisfactory? Does he not mean that it is unsatisfactory?

It may still be satisfactory, even if we get an additional flight, provided we get the appropriate number of re-engagements and the appropriate number of National Service pilots opting. We are not able to say yet what those numbers will be.

asked the Secretary of State for Air in what cases is contract work on aerodrome enlargement and improvement in East Anglia being carried out on a cost-plus basis.

None, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware of two recent accidents in which pilots have lost their lives during target practice when their aircraft have hit the sea-wall near Brad well-juxta-Mare, Essex; that these accidents have followed the resiting of the target in question; and if he will investigate the possibility that the present situation of this target, in relation to the sea-wall, is unduly dangerous.

Yes, Sir. I am aware that there have been two accidents during target practice at Bradwell-juxta-Mare and the siting of the target has since been very carefully examined. I am, however, still waiting for the reports of the courts of inquiry set up to investigate these two accidents, and I will communicate with my hon. Friend in due course.

Can my right hon. and learned Friend give an assurance that the moving of the target to the present position has been carefully considered by both courts of inquiry?

Yes, Sir.

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force personnel are employed as aircrew on aircraft maintenance and servicing and in Fighter Control units respectively; and what percentage are these of the auxiliary establishment of these branches.

It would not be in the public interest to give precise figures, but I can say that the strengths of aircrew and ground personnel in flying squadrons are 95 per cent. and 65 per cent. of establishment respectively. The strength of the Fighter Control units is 24 per cent. of establishment.

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman try to think of some method of publicising the need to man up these Fighter Control units at the earliest moment, because 24 per cent. is a deplorable state of affairs when the defence of this country, the Civil Defence and everything else, will depend on the warnings these units will give?

The hon. Gentleman is aware that these units do not go into active service qua units, but constitute a pool from which personnel will be taken for service in the control and reporting system. In addition, we have the G Reserves, several thousand of whom are under training this year and will also be available. Lastly, I would point out that this organisation has been in existence for little more than two years—two and a half years—and the general trend of recruiting, although not as satisfactory as the hon. Member and I would wish, is upwards, which is encouraging.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation when the existing agreement with Aer Lingus expires.

The agreement is for an indefinite period.

Will the hon. Gentleman say what steps are open for reviewing this agreement, in view of the fact that it was unsatisfactory at the outset and subsequent experience has shown it to be even more unsatisfactory?

This agreement is between companies and the termination or amendment would be a matter for the commercial judgment of the companies concerned.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation if arrangements have yet been made for the special international conference to consider the adoption of the draft international convention prepared by the Legal Committee of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the draft convention on damage caused by aircraft to third parties on the ground. The International Civil Aviation Organisation has announced its intention of holding a meeting around June, 1952, for the purpose of completing this draft convention and opening it for signature.

Is the Minister aware that when he gave an answer on this subject on 21st March there was an indication in his answer that if and when this convention was adopted there would be some better chance of local residents whose houses have been damaged by vibration of aircraft getting some sort of compensation? This is a matter of great interest to his constituents and mine because of their proximity to London Airport. Can he do something to hurry up acceptance of the convention?

I would like to have seen this meeting held before June, 1952, but there are between 30 and 40 other nations entitled to have a say in the matter.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation the number of companies which have applied to run associate services; the number of applications granted; of these, the number which came into operation; and the number of companies with insufficient aircraft to fulfil their own applications.

For periods beginning in 1951, 34 companies have made 148 applications, of which 110 have been approved in whole or in part. Forty-seven services have been operated, or are about to be operated. Of the companies which have withdrawn services, two have given insufficient aircraft as their reason for doing so.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation how soon the Comet jet airliners, ordered by his Department through the Ministry of Supply, will be ready to be put into operation.

I understand from the British Overseas Airways Corporation that it is hoped that commercial operations with the Comet will have started early in 1952.

Will these airliners operate from London Airport?

That is the plan at the moment.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation what action is being taken by his Department in regard to the promotion of helicopter services in the Midlands; if he will make a statement on this question; and whether he will consider the provision of a helicopter service for Leicester, in view of its importance as a manufacturing centre.

I have nothing at present to add to the replies I gave to the hon. Member for Kidderminster (Mr. Nabarro) on 30th May, and to the hon. and gallant Member for Stockport, N. (Wing Commander Hulbert) on 27th June.

Would my hon. Friend take into consideration, when these arrangements are being made, that there is no scheduled air service at all for Leicester, which is a highly important export centre and is anxious to get buyers and so on, particularly from London? Will he see that Leicester is not overlooked in this regard?

Yes, Sir.

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the claims of Leeds and Bradford in view of this very grave delay?

