Commons Sitting of 14 May 1941

Preamble
[Mr. SPEAKER in the Chair.]
ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS.

  ABYSSINIA.
  Mr. Manderasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the official entry of the Emperor Haile Selassie to his capital, it is now proposed to extend to him full recognition with appropriate diplomatic status and representation?
  The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Eden): While all aspects of our relations with Ethiopia are being carefully considered, military operations in that country are still in progress, and I have therefore nothing at present to add to the statement of policy which I made on 4th February. Hon. Members will have read with gratification the exchange of messages between the Prime Minister and the Emperor of Ethiopia on the occasion of the entry of the Emperor into Addis Ababa.
  Mr. Mander: In view of the messages addressed to His Majesty Haile Selassie, surely it is not possible any longer to speak of him as merely having a claim to the throne. He is well seated upon it.
  Mr. Eden: I think I made the position clear last February, when I pointed out that while military operations are going on in Abyssinia parts of the country will require temporary measures of military guidance and control, and I must adhere to that.

  SYRIA.
  Mr. Gallacherasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement as to the present position in Syria; and whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to endeavour to secure complete self-government for the Syrian people?
  Mr. Eden: I presume that the hon. Member's Question refers to the internal constitutional position in Syria. My information is that the recent changes in the constitution introduced by the French High Commissioner a month ago have been well received. These changes were warmly welcomed by His Majesty's Government, who have always had great sympathy with Syrian aspirations for independence.
  Mr. Gallacher: Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the one outstanding feature of the Syrian position, and the Iraqian and general position throughout Arabia, is the demand of the Arabian people for independence, and will not the Government give serious consideration and support to that movement?
  Mr. Eden: I hope the last part of my answer will meet the very point that the hon. Member has raised.

  FRANCE (BRITISH INTERNEES).
  Major-General Sir Alfred Knoxasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is possible to procure a list of British subjects interned at Besancon or other camps in France; and also, as, parcels are not sent to these people, whether money can be sent to enable them to make purchases in the local canteen?
  Mr. Eden: Lists of internees have been asked for. It is understood from the protecting Power that such lists have now been despatched from Paris. The German authorities have stated that money may be sent to internees up to a total amount of 30 Reichsmarks per month. Advances for the relief of internees were made some time ago by the United States Embassy in Paris to the camps at St. Denis and Besancon.

  CHINA.

    BRITISH TRADE INTERESTS.
    Sir John Wardlaw-Milneasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) whether he has yet received any reply to his recent representations to the Japanese Government on their failure to keep their promises that there should be no discrimination against the trade of other Powers in the occupied districts of China;

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    (2)whether, having regard to the repeated complaints by British merchants in China of the restrictions imposed on trade by the Japanese Army authorities in the occupied areas, and as the declared open door policy of the Tokyo Government is in direct conflict with the policy pursued by the Army authorities in China, what steps he proposes to take to remedy this position;

    (3)whether he will investigate to what extent the policy of repressing all but Japanese trade in the occupied areas of China, which is being carried out by the Japanese Army officials, is approved by the Japanese Government in Tokyo; and whether there is reason to believe that the Japanese Government are imperfectly informed of the drastic manner in which trade regulations are interpreted and applied by the Army against foreign traders?

    Mr. Eden: I have indicated on recent occasions that Japanese discrimination against our interests in China is at variance with numerous assurances of the Japanese Government, and that in the view of His Majesty's Government the Japanese Government cannot divest themselves of responsibility. I have stated that representations have been addressed to that Government and to its representatives, the outcome of which has been unsatisfactory. To this I must add that I have now instructed His Majesty's Ambassador in Tokyo to reply to Japanese complaints of economic restrictions in British territories by saying that, while our main object is to conserve supplies for our war effort and to prevent these supplies from reaching our enemies, we are naturally influenced in deciding our economic policy by the attitude of the Japanese Government towards our interests in China.
    Sir J. Wardlaw-Milne: Arising out of that reply, with which I am sure we shall all feel satisfied and for which the House will be very grateful, because it shows a determination of policy which is very desirable, can the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that the policy will be pursued with determination in future?
    Mr. Eden:My hon. Friend may be assured that we will do our best. The position is plain. If the Japanese complain to us of our economic policy, they can expect no help in that direction until
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    they treat our interests in China with proper consideration.
    Mr. Hannahasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action he has taken with reference to the declaration made by the chairman of the Peking People's Anti-British Association that no leniency should be shown to anybody openly selling British goods?
    Mr. Eden: I have called for a report, and will then consider what action may be appropriate.

    BRITISH RELATIONS.
    Mr. Rickardsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make any statement on the relations between His Majesty's Government and the National Government of China at Chungking?
    Mr. Eden: The relations between oar two Governments remain, I am happy to say, on terms of the closest cordiality and co-operation. Engaged as we are in a life and death struggle against aggression in Europe and in the Middle East, the efforts of China to resist foreign domination and to preserve her independence have a natural appeal to the people of this country. His Majesty's Government have done what they could in the past, and will continue to do what they can in the future, to help China to maintain her independence.

  GERMAN TORPEDO BOATS (PASSAGE THROUGH FRANCE).
  Mr. Purbrickasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether protest has been made to the Vichy Government for allowing German small torpedo boats to descend the Rhone through France, and through Marseilles into the Mediterranean?
  Mr. Eden:No, Sir. I do not consider this the best course to pursue in existing circumstances.

