asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now in a position to announce the policy of Her Majesty's Government on slaughterhouses in Scotland.

I would refer my hon. Friend to the Answer given to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for South Angus (Captain Duncan) on 1st May.

Is my right hon. Friend not aware that the delay in reaching any decision about slaughterhouses has been very considerable and is not doing much good to Scottish agriculture? If he has now passed the matter over to the Association of County Councils, would he ask them to buck up and produce their recommendations as quickly as possible?

I hope that there will not be undue delay. I will do my best.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the price of the greater part of the oats sold in the north of Scotland was substantially below the average national price; and whether he will introduce a scheme of differential payments for this area, in order to encourage the increased production of this valuable fodder crop.

The average price of oats in the North of Scotland in the current cereal year is rather below the national average. This is the normal price relationship and I do not consider that special action on the lines suggested by my hon. Friend would be practicable.

:If my right hon. Friend does not like the idea of regional arrangements, will he do his best generally to try to reduce any gap that may exist between the realised market price and the guaranteed national average price throughout Scotland?

I should not like to commit myself to being able to achieve that desirable objective, but it does, of course, to some extent, depend on the quality of the oats, as my hon. Friend will be aware.

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that the suggestion in the Question is a dangerous one for Scotland, because it might react on the price for beef obtained in Scotland, which is higher than the national average?

I have reason to believe that some of the leaders of the farming world are not satisfied that this would be sound in principle.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will now instruct local authorities to proceed with the demolition of surface air raid shelters.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that there are still many air raid shelters in the City of Aberdeen which restrict the drying green space and amenities of the occupants of the respective houses;that the practice of his Department not to sanction the removal of such air raid shelters unless they are structurally dangerous, cannot be economically repaired, are dangerous to health and morals or prevent approved development, is too narrow and rigid, and inflicts hardships on many occupants of houses whose drying green space and amenities are restricted;and if he will relax and extend the practice of his Department in such a way as to enable these grievances to be removed.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he intends to have air raid shelters demolished, especially those in the back courts of tenement property.

:It is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to preserve all sound air raid shelters unless there are compelling grounds for demolition. I am always prepared to consider whether, in particular cases— because of the effects on health or amenity or for other reasons — such grounds exist.

In view of the fact that we are now ten years away from the last war, and the fact that these shelters would be quite ineffective in a nuclear age, is it not possible for a general order to be given for their complete demolition?

We have to take into account the fact that, in a fall-out area, they might be of some use, but I agree that this is a matter we must keep under consideration. Until better arrangements can be discovered, I do not think that it would be wise to demolish the whole lot.

Is the right hon. Gentleman coming to recognise the folly of having built air raid shelters for only one purpose? If they had been built so that they could serve a civil purpose as well as a war-time one, they would not be merely eyesores. Will the right hon. Gentleman take this into account in respect of any further shelters to be built, so that they may serve a peace-time use as well as a war-time one?

I will bear that in mind.

Does the Secretary of State realise that these drying greens mentioned in my Question mean as much to the poor as extensive gardens do to the rich? Is it not a disgraceful thing to continue to deprive them of these amenities, and will the right hon. Gentleman take urgent steps to see that their amenities are restored?

I realise how annoying it is to have these drying greens obstructed in this way, and I should be glad to see the shelters cleared out if possible.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will approve, for ex-company pensioners of the electricity supply industry in Scotland, pension increases similar to those now approved for England and Wales.

I have informed the Scottish electricity boards that I am prepared to approve the payment of increases in the pensions of ex-company pensioners for whom these boards are responsible. The details of the increases to be paid are at present under consideration.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the ex-company pensioners of the electricity supply industry in Scotland will be grateful to him for that assurance?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will consult the local authorities in Scotland regarding means of increasing the public interest and participation in local elections.

I shall, of course, gladly consider carefully any suggestions that the local authority associations may wish to make to me on this subject, the importance of which I appreciate; but I am doubtful to what extent the remedy is to be found in Government action.

Would the Secretary of State seek the views of local authorities on the question of reverting to November as the date for local elections?

I am aware that there are varying views as to the date, but I will certainly look into that point.