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the very slow and inadequate railway service between these Midlands centres, which makes helicopter development absolutely ideal for crosscountry work, notably between Leicester, Coventry, Wolverhampton. Birmingham and Kidderminster?

Yes, Sir, and may I take the opportunity of saying that we have considerable faith in this vehicle for intercity work and hope that the various cities will take into account the necessity for a helicopter site when making town planning arrangements.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation whether the new car parking arrangements at London Airport preclude cars from picking up their passengers at the arrival entrance.

No, Sir.

May I ask the hon. Gentleman to reconsider this because the new arrangement is causing great inconvenience to passengers as they have to go such a long way from the arrival entrance to the car park?

No, Sir. I understand that this is an improvement on the previous arrangement. Previously there was a great deal of congestion which has now been overcome.

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that these difficulties would be very much reduced if he introduced a helicopter service from London Airport to Charing Cross?

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation how much accommodation under the control of his Department stands empty on the aerodromes of Orkney and Shetland in the form of single and married quarters, respectively.

At Hatston Aerodrome there are five married quarters and 46 single quarters lately vacated by the Army. It is intended that these will be occupied by staff of the Air Ministry and Ministry of Civil Aviation. At Sumburgh Aerodrome there are five vacant usable cubicles for which there is no demand at present. At Grimsetter Aerodrome there are neither married nor single quarters.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether this accommodation is now available for housing and if suitable applications are made whether they will receive favourable consideration?

I understand that accommodation is made available for domestic use—that is to say for the use of non-civil servants through the Department of Health for Scotland, and it is to that department that applications should be made.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation how many single and married quarters under the control of his Department in Orkney and Shetland have so far deteriorated since 1945 as to become unusable.

There are 72 unusable cubicles remaining on the war-time Royal Air Force site Sumburgh Aerodome. This accommodation has been offered to all likely users, but there is no requirement for it. It will now be demolished so that use may be made of the materials.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that these huts have stood empty for a great many years? Can he give an assurance that they will either be put to some use, or sold?

That is what I have said, that if they are not put to use they will be sold.

Has the hon. Gentleman consulted the Secretary of State for Air as to whether this aerodrome will be required for Coastal Command in future? Is it wise to demolish these buildings before that assurance has been obtained from the defence forces?

We do, of course, consult the Air Ministry on these matters.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many representations have been made to the Hungarian Government for the release of Mr. Edgar Sanders.

Fourteen. Sir.

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance to the House that the efforts will be continued to obtain the release of Mr. Sanders, that there will be no relaxation of effort, and that in view of the fact that America was successful we shall continue to try our utmost?

Yes, I can give that assurance. We have been continuing our efforts since our new Minister arrived in Hungary.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of the continued persecution of the Roman Catholic leaders in Hungary, and, in particular, the conviction of Archbishop Grosz, what further action he is taking under Article 2 of the Peace Treaty with Hungary.

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given to a similar Question on 25th June. His Majesty's Government have learned with indignation of the renewed persecution of religious leaders and others in Hungary, which has shown once more that the Hungarian Government are determined to pursue their policy of stifling all independent opinion.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a great many people in this country, not only of the Catholic Church but many others as well, view this continued persecution in Hungary and the suppression of civil liberties with loathing and contempt, and will he lose no opportunity to bring that home to the Hungarian Government?

Yes, Sir. We are doing everything we can, and I answered in that sense last week. We are doing everything possible through the United Nations as well.

Is it not a fact that by acting in this way Hungary is breaking a peace treaty which we have signed? What action does the right hon. Gentleman propose to take in regard to the peace treaty?

The hon. and gallant Member is perfectly correct. If he were to refer to the Question of 25th June, which I mentioned, he would see that that

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will now request the United Nations Security Council to consider further the restrictions imposed by Egypt upon traffic through the Suez Canal.

The most appropriate method of bringing this matter before the Security Council is at present being considered. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we shall not overlook the possibility of ourselves addressing a request to the Council if necessary.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Mixed Armistice Commission to whom this matter was referred by the Security Council have condemned the action of Egypt and have asked that it should be referred to the Security Council as soon as possible?

Yes, I am aware of that. I think that there is little doubt that this matter will be referred to the Security Council. It is only the exact method that we are now considering.

Is not the latest incident, reported in the Press this morning, a humiliating example of the way in which this country is being pushed around by foreign countries; and is that not due to the spineless and irresolute character of the Government's Foreign policy?

I do not at all accept that. I think there is a Private Notice Question to be asked later about the incident which the hon. Member has mentioned.

In view of the very urgent nature of this matter, and in view of its delay for such a long time, and in view of other steps taken by Egypt, can my right hon. Friend say how soon this matter is likely to come before the Security Council?