  IRAQ (SITUATION).
  Sir Henry Morris-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the present position in Iraq?
  Mr. Eden: According to the latest reports from Iraq, the small forces of the

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  R.A.F. stationed at Habbaniya, having successfully beaten off the attack of the Iraqi forces under the orders of Rashid Ali, are now in control of the whole area round the cantonment. Both they and the Imperial forces at Basra are being rapidly reinforced, and vigorous air action is being carried out by the R.A.F. against military objectives throughout Iraq. This will be continued. His Majesty's Government are convinced that the action of Rashid Ali and his supporters in launching an attack upon the loyal ally of their country, is not upheld by the Iraqi people as a whole. His Majesty's Government never have had, and have not now, any intention of threatening the independence of Iraq. Their sole desire has been to safeguard their legitimate treaty rights, which rights it is their intention to maintain.
  Sir H. Morris-Jones: Does the right hon. Gentleman anticipate that within a measurable distance of time we shall have control of all strategic centres in Iraq?
  Mr. Eden: I do not like to anticipate anything in military operations. I prefer to see them realised.
  Mr. Price: May we assume that the oil line has not been cut?
  Mr. Eden: That is another question.
  Mr. Mander:Can the right hon. Gentleman say anything about the possible return of the Regent with a truly constitutional Government?
  Mr. Eden: That is very much in our mind.

  FRANCE AND GERMANY (AGREEMENT).
  Mr. Martinasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make any statement about the present policy of the French Government, and, in particular, the recent agreement reached with the German Government?
  Mr. Eden: The policy which has been adopted and declared by the French Government is collaboration with Germany within certain limits which have not, so far as I am aware, been clearly defined. The agreement with the German
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  Government of 5th May provides, according to the official announcement issued at Vichy, for the alleviation of the restrictive measures regarding the line of demarcation between occupied and unoccupied France and for the reduction of the costs of occupation from 400,000,000 to 300,000,000 francs a day. The line of demarcation would, according to the communiqué, be open generally for the passage of goods between the two zones and also for persons in the case of serious illness of near relatives; the despatch of plain postcards from one zone to the other was also to be authorised and soldiers and airmen were to be allowed to pass from one zone to the other under the conditions which had hitherto been applied to sailors only. No official announcement has been made regarding what may have been conceded by France in return for these so-called concessions, but the agreement is described in Vichy as a new step along the path of collaboration.
  Sir, whatever concessions Admiral Darlan may have agreed to, I find it hard to believe that the French people helpless though they may be to prevent the systematic German spoliation of their resources, will be so false to their noble traditions as to work actively of their own free will for the German cause, and thus to prolong the period of their own sufferings and to postpone the day of their own liberation.
  Mr. Martin:Apart from this agreement, have any further concessions been made by France in the Colonial sphere?
  Mr. Eden: I have given the hon. Member a full statement of the position as we know it.

  ROYAL AIR FORCE.

    ENEMY NIGHT RAIDS.
    Mr. Manderasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will give an assurance that instructions have been given to searchlight unit brigadiers and sector controllers in the Royal Air Force, to co-operate to the fullest possible extent in joint practice in defence against night attack and in conference on the problems as they arise and experience gained, and that the appointment of liaison officers for this purpose will be considered.
    The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour): My hon. Friend can rest assured that constant attention is given to the problem of cooperation between searchlights and night fighters. With regard to the last part of the Question, arrangements have been made for an exchange of officers between the Services concerned. These officers are being appointed to executive posts, in which their experience can be used to better advantage than if they were employed only on liaison duties.
    Mr. Mander: Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman bear in mind, with regard to co-operation between the two sides of the Service, that there appears to be considerable room for improvement in the minds of those who are actively connected with the work, and will he give it his close attention?
    Captain Balfour: Certainly.
    Mr. Manderasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will consider the advisability of publishing, together with the nightly number of enemy aircraft destroyed, the approximate number of enemy machines taking part in the raid.
    Captain Balfour: It would not be in the public interest to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion.
    Mr. Mander: Cannot the hon. and gallant Gentleman give some sort of statement on the subject, in view of the fact that the figures lose a great part of their value if nothing is said about the percentage brought down?
    Captain Balfour: On the other hand, the hon. Member will appreciate that it is an elementary principle of security that no commander should give a public estimate of the strength of the enemy opposed to him, because it at once gives the enemy an appreciation of the value of your own Intelligence system.
    Mr. Mander: Do not the Germans know how many they have sent over?
    Captain Balfour: Very likely.

    PETROL (USE).
    Mr. A. Edwardsasked the Secretary of State for Air whethere he is aware that it is the practice at many aerodromes for men to use high octane fuel for cleaning machines and floors; and whether he
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    will issue directions that such practice must be stopped, and that officers or men permitting it shall be punished?
    Captain Balfour: Regulations are in force which expressly forbid the practice referred to in the hon. Member's Question. If the hon. Member has any evidence that these regulations are being disobeyed and will let me have particulars, I will certainly make inquiries. As regards the second part of the Question, the attention of all concerned was recently drawn to the need for strict enforcement of these regulations, and a further reminder is now being prepared for issue to units.
    Mr. Edwards: Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that a month or two ago I sent him some correspondence which came to me from several sources and that he promised to take more determined action, and is he further aware that in recent weeks I have checked this up with a good many Service men to whom I have given lifts on the road, every one of whom confirms that there is considerable waste of petrol, and will he make this reminder very strong indeed?
    Captain Balfour: We will certainly make it very strong indeed. The hon. Member did send me particulars, and I had them investigated, but I could not find any confirmation. If he will send me particulars of any particular unit concerning which this allegation is made, I will certainly have it looked into.