Is this situation not possibly due to some extent to the fact that successive Parliaments have deprived local authorities of real power? If my right hon. Friend could give back to local authorities some greater responsibility, would there not be more interest in the election of representatives?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consultations he has had with business undertakings regarding proposals for financial assistance to employees in the education of their children.

I have had no such consultations.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Rolls-Royce, one of the biggest undertakings in Scotland, has recently announced a scheme for giving grants to employees arranging private schooling for their children? Does he not think that this is a very important matter which raises very big issues of principle in relation to Scottish education, and will he not seek consultations?

I am aware of the Rolls-Royce company's scheme, but I was not consulted about it and therefore have no particular knowledge of it. Indeed, I am not particularly concerned with it, although I admit its importance.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to conclude the discussions with Glenrothes Development Corporation and the Fife County Council concerning future development of the new town.

My noble Friend the Minister of State is meeting the development corporation and the county council next month, and I can make no further statement until that meeting has taken place.

Has the Secretary of State's attention been drawn to the Report of the Church of Scotland," Church and Nation", in which it asks for an investigation and special consideration by the Government of this problem, in view of the possible adverse effects on the proposals for further new towns in Scotland? When will the Government make a much bolder approach to the whole question of the redistribution of industry in Scotland?

That raises a wide question. As for the first part of the supplementary question, I can only say that we are dealing with this matter, and I do not think it would be helpful if I commented on it at this stage.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of his decision to sanction the continued employment of children for potato gathering, he will now review the wages paid, having regard to the continued rise in the cost of living.

The rate of 1s. 3d. per hour recommended to be paid to school children, between 13 and 15 years of age, for potato gathering compares not unfavourably with the statutory rate of 1s. 3½ d. per hour for workers over 15 years and under 16 years. The rate for school children was reviewed in the light of all circumstances by the Departmental Committee on Assistance by Schools in April this year, and it unanimously recommended that the rate should be the same as last year. I have accepted the Committee's recommendation.

Is it not the case that the cost of living has risen since this rate was agreed a year ago last April? Would the right hon. Gentleman not consider tying these rates of wages to the cost of living, or, alternatively, and better still for the children, tying them to the retail price of potatoes?

If we tied them to the cost of living it would raise very big questions throughout the industrial field. I think the fact that the rate is only a halfpenny less than the rate for children over 15 years of age, and the fact that the farmer concerned has to provide a mid-day meal, make it appear to be a fairly reasonable rate.

Is it not a fact that potato lifting by children was introduced merely as a temporary expedient? Is it now to become a permanent feature of agricultural work in Scotland?

That matter has been discussed before now. The hon. Member may or may not be aware that we are doing our best to get on with the development of a machine for the purpose.

Could the right hon. Gentleman say what he considers to be a mid-day meal? Is he aware that a mid-day meal consists sometimes of a cup of tea and some bread and butter?

I know that mine today was one sandwich. I had not time for more.

That is a shocking answer.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been drawn to the growing lists of patients waiting for admission to the West Fife Hospital, Dunfermline; and what steps are contemplated to reduce especially the waiting period of orthopaedic and general surgery patients.

Additional post-operative beds which will be available at another local hospital from July will expedite admissions, and two additional junior surgeons are being appointed. The casualty block due for completion at the end of 1957 will further increase local facilities.

Is the Minister aware that that Answer is satisfactory as far as it goes, but that there is an increasing need for the provision of orthopaedic beds in West Fife, where last year there were about 2,000 orthopaedic cases? Is he aware that there are only two beds available for such cases in the West Fife hospital, which necessitates patients having to travel to Bridge of Earn Hospital, with all the inconvience and expense involved?

I am aware that the hon. Gentleman is concerned about this matter, and I assure him that the board is doing its best to deal with the position. It has never been envisaged that reliance on other hospitals— for example, that at Bridge of Earn—should cease in connection with orthopaedic cases.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that local authorities are delaying action along the lines of the Agriculture (Improvement of Roads) Act, 1955, pending the issue of an explanatory memorandum by his Department; and when this memorandum will be circulated.

I am aware that local authorities are expecting guidance in this matter and I hope to issue a circular to them at an early date.

Can my right hon. Friend give an assurance that "at an early date" means fairly soon?

I will amend my Answer to "fairly soon".