I am sure that there will not be very much delay now.

Is there not something to be said for escorting our ships through and arguing with the Security Council afterwards?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) what has been the cost per annum, during the past two years, of the Women's Affairs Section of the office of the British High Commissioner in Germany; and what proportion this is of the total cost of the office of the High Commissioner;

(2) if, instead of abolishing completely the Women's Affairs Section of the office of the High Commissioner in Germany he will retain a nucleus of these women who are fulfilling a difficult task in Germany.

With permission, I will answer this Question and Question No. 31 together.

On a point of order. May I have the Questions answered separately?

I can do so if my hon. Friend wishes.

The answer to Question 30 is: The salaries of the Women's Affairs Section amounted in 1949–50 to about £7,200 and in 1950–51 to about £8,100, excluding the cost of typing services, rations, transport and administration. In the earlier year this was about one-thousandth of the salary cost of the Control Commission, and in the second year one five-hundredth.

Would my right hon. Friend agree that few Government Departments could produce more first-class work at such a cost? Is he also aware that the original announcements gave the impression that this section had been cut as a convenient administrative cut by demolishing an entire section rather than by looking elsewhere and making economies which would not have had such an effect on the work in Germany?

I agree that the work which has been done has been valuable. The cut could not be described as purely administrative; it is a matter of policy. We are running down the size of the Control Commission in Germany at a very great rate. That must continue, and I think all branches of the Commission must suffer in consequence. It is something more than an administrative matter.

Was it necessary to abolish one section entirely? Could not part of it have been abolished and part of the cut have been made elsewhere?

Perhaps my hon. Friend will await the answer to her next Question.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the work performed by the Women's Affairs Section was in the view of the Government unnecessary and could be done away with, or is it necessary and is being absorbed by another department?

It is intended that the essential work shall go on. That arises on the next Question.

The answer to Question No. 31 is: It is intended that the High Commissioner shall continue to have a woman on his staff to deal with women's affairs as part of our general relations with Germany.

I am much obliged to my right hon. Friend for his courtesy. Would the Foreign Office not agree that one of the most regrettable features of Germany was her attitude towards women, and that these women were doing a great job in the rehabilitation of that country?

Yes, Sir. I think that is the case. One of the functions of this section was to establish relations between women's organisations in this country and corresponding organisations in Germany, or where such organisations did not exist to try to promote them. After five or six years that has been fairly successful and I think that the whole thing can proceed without official intervention.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) what representations have been made by General Eisenhower with regard to the scale and form of German re-armament; and what is his policy with regard thereto;

(2) what is the present state of the negotiations between His Majesty's Government and other Allied Governments for incorporating German units in the defence of Western Europe.

I am aware of no representations made by General Eisenhower with regard to the scale and form of German re-armament.

As my right hon. Friend said in reply to a question by the right hon. Member for Streatham (Mr. Sandys) on 9th July, a joint report on the exploratory discussions in Germany on a German contribution to Western defence has been received by the three Occupying Powers. His Majesty's Government are now studying this report and hope shortly to discuss it with their Allies. Pending consideration by the Allied Powers it would not be right for me to make any comment.

Would one be right in assuming from that reply, that these discussions are still in an exploratory stage and that, before fundamental decisions are taken, regard will be had to the changed political conditions inside Germany?

I described the discussions as exploratory.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether we may expect a statement from the Government as to their attitude on this whole question before the Recess?

I will bring that Question to the notice of my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary.

Is it not a fact that the fundamental decision has already been taken, and may we be assured by the Government that they are doing their best to push forward a German contribution as quickly as possible?

I think the policy of His Majesty's Government was clearly expressed by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in a debate in this House on 12th February, and I refer hon. Members to that.

Before my right hon. Friend comes to a final conclusion, will he take into very serious consideration the serious rise of the neo-Nazism in Germany at present and the repercussions of that condition upon the matter in question?

All aspects of this problem will be considered in the discussions with our Allies.

Can we not have a straight answer to the question by the hon. and learned Member for Northampton (Mr. Paget)? Is it or is it not the intention of the Government to abide by their decision to push on with German re-armament as quickly as possible?

I referred my hon. Friend to the statement of my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in the debate in February which was to the effect that we accept the need for a German contribution but that the timing, method and conditions will require to be worked out.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the estimated cost of the course of lectures on Communism given to Foreign Office officials at Jesus College, Oxford; and what was the purpose of these lectures.

The cost of this course on "Aspects of Communism" held from 28th June to 2nd July was approximately £243. The purpose of these refresher courses, three of which are held each year, is to provide an opportunity for members of the Foreign Service serving at home and abroad to hear and discuss informally the views of acknowledged experts on problems of current interest and importance to the work of the Foreign Office.