  WORKS AND BUILDINGS.

    BUILDING INDUSTRY.
    Mr. Mortasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings (1) what steps are being taken by his Ministry to enlist the support and advice and collaboration of the building industry in regard to the Government building programme; and
    (2) whether he has any information to give the House regarding the mobilising or control of the building industry in view of the public interest recently shown in the matter?
    The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings (Mr. Hicks): Among the recent steps taken to enlist the support, advice and collaboration of the building industry, my Noble

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    Friend has arranged for an investigation to be made into the best means to secure a united body fully representative of all interests connected with building and construction work. Also, the Minister of Works and Buildings has, with the Minister of Labour, initiated discussions with the building industries which have now reached a stage when it will be possible to take effective action to secure the maximum effort of which the building industry is capable; and I would like to pay a tribute to the patriotic and unselfish attitude exhibited by many in the industry in this matter.
    Mr. Gordon Macdonald:Will my hon. Friend keep in mind, when he sets up this body, that it is essential that it should have the full confidence of all operating in the building industry?
    Mr. Hicks: We hope for that.

    EMERGENCY REPAIRS.
    Mr. Priceasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he can give the House any information on the activities of the air-raid reconstruction organisation of the Ministry which was established recently?
    Mr. Hicks:The Emergency Repairs Organisation is now practically complete, and emergency works officers have been available for some time in about 30 important industrial centres Some 70 heavy air attacks have been dealt with and useful assistance, both technical and in labour and material, has been given in conjunction with the Ministry of Health, to local authorities in connection with housing repairs. The arrangements for repairs to war factories and for supplies of labour and materials have worked smoothly and satisfactorily in association with the Emergency Services Organisation.

    CEMENT.
    Mr. A. Edwardsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he is aware that the total cost of manufacturing cement at certain factories is not more than 20s. per ton; and whether he will seek powers to control the selling price so as to avoid excessive prices being fixed by the cement combine?
    Mr. Hicks: I am not aware of any case in which cement manufacturing costs are
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    as low as 20s. per ton. As regards the last part of the Question, the industry has submitted to a voluntary control of prices, which has been in operation for a considerable period, and the Ministry are satisfied that current price levels are not excessive.
    Mr. Edwards:Can the hon. Gentleman say what that controlled price is to-day?
    Mr. Hicks: It varies. Of course, there is a controlled price at the works, but it varies, by units of 5 miles, according to the distance which it is conveyed from the works to the job. But there is an independent technical examination given at my Ministry to all changes of prices, which are constantly checked.
    Mr. Edwardsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he is aware that the cement combine representatives hold all the controlling positions in Government departments, which is preventing unbiased and constructive proposals being fairly considered; and whether he will provide for the highest positions dealing with special interests being held by disinterested persons?
    Mr. Hicks:No, Sir; so far as the Ministry of Works and Buildings is concerned, the only responsible post in this Ministry connected with cement is that of Director of Cement, and the holder ceased to act as independent chairman of the Cement Manufacturers' Federation on appointment to his present position. I may add that my Noble Friend some months ago appointed an independent committee to inquire into cement production in relation to current and potential future demands. This committee has taken evidence from all the interests concerned; its report has been received and is now under consideration.
    Mr. Edwards: Is it not a fact that the controller is still paid by the cement combine, and that the effective controller, who is usually in attendance with the Director, his immediate chief, is known, as has been pointed out in the Press recently, as the Danish Quisling, and does not the Minister of Transport think that that is a dangerous situation?
    Mr. Hicks: I cannot accept the implications of my hon. Friend's suggestion. I can only say that the Director of Cement

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    was appointed by my right hon. Friend the Minister, and he has no longer any effective control of the cement industry. He is working voluntarily, and he is supposed to understand—and I think he does understand—the industry, and I thought one of the best efforts in this war was to find people who know their job.
    Mr. Edwards: Is he not still paid by the cement combine?
    Mr. Hicks: He is not being paid by the Ministry of Works and Buildings.
    Mr. Edwards: But is he not paid by the cement combine?
    Mr. Hicks: I cannot answer that.
    Mr. Lyons: Can my hon. Friend find out whether he is being paid directly by the trade concerned in matters on which he is now asked to adjudicate?
    Mr. Hicks:If my hon. Friend will put that question down, I will endeavour to answer it.
    Mr. Lyons: But does not the hon. Gentleman know?

    UTHWATT COMMITTEE (INTERIM REPORT).
    Mr. Kenneth Lindsayasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he has yet received the interim report of the committee sitting under the chairmanship of Mr. Justice Uthwatt; whether it is to be published; and what action he is pro posing to take?
    Mr. Hicks:Yes, Sir. My Noble Friend has received an interim report from the committee which is receiving immediate consideration by the Cabinet Committee on Reconstruction Problems, and will be presented to Parliament at an early date.
    Mr. Lindsay:Can my hon. Friend say whether it is proposed to introduce legislation, or whether action is contemplated?
    Mr. Hicks: We are hoping to get the report about the end of the month, and it will then be a matter for Parliament to consider.