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that signs are being erected on the trunk roads at Gretna Green and Berwick-on-Tweed bearing on the front "Welcome to Scotland", and on the reverse side "Haste ye back to Scotland", and whether he proposes to erect similar signs at Coldstream and Carter Bar.

Yes, Sir. These signs, and a similar sign at Prestwick Airport, were put up by the Scottish Tourist Board, which informs me that it does not propose to erect any more at present.

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that the caption on the reverse side of this sign—" Haste ye back to Scotland"—is well chosen? Would it not be better to have on the reverse side, "Welcome to England", because we do not want to be selfish to the English?

The notices were erected by the Scottish Tourist Board, and I suppose it was concerned more with Scotland.

Is the Secretary of State aware that until very recently when one crossed the border going south the notice said "This is England", but that when one crossed the border going north the notice read "Beware of the sheep?"

Is it not high time that we in Scotland followed that good example?

Can the Minister tell us whether it was the Scottish Tourist Board which erected outside the Royal Burgh of Ayr a board stating "Home of the Royal Scots Fusiliers" rather than "Home of Robert Burns"?

I am afraid that I should require notice of that Question.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what changes he proposes to introduce affecting distribution of milk and meals to school children during holiday periods.

I am considering whether there should be any change in the present arrangements for supplying milk in holiday periods and I hope to reach a decision shortly.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in spite of the fact that the milk has been cut and that the meals have been stopped for holiday periods in England, we feel that there are often special considerations applicable to Scotland, and would he take those special factors into consideration?

I assure the hon. Lady that I shall take those considerations into account. That is certainly my intention.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has had for a steel strip mill in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

I am aware of the interest which both sides of Scottish industry have in this matter. I understand that the need for a fourth steel strip mill is still under consideration by the Iron and Steel Board.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say for how long this matter is likely to remain at the stage of "under consideration"? When may we expect a decision?

It is not really a matter which I can decide for the Iron and Steel Board. I do not think that I can give a helpful answer to the hon. Lady's question.

Would not the Minister remember that so long as Scotland merely produces steel for the heavier industries, this industry is likely to be based on industries that are old and are rapidly being outmoded? Will he keep in mind that the strip steel mill can keep Scotland right up to date so far as modern industries are concerned?

I personally would welcome it in Scotland.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will hold a public inquiry in connection with the appeal against the Dunbarton County Council's decision regarding the proposed sand and gravel quarry at Mid Ross Farm, Loch Lomond.

I am awaiting the necessary information about the case from the county council. When I get it, I shall consider what action is necessary.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a great deal of public disquiet over this matter, and will he give it very careful consideration?

Yes.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many copies of the 1956 edition of "Handbook on Scottish Administration" have been printed and at what cost; and how many copies of the 1950 edition were printed and how many were sold.

Four thousand copies of the 1956 edition of the "Handbook on Scottish Administration" have been printed at an estimated cost of £ 171. A total of 5,575 copies were printed of the 1950 edition, and stocks were exhausted some months ago.

Will the Secretary of State see to it that copies of this excellent handbook are sent to the Lord Privy Seal and to any other obstreperous Member who questions our rights, at times, to take up time in this Chamber, so that when next we raise the point about the adequacy of the facilities of Scottish Members for asking Questions they will be a little more knowledgeable and, perhaps, a little more sympathetic?

I will examine that point.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of complaints by litigants of the prolonged delay before their cases can be heard in the Court of Session; if he will explain the cause of this delay; and what steps he will take to reduce it to a minimum.

I understand that cases are being brought to trial more quickly since the appointment of an additional judge, and I am not aware of any recent complaints.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the complaints are not that there are insufficient judges, but that even when a judge is available to hear a case there is no accommodation for him? Would the Minister look into this question of accommodation for the judge?

Perhaps the hon. Lady did not know, but it is the fact that an extra court room for jury trials was brought into use at the beginning of the summer session in 1954.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consultations he had and with whom, before granting permission to the Independent Television Authority to erect a television mast 750 feet high at Blackhill, Lanarkshire.

Planning permission under the planning Acts is a matter for the local planning authority, and I am informed that permission for the television mast has been granted by Lanark County Council.