Can my right hon. Friend assure us that this is not a sinister Communist plot, because at these lectures the students are advised to read Marx, Lenin and Trotsky? Is this not likely to completely demoralise the Foreign Office?

I think my hon. Friend will agree that it is advisable that members of the Foreign Office, and indeed all others, should be familiar with all the aspects of Communist policy. It is with this in view that these courses are held.

Who are the "acknowledged experts" in this case?

If the hon. Gentleman wishes to have a list, I think he will agree that they are acknowledged experts—Mr. Isaiah Berlin, three members of the Foreign Service who deal with various current aspects of this problem—Mr. G. W. Harrison, Mr. C. A. E. Shuck-burgh and Sir Esler Dening—Mr. H. Somerville Smith, dealing with the foreign trade aspect, the hon. Member for Lancaster (Mr. F. Maclean) dealing with Yugoslavia and the Kremlin, Doctor Darlington, dealing with scientific aspects of the Soviet regime and Mr. Bertrand Russell in a winding-up lecture.

Could these lectures be made open to hon. Members of this House, including the hon. Member for Ayrshire, South (Mr. Emrys Hughes)?

I have no doubt that there are many Members who would benefit from them.

Why does that list not include the hon. Member for Orpington (Sir W. Smithers)?

Could my right hon. Friend tell us if these lecturers were screened?

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what instructions were given to the British Government delegates to the Commission on the Status of Women, held at Lake Success from 30th April to 14th May.

It is not customary to disclose the guidance given by His Majesty's Government to United Kingdom members of United Nations Commissions.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that arising out of the Government's instructions our delegates were in the position of voting against extending to women in other countries those things which have been accepted as their right for many years, namely, the right to vote and the right to take part in public affairs? Is he also aware that as a result of those instructions our delegates found themselves in a minority, accompanied only by the representatives of Russia and Poland?

No, Sir. I am aware that there has been a misunderstanding, and I am afraid that what my hon. Friend has said is a complete misunderstanding. The only point which arose was the precise method of pursuing the aims of improving the political rights of women in various countries. Our representative abstained on one particular proposal that there should be a convention, which she did not think was useful. There are very strong arguments to support her point of view.

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he is aware that many people are not responding to the request of the authorities of the South Bank Exhibition to refrain from throwing down litter; and if he will take further action to bring home to the public the need for using the litter baskets provided.

Between eight and 10 tons of mixed refuse are removed from the Exhibition site daily. The 355 specially designed litter bins which were on the site when the Exhibition opened have been substantially reinforced by additional containers and they are all cleared three times a day. Nevertheless, quantities of litter are being deposited in the circulation areas, in fountains and in other places where clearance is difficult. Measures taken to induce the public to make better use of the litter bins include announcements on the public address system and the issue of a special reminder to those in charge of organised parties.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent opposition has developed in Sierra Leone to the new constitutional proposals; and whether any further modifications are being considered.

The new constitution, which gives the people of Sierra Leone much wider responsibilities for conducting their own affairs, has been warmly welcomed by opinion in the Protectorate, where over 90 per cent. of the population live. A section of Colony opinion is opposed to the grant of a greater share of representation to the Protectorate at this stage, but the bulk of the people of the Colony are prepared to accept the constitution and to give it a fair trial. Active opposition to the constitution is diminishing. My right hon. Friend sees no ground for considering modifications and the answer to the last part of the Question is therefore in the negative.

Are any steps being taken to try to reconcile these two groups, in view of the fact that there is civil tension arising out of differences of opinion about these measures?

I can assure my hon. Friend that the tension is diminishing.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the present position of the Rice Marketing Board in British Guiana; whether it is now receiving the support of rice growers; and what success has attended its activities.

The Rice Marketing Board of British Guiana controls all the operations concerned with the manufacture, sale and export of rice. Rice producers hold half the seats on the Board and are in a majority at most meetings. The Board is showing a profit in the current financial year; it has been successful in eliminating exploitation of the growers and has contributed generally to the stability of the rice industry.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what facilities for technical education are available in British Guiana; and what increases are planned for the future.

There are two Government trade schools at present. A technical institute is to be opened later this year.

Can the hon. Gentleman say what proportion of the population will be covered by these facilities?

That is another question. I should like to see it on the Order Paper.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the deplorable condition of the road between Atkinson Field and Georgetown, British Guiana; and whether, in view of the fact that Atkinson Field is the only mainline airport in the Colony, he will take steps to ensure that adequate road communication is available between the airport and the capital.

Provision has been made for the reconstruction of this road in the Colony's revised development plan. Meanwhile, £80,000 is to be spent on reconditioning it this year.