  ROYAL HELLENIC NAVY.
  Sir Irving Alberyasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what Greek naval vessels are now available to assist His Majesty's Navy; and whether any fell into enemy hands?
  The Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty (Sir Victor Warrender): As was to be expected in view of the very active and gallant part played by the Royal Hellenic Navy during recent operations in Greek waters, some losses were suffered, but I am glad to say that a number of extremely useful and modern vessels arrived safely at Alexandria. I do not think it advisable to publish further details.
  Sir I. Albery: I do not want to press my hon. Friend, but can he assure us that none of the Greek vessels have been put into service with the enemy?
  Sir V. Warrender: That was just one of the questions I was concerned not to answer.

  ROYAL NAVY (OFFICERS' PROMOTION).
  Commander Bowerasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Board will seek powers to promote commanders and lieutenant-commanders on the active list of the Royal Navy who have been passed over for promotion in time of peace but have subsequently proved their fitness for higher rank by distinquished war service?
  Sir V. Warrender: The change which my hon. and gallant Friend proposes is not required. Officers who in peace-time have been passed over are not debarred from subsequent promotion.
  Commander Bower: Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in actual practice, these promotions are taking place? I have been informed that they are not.
  Sir V. Warrender: Yes, Sir. There have been one or two lieutenant-commanders promoted to the rank of commander, which would come within the hon. Gentleman's Question.

  SYNTHETIC FUEL OIL.
  Mr. David Adamsasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether experiments in Palestine in the production of synthetic fuel oil from soya beans have yet reached a stage of practical utility; and what area the Government of Palestine propose to cultivate during the present year?
  The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. George Hall): I am not aware that experiments of this kind are in progress in Palestine, where the local production of oil seeds is wholly absorbed by the demand for edible oils and ample supplies of natural fuel oil are available. So far as I am aware, there has never been any cultivation of soya beans in Palestine except on a small scale as an experimental crop.
  Mr. Adams: If I send the Minister details of the information I have received on this subject, will he go into the matter?
  Mr. Hall: Yes, Sir.

  TRANSPORT.

    WOMEN BUS CONDUCTORS (SEATS).
    Sir I. Alberyasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether any kind of seating arrangements are provided for women motor-omnibus conductors?
    The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Colonel Llewellin):As a rule, no special seating arrangements are provided for women omnibus conductors; in general there is no room to construct a seat on the platform of a bus. A conductress is, however, allowed to occupy a vacant seat in the bus provided that using it does not interfere with the execution of her duties.
    Sir I. Albery:Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that many of these bus conductresses seem to be unaware of that?
    Colonel Llewellin: Perhaps my hon. Friend's Question will have given the necessary publicity.
    Miss Eleanor Rathbone: Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that fatigue caused by unaccustomed duties is causing absenteeism among women bus conductresses, and cannot he give attention to the subject with a view to seeing that some device can be introduced to lessen fatigue and improve the efficiency of women conductors?
    Colonel Llewellin: I quite appreciate that, but it is difficult, as everybody knows who has travelled on a bus, to put an extra seat on the platform. This
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    privilege or right given to the conductresses to sit down when there is a vacant seat will, I think, very largely meet the case.
    Mr. Kirkwood: Can the right hon. and gallant Gentleman tell us if that applies to Scotland also?
    Colonel Llewellin: I do not think it does.

    TRAM AND BUS RETUKN TICKETS.
    Mr. Frankelasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether he is aware that the present rule whereby return tickets on omnibuses and tramcars are only available on the day of issue is creating hardship in many cases owing to the present emergency; and whether representations can be made to transport undertakings, throughout the country, in favour of a more flexible arrangement, as is done in certain cases with respect to workmen's tickets?
    Colonel Llewellin: If my hon. Friend will send me particulars of cases where hardship arises, I will certainty look into them.
    Mr. Frankel: It is the general principle, not particular cases, upon which I would like the Minister to reply.
    Colonel Llewellin: These cheap return tickets are available for a reasonable period after the end of the shift, even if the end of the shift comes upon the day after the ticket is issued.
    Mr. Frankel: Is the Minister aware that much greater privileges than this exist in other transport services? Cannot he extend them to the trams and buses?
    Colonel Llewellin: I thought my hon. Friend's Question referred to all transport services. I will look into the position in regard to trams and buses.

    SECOND-HAND MOTOR CARS (PRICES).
    Mr. Sorensenasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether he is aware that prices for used motor cars have risen in some cases 35 per cent. above makers' list prices; that the motor trade admit this is due primarily to speculation in anticipation of future demand; and whether, as this may lead to the payment of war damage compensation based on inflated values, he will reconsider introducing some control of prices for used motor cars?
    Colonel Llewellin:There have, of course, been cases in which purchasers of second-hand cars have been prepared to buy them at prices considerably above makers' list prices. I am not aware of what my hon. Friend suggests in the second part of his Question. In regard to the third part, I have nothing to add to what my right hon. and gallant Friend, now the Minister of Aircraft Production, said in answer to a similar Question by my hon. Friend on 9th April.
    Mr. Sorensen: Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that from the motor trade itself, as well as from elsewhere, there is a very strong demand for some kind of control of prices for used motor cars; and that it is held to be possible to surmount the difficulties of which he is no doubt aware?
    Colonel Llewellin:It is rather difficult, because some people use their cars so much more than others. The value of used cars, even in their second year, is not the same, because of differences in the amount of use and in the manner of driving them.
    Mr. Sorensen:Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the motor trade are thoroughly familiar with those

    London Passenger Transport Board.