Is the Secretary of State aware that there is great criticism of the erection of this television mast, particularly at a time when the Government are curtailing so greatly expenditure in the public building sector? Is the right hon. Gentleman also aware that the people in this area would rather have seen this money spent on factory building, since they realise that very soon this mast will be completely derelict? Could not the Secretary of State, even at this late stage, do something to stop the building of this new television mast, which is a short distance from the present one?

As I have said, I think it is a matter for the local planning authority. I will certainly look into the matter, but I do not think that I am concerned.

As a member of the Cabinet, is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that it is technically possible, I understand, for this programme to be broadcast from the B.B.C. mast already in existence? How does he reconcile a duplication of this kind on behalf of I.T.A. with the need for economy?

I was not asked to reconcile it with economy. I am afraid I do not know enough about the subject to say whether the transmission could be made from the B.B.C. mast.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many children of the relevant age group have been registered for anti-polio vaccination; and for what percentage the vaccine will be available.

Just under 300,000 in Scotland. I hope that vaccine will be available before the end of June for about 20 per cent. of these; the others will have priority when vaccination is resumed later in the year.

Could we have further details of what the right hon. Gentleman means by "later in the year "?

Yes, Sir. Vaccinations will be suspended at the end of June until after the polio season has passed. They will be recommenced in November or December.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps are being taken to ensure the continued use of Inveresk Gate as a research institute.

The future of Inveresk Gate, including its possible use for research purposes, is still under consideration. I am not at present able to make a statement.

Could the right hon. Gentleman say whether this building is being offered to other Government Departments or nationalised industries for research purposes? Is he aware that there is a considerable feeling that it would be a great pity of it were no longer used for research purposes?

Yes, I agree with the hon. Getnleman, and it is being offered.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent shooting in the Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve is restricted; and how many permits to shoot have been granted.

I am informed by East Lothian County Council, which manages this reserve, that for the last shooting season it restricted the number of permits to fifteen— confined to persons resident in the county— allowing only mallard and wigeon to be shot: and that no shooting was allowed after 31st January.

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that it is rather a contradiction that there should be a specially privileged class created to shoot in what is nominally a conservancy?

The county council presumably take the view that those who live within the county should have the prior claim, and that if one overdid it the birds might be annihilated.

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that in what has been a very controversial matter the present settlement has commended itself to most of the people concerned?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the committee appointed to review all aspects of local government finance, including industrial derating, has yet reported.

This review is making good progress, but is not yet complete. As my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government informed the House on 8th May, the Government hope to begin discussions with the local authority associations by the autumn.

As it is quite possible that the report of this committee will have very far-reaching effects on local government, will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to publish the report of the committee when it has concluded its deliberations?

I must ask the hon. Member to put down another Question on that subject. I do not know, but I think it would have to take place after discussions with the local authority associations.

I do not mind when it takes place, but what I want is a copy of the report to be made available, particularly to Scottish Members.

I will certainly consider that.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes to take by way of administrative action, consultation or advice, in order to reduce the marked increase of drunk-in-charge cases reported to the police in recent years; and whether, if his powers are insufficient for the purpose, he will promote legislation to enlarge them.

Increased penalties for being under the influence of drink or a drug when driving or attempting to drive a motor vehicle are proposed in the Road Traffic Bill now before Parliament. In addition, both the Highway Code and the pamphlet "Sense and Safety," which my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation issued last January, stress the danger of such practices.

Would the right hon. Gentleman have regard to the latter part of my Question? Is he satisfied, for example, that even at the moment, in view of the alarming figures, he cannot do something either by administrative action or otherwise, as suggested in my Question? In particular, may I refer him to the supplementary question put to him by his hon. Friend the Member for Perth and East Perthshire (Sir A. Gomme-Duncan) last week?

I think I covered the point because, as I said at the beginning, increased penalties for these offences are at present before Parliament.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that a long stretch of the road between Leadburn and Howgate, Midlothian, is without a footpath for pedestrian traffic and children attending Howgate School run great risk; and if he will take steps to correct this anomaly.

I understand that Midlothian County Council has plans for widening this road and providing a footpath. It is for the council to decide whether the scheme should be included in the current year's programme.

In view of the increase in drunk-in-charge cases, and as this road is a main road into England, would not the right hon. Gentleman consider bringing pressure to bear on the county council in this matter?

