asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what action he will take to bring compensation payments to disabled persons under the Workmen's Compensation Act into line with the benefits available under the insurance scheme.

The two schemes are so fundamentally different in their benefit provisions that it has been found impracticable to assimilate them.

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation how far the building of better roads and the modernisation of railways will now be slowed down; and if he will give an assurance that work on the Lincoln Pelham Bridge scheme will proceed without delay.

With regard to the first part of the Question I would refer the hon. Member to what my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer said on these matters in his statement of 26th October. With regard to the second part, I see no reason why the Lincoln Pelham Bridge scheme should be delayed.

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will make a statement about the proposed Dartford Tunnel.

The existing plant and equipment is now being overhauled. Tenders for the main tunnelling work will be invited very soon and this work should start next spring.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a statement regarding the currency of Treasury bills.

Yes. The Treasury bills issued weekly by tender have, since 1st May, 1950, become due 91 days after date. On and after Friday, 28th October, 1955, tenders may also be invited for bills falling due 63 days after date. Bills of the new currency will not be offered each week, but only as and when the needs of the Treasury so require. The usual weekly announcement in the London Gazette will indicate the bills to be offered at the next tender.The introduction of bills of the new currency will give greater flexibility in the management of the Floating Debt, and, in particular, will assist the Treasury to adjust the maturities of Treasury bills at different periods of the year to match seasonal variations in the flow of funds to the Exchequer.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give an assurance that National Service men who have special athletic qualifications are not given leave from their duties to participate in these activities in excess of their normal leave entitlement.

No. In my opinion it is desirable when possible to grant National Service men special leave to take part in international sporting events.