    22nd May, 1933.

    At present.

    £

    £

    Lord Ashfield

    …

    …

    …

    12,500

    12,500

    Mr. Frank Pick

    …

    …

    …

    10,000

    —

    Appointment expired 17.5.40.

    Mr. John Cliff

    …

    …

    …

    750†

    3,000*

    Sir Henry Maybury

    …

    …

    750†

    750†

    Mr. P. Ashley Cooper

    …

    …

    750†

    750†

    Sir J. W. Gilbert

    …

    …

    …

    750†

    —

    Died 22.12.34.

    Mr. Charles Latham

    …

    …

    —

    750†

    Appointed 21.1.35.

    Sir E. J. Holland

    …

    …

    …

    750†

    —

    Appointment expired 17.5.39.

    Col. Forrester Clayton

    …

    …

    —

    750†

    Appointed 18.5.39.

    * Appointed full-time member 4.2.35 at £1,500; increased to £3,000 from 1.5.40 when, consequent upon the retirement of Mr. Pick, Mr. Cliff undertook additional duties as Head of the Staff and Staff Welfare Department with the title of "Executive Officer for Staff and Staff Welfare."

    † Part-time members.

    PETROL RATIONING.
    Mr. David Adamsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether he is aware that many professional and other citizens continue to use large high-powered motor-cars, which could, with equal efficiency, be replaced by low-power motor cars; and whether, as in the national interest many users have voluntarily made this change, he will now make it obligatory for this to be done in all appropriate cases?
    facts? Would he not consider the matter from a fresh angle?
    Mr. Lyons: Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that the industry were never able to fix the value of second hand motor cars because of variations in the amount of use?
    Colonel Llewellin: That, of course, is true. There have to be variations in the prices on motor dealers' lists, which are only rough average prices.

    LONDON PASSENGER TRANSPORT BOARD.
    Mr. Parkerasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport what salaries are paid to the chairman, vice-chairman and members of the London Passenger Transport Board; and what changes have been made since the reply given on 22nd May, 1933?
    Colonel LlewellinAs the reply contains a number of figures, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
    Mr. Parker:Are any of these persons allowed to take other paid jobs in addition to these posts?
    Colonel Llewellin: I should want notice of that question.
    Following is the answer:
    The Secretary for Petroleum (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd): I have been asked to reply. I would refer the hon. Member to the Answer which I gave on 6th May to the hon. Member for Finchley (Mr. Crowder), of which I am sending him a copy.
    Mr. Adams:I have seen a copy of that. In view of the fact that the Minister does not seem to be accepting the valuable suggestions that I have made in the

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    Question, would he say what other steps he proposes in order to deal with the position?
    Mr. Lloyd:No, Sir. The regulations already go a considerable way, accord-to the Answer.

  MINISTRY OF INFORMATION.

    FILMS (ARMED FORCES).
    Captain John Dugdaleasked the Minister of Information the number of films produced under the auspices of his Department shown to the Army, the Navy and the Air Force, respectively, during the past month?
    The Minister of Information (Mr. Duff Cooper): The showing is under the control of the Service Departments, and I have no records. During the last month the Film Library of the Ministry of Information has lent 269 copies of films to the War Office, 20 to the Admiralty, and 90 to the Air Ministry, each of which will have been shown a minimum of three times and a maximum of perhaps a dozen times, before being returned. In addition, the Army owns 101 copies, the Navy 69, and the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes 18 copies of films obtained from the Ministry; but I have no information how often they are shown.
    Captain Dugdale:Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many units are informed that, as the War Office refuse to pay for such films, they cannot be shown to them; and that therefore many units are deprived of the opportunity of seeing the films?
    Mr. Cooper:As far as I am aware, those units are misinformed.
    Mr. Sorensen: Have all of those films been produced in this country?
    Mr. Cooper: Yes, Sir.
    Captain Dugdale:Will the right hon. Gentleman make it perfectly clear that, in fact, these films are available for these units?
    Mr. Cooper: I will do my best.

    EUROPEAN NEWS SERVICE.
    Captain Dugdaleasked the Minister of Information the languages in which the European news service is broadcast?
    Mr. Cooper: I will circulate in the Official Report particulars of the 25 European languages in which the B.B.C. now broadcasts.
    Following are the particulars:
    In the European service, news bulletins are broadcast daily in the following languages:

    Albanian.

    Bulgarian.

    Czech.

    Danish.

    Dutch.

    English.

    Finnish.

    Flemish.

    French (including a bulletin primarily intended for Belgium).

    German (including a bulletin primarily intended for Austria).

    Greek.

    Italian

    Magyar.

    Norwegian.

    Polish.

    Portuguese.

    Rumanian.

    Serbo-Croat.

    Slovene.

    Spanish.

    Swedish.

    In addition, news is broadcast in Icelandic (newsletter once a week), Slovak (irregular broadcasts in Czech bulletins) and Luxembourg patois (newsletter once a week). A weekly newsletter in Maltese is included in the B.B.C.'s Empire service.