The question of priority is a matter for the county council. I have no doubt that the hon. Gentleman's Question will receive the attention of the county council.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will revoke the planning permission granted to Littlewood's Mail Order Stores Limited to erect a 14-storey building on ground between Miller Street and Queen Street, Glasgow.

The site of the proposed building which has, I understand, been approved by the Corporation of Glasgow as planning authority, is in an area zoned for commercial purposes in the Corporation's approved development plan. Any question of modifying the development plan, or revoking the permission already given, is a matter in the first instance for the corporation.

Is the Secretary of State aware that this firm has abandoned this project because it is alarmed at the effect of the Government's credit squeeze on the spending power of the housewives? Will the right hon. Gentleman convey that view to the Chancellor of the Exchequer? If the site has now been permanently abandoned, what is to happen to the steel which has been allocated to the building?

I am not aware of the details on that point, but I could, no doubt, obtain the necessary information and give it to the hon. Gentleman.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the rapid deterioration of former Service camps; how many families are still occupying them; and when he expects them to be rehoused.

I am aware that conditions in some of the camps are not good, but the number of families has been reduced to 350 as compared with 700 a year ago and 1,200 in 1954. We are exerting constant pressure to secure the rehousing of the families and the closure of all the camps at the earliest possible date.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that occupiers of tenement houses are being threatened with dispossession; and if he will introduce legislation to prohibit the sale of tenement property or to safeguard the purchasers thereof.

I am aware of the case which the hon. Member recently brought to my notice.

As regards the second part of the Question, the Government have explained on several occasions why they are not prepared to introduce legislation to prohibit or control the sale of tenement houses. Prospective purchasers who may not fully appreciate the obligations which they are undertaking would be well advised to seek guidance in the usual way.

Is the Secretary of State aware that in the case of threatened eviction of which I have sent him details my constituent certainly took on obligations of which she was apparently ignorant? Is he aware that the solicitors acting for the landlord in that case have refused to give my constituent the legal agreement which formed part of the purchase? Is he aware that the only legal document she has is a two penny notebook provided by this firm of solicitors? Is he aware that the landlord, through his solicitors, has been bringing pressure to bear on both my constituent and myself to try to make us drop this matter? Would the right hon. Gentleman not take some positive steps in his Department to give guidance to tenement dwellers, who are not accustomed to house purchase, with regard to their rights and their obligations?

I am, of course, very sympathetic about the case in respect of which the hon. Gentleman wrote to me. I have the letter here. I will write to him on the points which he has raised, but legislation can deal with matters of this nature only in very general terms, and there are. a very great variety of different circumstances which arise in these cases.

Will the right hon. Gentleman not agree that there is a Private Member's Bill in my name waiting on the stocks which would greatly assist in this matter? Is he aware that we are prepared to give him all facilities to pass it through the House?

I think that the hon. Member is aware that that has been discussed.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will require from the local authorities concerned a report under Section 175 of the Housing (Scotland) Act, 1950, in view of the large number of applicants on the waiting lists for houses at Wick and Thurso, and in view of the number of homes unfit for human habitation in the landward areas.

The three local authorities concerned have made good housing progress since the war and I have approved their proposals for the next three years as contained in reports recently submitted under Section 1 of the Housing (Repairs and Rents) (Scotland) Act, 1954. I do not consider, therefore, that any further reports are necessary in the meantime.

Does the Secretary of State realise that there are 500 families on the housing list in the small Burgh of Wick and 260 families on the housing list in the small Burgh of Thurso and that 40 per cent. of the houses in rural Caithness have been condemned as unfit for human habitation? Is not finance the real trouble?

It is also a question of materials and building operatives. Good progress is continuing, however. This is not an area of great density of population, and I know of no reason to cause me to take action not deemed to be necessary elsewhere.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on his recent meeting with representatives of local authorities on the question of housing subsidies.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will state the subject and the outcome of his recent discussions with local authority representatives.

I met representatives of the three local authority associations on 20th April, when a Working Party of officials from the two sides was set up to ascertain all the relevant facts about housing subsidies. I hope to have their Report in June, when I shall resume discussions with the associations.

1 thank the right hon. Gentleman for that Answer, but could he tell us if the purpose of the meeting was to indicate to the local authorities that he proposes to reduce the housing subsidies in Scotland?

I asked the local authorities to consider what should be done for the future, but these discussions are on a confidential basis and I think that it would be better to await the Report of the Working Party.

Can we take that Answer as an assurance that the Secretary of State has no ulterior motive in getting local authorities and officials to find out what he calls the facts? Has he given any indication that those facts have to be produced in such a way as to justify a reduction in subsidy?

I can only repeat that it will depend on the results of the discussions in progress.

Can the Secretary of State give a little more clearly the terms of reference of this committee? Surely all the facts are known.

There are no direct terms of reference. It is a Working Party of officials and representatives of local authorities to discuss what we should best do for the future.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland which local authorities provide special housing accommodation for the aged; and the number of such houses so provided.

About 10,000 small houses with one or two rooms have been approved since the war, the majority for old people. I am sending the hon. Member a list of the 156 local authorities concerned.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on his future housing policy for the aged.

In April, 1952, the Scottish Housing Advisory Committee gave me a Report containing, among other things, detailed recommendations about the housing of older people which I commended to local authorities. More recently, my Department have collaborated with the Corporation of Edinburgh in designing a demonstration block for old people which should be started soon.

The proportion of houses for this class in approved schemes has trebled during the past four years and is increasing. I am anxious that local authorities and voluntary bodies interested in the welfare of old people should intensify their work in this important field, and I shall do all that I can to ensure that these encouraging developments continue.

Is the Minister aware that it was announced on 1st May by the Minister of Housing and Local Government that a special inquiry is to be instituted in England? Are we to take it that in this respect Scotland is ahead of England, or is it that Scotland will have to learn from England and do as England is doing?

I assure the hon. Gentleman that we are doing our best in Scotland but I have not got the figures to enable me to say whether or not Scotland is ahead of England in this matter.

asked the Minister of Works the reasons for increasing the charges for persons using deck chairs in the Royal Parks by 33⅓per cent.

The charge was raised from 3d. to 4d. when a new agreement was negotiated for the hire of chairs from 1st April this year. This increase was agreed to meet rising costs after close scrutiny of the contractor's accounts.

Is the Minister aware that in the parks under the control of the London County Council the hire charge for a deck-chair is 3d. Will he watch the position in the Royal Parks very carefully? Otherwise if the increase in charge continues, it will become increasingly difficult for a family even to sit in deck chairs in the Royal Parks?

In the case of the Royal Parks the contract which we held came to an end on 31st March last. Increased charges were necessary for various reasons. It is not for me to speak for the London County Council, but I think that the council has the same contractor, and its contract has not yet come to an end.

asked the Minister of Works whether he now has any proposals for the Orangery at Kensington Palace.

I now propose to furnish the Orangery as it ought to be, with statuary and trees as these become available.

The Victoria and Albert Museum is kindly lending a great vase from Hadrian's Villa to be placed in the centre. There is difficulty, however, in finding suitable classical statues and busts for the niches. I should, therefore, be very glad to hear from any owner who would consider lending good copies of classical sculpture, either full-length figures or busts, to embellish this masterpiece of Sir Christopher Wren.

When my right hon. Friend said that he would be glad to hear from any member, did he mean any member of the public?

I thought I said "any owner".

asked the Minister of Works to make a statement about the possibility of returning to fixed price tendering in Government building contracts.

I have had discussions about this with representatives of the National Federation of Building Trades Employers, the Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors and representatives of the building and civil engineering trades operatives: and explained that arising out of the Government's wish to move towards a return to fixed price tendering it had been decided as an experiment to invite tenders on a fixed price basis for selected projects of values not exceeding £100,000 for which my own Department is responsible.

I feel sure, in view of the general advantages to be gained by all concerned, that I shall have, in this experiment the good will of the industries concerned.

While welcoming that as a start may I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is aware that it will be very welcome in Scotland, where fixed price tendering for building contracts has been the case for a long time? To what extent will he extend this practice to other Departments in Scotland, and in England as well?

As regards Government Departments in general, I only wish to say at this stage that if a good start is made I hope that the practice will be extended to other Departments.