    BROADCASTS TO SWITZERLAND.
    Sir George Broadbridgeasked the Minister of Information why it is proposed to discontinue the British Broadcasting Corporation broadcasts to Switzerland; and on what date?
    Mr. Cooper:In view of the fact that the French, German and English transmissions of the B.B.C. are listened to in Switzerland, it was felt that the time allotted to the broadcasts addressed directly to that country might be more profitably utilised in other directions. These broadcasts were accordingly discontinued on 7th May.
    Sir I. Albery:In what language are these broadcasts to Switzerland made?
    Mr. Cooper:In French, German, and Italian.
    Sir G. Broadbridge:Is not the decision to discontinue the broadcasts due to German pressure upon the Swiss Government?
    Mr. Cooper: Not so far as His Majesty's Government arc concerned.
    Mr. Mander:Have representations on the subject been received by the Government from anybody in Switzerland, either the Swiss Government or private persons?
    Mr. Cooper:I should want notice of that question.

    QUESTIONNAIRES.
    Sir Percy Hurdasked the Minister of Information whether it is the practice of his Ministry to issue questionnaires to the public; what have been the subjects of questionnaires during the. present year; to whom they have been sent; and what use is made of the results?
    Mr. Cooper:It is not the practice of the Ministry of Information to issue questionnaires to the public, and the remainder of the Question does not, therefore, arise.
    Sir P. Hurd:Was not a questionnaire issued on the subject of the Sunday closing of theatres, asking people whether they did or did not approve of the action of the Government and of the House of Commons? Is it the business of the Department to intervene in this way between Members of Parliament and their constituents?
    Mr. Cooper:No such questionnaire was issued by the Ministry of Information.
    Mr. Maxton: Is the Minister still carrying on his mass psychology investigation?
    Mr. Cooper: I still think it my duty to keep myself informed of public opinion; but no such questionnaire was issued.
    Mr. Maxton: Is the observation still being carried on by the Minister's experts?
    Mr. Cooper:Certainly, observation is carried on, and reports are being obtained by local committees of the Ministry.
    Mr. Maxton rose—
    Mr. Speaker:The Question before the House is whether any questionnaire was issued. The Answer was in the negative, and that ends the matter.
    Mr. Maxton: That is the point upon which I am trying to get an answer.
    Mr. Speaker:That is another point altogether.

    FACTORY MEETINGS.
    Major Lloydasked the Minister of Information whether he will encourage regional committees of the Ministry of Information to invite local Members of Parliament to address lunch-hour meetings of workers and staffs in factories in their own constituencies, in order to express appreciation of the magnificent services which are being rendered by the factories to our war effort, and to encourage the workers concerned to still further efforts in the future?
    Mr. Cooper: I am informed that meetings of the kind suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend are being held in many parts of the country, with excellent results, and I shall be glad to do anything in my power to assist in the organisation of such meetings wherever the need for them is felt.
    Mr. Buchanan:Does the Minister accept the position that such speakers should make statements that often reflect in a derogatory manner upon certain opinions held in this country? For instance, does he take the view of a recent speaker at Hamilton that people in the West of Scotland who are having large families are not the right type of people to have them and that it would be better for certain other people to have large families?
    Mr. Cooper:I cannot answer offhand for the views of the anonymous speakers to whom the hon. Member is referring. If he has any complaint about any speaker on behalf of the Ministry of Information, perhaps he will let me have particulars.

    UNITED STATES PRESS CORRESPONDENTS (HOUSE OF COMMONS FACILITIES).
    Sir H. Morris-Jonesasked the Minister of Information whether he is satisfied that adequate facilities are being granted to correspondents of the United States Press in London to pay constant visits to this House?
    Mr. Cooper:I had recently, owing largely to your sympathetic support, Mr. Speaker, been able to arrange a new

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    system under which United States correspondents attending the debates of this House would have been given greater facilities and enjoyed greater amenities. I regret that altered circumstances now present a fresh problem, but I shall do my best, in existing circumstances, to meet, so far as possible, the convenience of American correspondents.
    Mr. Granville: When the right hon. Gentleman is able to give those facilities, will he see that facilities are also provided for American correspondents to release news in time for them to get it into the American papers?
    Mr. Cooper: I always try to release the news as soon as I get it.

    GERMAN PROPAGANDA, MIDDLE EAST.
    Sir H. Morris-Jonesasked the Minister of Information what steps he is taking to counteract German propaganda and influence in the Middle East; and whether he is satisfied that the work of his Department is not being in any way restricted through lack of adequate finance?
    Mr. Cooper: All possible steps are being taken by news services, broadcasting, films, and by literary and pictorial publicity, to see that the truth is known over the Middle East. It would not be in the public interest to describe the methods in detail, but they are not hampered by lack of adequate finance.

  POST OFFICE.

    INFORMATION TO PUBLIC.
    Mr. David Adamsasked the Post master-General whether, in view of the unsatisfactory, and ofter conflicting, in formation supplied to inquirers at post offices, he has considered the desirability of informing the public, by poster display in post offices and by broadcast, instead of by circulars to postal officials, of salient matters of postal importance to the community?
    The Postmaster-General (Mr. W. S. Morrison): A great deal of postal information is already given by means of notices displayed in post offices, but if the hon. Member has particular items in mind, I shall be happy to consider suggestions. The fullest possible use is also made of broadcast and Press announcements.
    Mr. Adams: As the information 1 have received comes from a leading postal official, I shall be very happy to supply it.