Why does the Minister suggest, as I understood his Answer, that there should any longer be any limit to the size of a fixed price tender? Is he aware that in the export market we all have to tender for fixed prices; why should we not have to do so at home?

I hope that in due course we shall get back to that, but naturally I have had to take account of opinion in the industries concerned. This is a start and an experiment; there is no reason why it should not be extended as we go on.

Does the Minister intend also to include in the tenders the appropriate penalty clauses?

Yes, Sir; I think that will be the case.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, how far it is the policy of the Government to encourage research associations to undertake development work; and to what extent this is being carried out.

Development work is an important part of the work of research associations which the Government encourage by means of grants paid by the D.S.I.R. These grants supplement the contributions made by industry. The resources devoted to development are decided by the councils of the associations, which are made up predominantly of industrialists but include representatives of the Department. The associations as a whole spend approximately one-quarter of their budgets or over £ 1 million on development.

In view of the fact that our scientific manpower resources are so scarce, would it not be a good idea to encourage much more development to be done through the research associations for the benefit of industry generally? Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there has been a recommendation to this effect. What are the Government going to do to put a little impulsive effort behind it?

Yes, my noble Friend is very well aware of the recommendation made by the Advisory Council on Scientific Policy, and several development companies have been formed by research associations. In addition to that, we are starting to try out civil development contracts with scientific research associations.

asked the Secretary of State for War what steps he is taking to make available alternative accommodation for British troops and their wives and families in Germany who may be homeless after 6th May as a result of the recent decision of the Bundesrat not to extend requisitioning.

None is necessary at this stage. The Federal Government took steps to prevent the evictions which the hon. Member has in mind.

Does that mean that the agreement under the Paris Agreement really supersedes the Bundesrat's new order? Will the Minister make it per- fectly clear to the Germans that if any British troops are affected, they will not remain in Germany but will be brought home?

The position is that the legislative action necessary to fulfil their international obligations is a matter for the Federal Government, but, naturally, Her Majesty's Government are watching the position closely and will do everything to safeguard the interests of the forces there.

Will the Under-Secretary keep this matter very much in mind, because, as the status of our troops in Germany changes, as it is bound to do, nothing is more important than that the comparatively high standard of comfort of the troops and, above all, of their families is maintained in this big command. This has as much influence on recruiting as almost anything else.

Yes, Sir; my right hon. Friend is well aware of the importance of those considerations.

asked the Secretary of State for War what progress has been made in the declared intention of getting rid of unnecessary fatigues and time wasting activities.

Unnecessary scrubbing, burnishing, blancoing and polishing have been forbidden and unit administration has been reviewed to cut out waste of time. My right hon. Friend has received preliminary reports which indicate that considerable progress has been made. There will, however, be no question of any slackness being tolerated in the personal turn-out and smartness of soldiers or in the effectiveness and cleanliness of their arms, equipment or barracks.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the declaration about getting rid of "bull" has been well received in most quarters and should encourage the recruitment of the right type of man for the technical Army of the future? Will he and his right hon. Friend press on with reforms which will get rid of stupid duties without any loss of efficiency?

Yes, Sir; that is what we are doing.

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will now make a statement on the impersonation of coloured persons engaged in riots which at present forms part of the monthly routine at Deerbolt Camp.

My right hon. Friend has been into this Question and is satisfied that the present practice adopted in training should not give offence.

May I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he has had consultations with the Secretary of State for the Colonies on this matter, as he promised, and whether he is aware that this practice is in fact giving considerable offence among coloured peoples in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean?

Yes, Sir, my right hon. Friend has been in touch with the Colonial Secretary. I would add that instructions have been issued that special care should be taken to avoid impersonations which could be taken as representing any particular territory.

Would my right hon. Friend consider asking that the Member for Eton and Slough (Mr. Fenner Brockway) should give his services so as to stir the rioters up to even greater indignation?

asked the Secretary of State for War how much money has been spent in maintenance on the Ovenden Camp, Halifax, since its occupation by the Royal Army Pay Corps.

About £ 9,000, including several small alterations and improvements.

In view of the excessive expenditure and the unsatisfactory site of this camp, will the Under-Secretary consider transferring the Royal Army Pay Corps back to its original quarters in Leeds?