    LETTER COLLECTIONS AND DELIVERIES.
    Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the Postmaster-General whether he is satisfied that the recent rearrangement of postal collections and deliveries will result in quicker and more efficient postal services for the public?
    Mr. W. S. Morrison: Yes, Sir.
    Sir T. Moore: Can my right hon. Friend then give an assurance to the House that actually to-day letters which are posted in London are delivered in London the same day, and delivered the following day outside London?
    Mr. Morrison: Yes, Sir, but it depends when they are posted. My hon. and gallant Friend and the House can be assured that everything possible is being done in existing circumstances to give a speedy delivery of letters.

  BOMBED PROPERTIES (GROUND RENT).
  Mr. Bellengerasked the Attorney-General when he proposes to introduce legislation to deal with ground rents of bombed and unfit properties; and is he aware that in some cases solicitors, acting for ground landlords, have issued writs for forfeiture of leases where ground rent remains unpaid on such properties?
  Mr. W. H. Greenasked the Attorney-General whether he is in a position to state when promised legislation is likely to be introduced to deal with the grievance at present suffered by owners of leasehold property, which has been demolished by the enemy and who, at present, are compelled to continue to pay the full ground rent to the ground landlord?
  The Solicitor-General (Sir William Jowitt): I am aware that action has been taken in some cases to enforce the payment of ground rent. Notice of presentation of the Landlord and Tenant (War Damage Amendment) Bill which deals with this subject appears in to-day's Order Paper, and copies of the Bill will be available at the Vote Office.
  Mr. Bellenger:While the latter part of that answer is satisfactory, may I ask the right hon. and learned Gentleman to take steps to discourage the starting of actions in this matter, which only involve heavy costs, sometimes more than the amount of the ground rent, in view of the Bill which is now to come before Parliament?
  The Solicitor-General: Perhaps the Bill which is being introduced will have the desired effect.

  NATIONAL WAR EFFORT (WOMEN).
  Miss Wardasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the broad cast of Mr. Menzies and his appreciation of the part being played by women in the war effort, he will reconsider the various requests put forward by the women Members of this House which have been rejected?
  The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. Attlee): The requests to which my hon. Friend refers concern a number of Departments. If it is felt that circumstances have so changed that any particular matter should be reconsidered, perhaps hon. Members would be good enough to address their representations to the Minister concerned.
  Miss Ward:Is my right hon. Friend aware that the general policy regarding this essential work by women Members has been rejected, and can he give an answer on the general policy and not on Departmental policy?
  Mr. Attlee:Perhaps the hon. Lady will put that question down. She asked a Question about the various requests.

  MINISTRY OF SUPPLY.

    SCRAP METAL.
    Sir T. Mooreasked the Minister of Supply whether he is satisfied that he is obtaining all available steel and iron scrap for the prosecution of the war effort?
    The Minister of Supply (Sir Andrew Duncan): I am glad to be able to say that we have not yet experienced any stringency in supplies of iron and steel scrap. Our plans for collection of home scrap have been based upon requirements, and the reserves known to be available at home
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    will be drawn upon as and when required, having regard to the supplies available from abroad.

    RAILINGS (ACQUISITION).
    Mr. Lyonsasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the delay that is being made in surrendering certain required railings in Fleetwood; whether, in view of past events, he will no longer acquiesce in this or any other delay of such material wanted for the war effort; and whether he will use his compulsory powers for acquisition of these railings forthwith?
    Sir A. Duncan:I understand that the Fleetwood Council are reconsidering their decision not to surrender certain ornamental railings belonging to them. In general, substantial quantities of railings for use as scrap are coming forward steadily under the present arrangements, but I shall not hesitate to use compulsory powers as and when necessary.
    Mr. Lyons: In view of the fact that my right hon. Friend wanted these railings and asked for them for war purposes, why on earth should Fleetwood Council or any other council stand in his way; is not. this just a repetition of the delay that occurred in reference to Berkeley Square, which he said he would not countenance, and will he drop this "flag-day" attitude on this matter?
    Sir A. Duncan:There is no flag-day attitude on this question, which is an ordinary business operation. The moment we find that it is necessary to use compulsory powers to obtain the scrap required for our manufacturing purposes, compulsory powers will be taken.
    Mr. Lipson: Will the right hon. Gentleman write to local authorities and request them to consider whether they cannot surrender more railings than they have already done?
    Sir A. Duncan: Yes, Sir, we are in constant communication with local authorities and different Departments on the question of railings.
    Mr. Lyons:My right hon. Friend has powers, has he not?
    Sir A. Duncan: We have powers, but we require more powers of compulsion, and those powers will be asked for as soon as it is felt necessary.

    KITCHEN WASTE.
    Mr. Evelyn Walkdenasked the Minister of Supply whether he has now had an opportunity to consider fully the report of the special committee on kitchen waste; whether he proposes to publish the recommendations; and what steps have been taken to put them into effect?
    Sir A. Duncan: I have now been able to consider, in conjunction with the other Ministers concerned, the report of the special committee on kitchen waste, and a Waste Food Board is being set up to carry out the recommendations contained therein. A copy of the report has been placed in the Library of the House.
    Mr. Walkden: Has the right hon. Gentleman issued instructions to the Board telling them of the need for energetic action and warning them that the delay each day is equal to the sinking of a food ship, with a cargo of 1,000 tons?
    Sir A. Duncan: No instructions have yet been issued to the Board, but I hope that the personnel of the Board will be such as to give complete confidence that all these factors will be kept well in mind.
    Mr. Walkden: And the right hon. Gentleman will tell them that delay is dangerous?
    Sir A. Duncan: Certainly.