No, Sir. I do not accept that the expenditure in question is excessive for a camp of that size, nor do I accept that its present site is unsatisfactory. My right hon. Friend is not willing to consider transferring it back to Leeds.

asked the Secretary of State for War for what purpose and under what agreements the ten Syrian, Israeli and Egyptian officers are receiving instruction at War Department establishments.

This instruction depends on no formal agreement. It has long been our policy to offer courses at military establishments to friendly States with the object of furthering good relations.

Will my hon. Friend explain why he classifies some of these countries as friendly States? Would it not be infinitely better to stop receiving their officers and training them in war until they have changed their attitude towards this country?

If some of these countries are not as friendly as they might be, possibly the effect of these courses will be to make them more friendly.

asked the Secretary of State for War what progress is being made with the inquiry being conducted by his Department with a view to improving stocktaking methods in the Army and eliminating accounting errors; and if he will make a statement.

This inquiry has involved much detailed investigation, and an extensive programme of visits to depots to examine the practical difficulties of storehouse organisation, accounting and stocktaking methods. The conclusions to be drawn from this examination and proposals for improving existing methods are now being worked out.

Is progress really being made with that inquiry? When shall we see some practical results?

Yes, Sir, progress is being made, and I hope that it will be possible to report conclusions shortly, but it would be improper for me to seek to prejudge these conclusions before they are reached by the Working Party.

asked the Secretary of State for War why British soldiers stationed in Singapore have been forbidden when off duty or when talking to Asian civilians to discuss Malayan independence.

No such orders have been issued to British soldiers in Singapore. They have, however, been reminded of the limitations imposed by Queen's Regulations on political activities..

I have here a cutting from a reliable newspaper—[Horn. MEMBERS "Which is it?"]— the Westminster Press— which indicates that the General Officer Commanding Singapore District —

The hon. Member has not yet asked a question.

I was about to do so.

It would be more in order if the hon. Member asked his question first. We should then know that he was asking a question and not making a speech.

It is hon. Members opposite—

Write to the Daily Workeror perhaps Tribune.

If the brain of the hon. Member for Kidderminster (Mr. Nabarro) were as big as his mouth, he would be a very clever fellow. Is the Under-Secretary aware that this order was issued by the General Officer Commanding Singapore District? Would he not agree that when officers give lectures in which they give these instructions, that is treating grown-up soldiers as though they were simple children, and that instructions of this kind harm recruiting more than anything else does?

I have already indicated that orders on the lines indicated by the hon. Member were not issued by General Tulloch, or anybody else.

Is it not desirable that both soldiers and civilians in Singapore and Malaya should know as much as possible about independence, and that therefore discussion between civilians and our soldiers should be encouraged?

Nothing is being done to prevent discussion on those lines.

asked the Secretary of State for War what special steps are being taken to bring the new incentives to savings to the notice of officers and men serving in the Army.

Special posters and leaflets are being prepared by Her Majesty's Forces Savings Committee. These will be prominently displayed and widely distributed. In addition, all unit savings officers are being provided with full details of the new securities.

Will these posters be displayed and, if so, by what date? Does my hon. Friend agree that the recent increases in Service pay, coupled with the new incentive to saving, offer a special opportunity to an imaginative savings drive in the Services?

Yes, Sir; I am afraid that I cannot give my hon. and gallant Friend an exact date, but the posters are at present being printed.

Does the Under-Secretary really think that the Government lottery will prove more attractive than Housey-housey?

asked the Secretary of State for War what appointment has recently been assigned to Lieut.-General Sir Richard Hull; and the terms of reference relating to his examination of the possible date of termination of National Service.

I gave the terms of reference of the Committee of which General Hull is Chairman in reply to a Question by the hon. Member for Leicester, North-;West (Mr. Janner) last Tuesday.

While everybody recognises the great ability of General Hull, may I ask the Under-Secretary whether he will call his attention particularly to the latter part of his terms of reference about the extent to which civilians and outside organisations can be used? If he makes a good report, at least we may get corresponding action by the other Services which will speedily lead to the abolition of National Service.

I think that we can count on General Hull to read his terms of reference with due care.

Does not the Under-Secretary feel that this morning's news from Russia of a cut of 1,200,000 men strengthens the reasons for entirely abolishing conscription in this country?