    WASTE (ROYAL ORDNANCE FACTORIES).
    Mr. Tinkerasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that much disquiet is prevailing in the minds of the workmen of certain Royal Ordnance Factories at what they believe to be excessive waste of material; and will he consider allowing either workers or their representatives to go round with one of his officials to point out to them where such waste is taking place, as this would prove or disprove the allegations?
    Sir A. Duncan: The hon. Member has been good enough to furnish me with particulars of the case he has in mind, and I will communicate with him as soon as my inquiries are complete.

  FOOD SUPPLIES.

    SPECULATION.
    Mr. Lyonsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food what steps were taken on the representations
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    made over a year ago by the North Midland Shop Traders' Federation against the profiteering by several middlemen in respect of the sale of foodstuffs and the need for the licensing of dealers?
    The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Major Lloyd George):In the course of its administration, the Ministry of Food is continually regulating by Order and Direction the prices and distribution of foodstuffs. In the year ending 4th April, 1941, 324 Statutory Orders were made with this object. These Orders cover all essential, and most other, important foodstuffs. Where the price of a commodity is controlled by Order, profiteering becomes a criminal offence. In the case of all commodities owned by the Ministry, distribution is carried out through approved wholesalers and other recognised distributors. In the case of other commodities I fully recognise that existing traders would, speaking generally, favour a system of licensing which would restrict distribution to firms already in business. My Noble Friend is not, however, satisfied that it is desirable in the national interest to make this restriction universal, although as control is extended the licensing or selection of distributors becomes more complete.
    Mr. Lyons: In view of the statement that my hon. and gallant Friend made a week ago, that he had not heard of this matter a long time since, will he now alter that statement and say that this matter was brought forward by this body over a year ago to stop the profiteering of which the Minister now complains?
    Major Lloyd George: I have no recollection of saying what the hon. and learned Gentleman says I said.
    Mr. Lyonsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether it was by his instructions that a statement to the effect that inquiry into profiteering in tinned soup had been completed by the Ministry of Food was issued coincidentally with the report of the Food Price Investigation Committee, North Midland Region; whether that investigation was to the knowledge and with the co-operation of the same committee; and whether this report is to be made public?
    Major Lloyd George: The Press notice issued on 1st May was issued on the

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    instructions given by my Noble Friend. The investigation referred to in the notice was conducted by officials of the Ministry based on information received by the Ministry from a member of the public. As information which was found to relate to the same transactions was received from the North Midland Price Investigation Committee some days after the investigation had started, a copy of the report was, as a matter of courtesy sent to that Committee. It is not proposed to publish the report on the investigation which was conducted in order to ascertain whether there had been any infringement of the Food (Current Prices) Order. In so far as the report disclosed prima facie infringements, the matter is sub judice, and in so far as the transactions took place prior to the Order—which was made with the express object of stopping speculators' transactions coming into operation—no useful purpose would be served by its publication. My hon. and learned Friend will remember that such investigations can only be made because of the emergency powers granted to Government Departments to compel traders to produce their records. While it is proper to use information thus obtained in legal proceedings, it is clearly against public policy that it should be used to create prejudice against any section of the community.
    Mr. Lyons:Is it not the fact that the matters which were brought to light by the North Midland Committee some two weeks ago were investigated by them at the instigation of certain citizens of Nottingham who had written to the hon. and gallant Gentleman telling him that the statement with which he was supplied to contradict me was quite inaccurate?
    Major Lloyd George:The Question of the hon. and learned Gentleman refers specifically to allegations regarding tinned soup, and the information which I have given in the Answer to this Question is the correct information, that this investigation was in progress nine days at least before similar allegations from the investigation committee were received.
    Mr, Lyons:Can my hon. and gallant Friend say how it was that this matter was taken up by the North Midland Committee while the Ministry of Food was supposed to be dealing with it?
    Mr. Shinwell:If allegations about profiteering are found subsequently to be substantiated, is it not desirable in the public interest that the report should be presented to this House?
    Major Lloyd George:No, Sir; we act on information after investigation has taken place, and surely it is not in the interests of justice that such information should be given before these proceedings have been taken.
    Mr. Shinwell: My hon. and gallant Friend misunderstands me. If the allegations have been substantiated or disproved, as the case may be, is it not desirable that the report should be made public?
    Major Lloyd George:No, Sir, because as a result of the report being received we may or may not take action in the courts, and therefore, surely, it would be most undesirable that publication should be given of facts before the people implicated in the case appear before the court.
    Sir P. Hurdasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he can make a further statement about the profiteering in live chickens; and what steps the Ministry are taking?
    Major Lloyd George:Information has reached me that in order to avoid the provisions of the Poultry (Maximum Prices) Order, purchasers at certain auction marts, when buying live chickens for killing for food, are giving written declarations that the birds are bought for breeding, laying and rearing. Cases are now under investigation with a view to legal action.

    VEGETABLES (PRICES).
    Mr. Parkerasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food when he proposes to fix reasonable prices for spring onions, lettuces and tinned carrots?
    Major Lloyd George:My noble Friend does not see any need at present to control the prices of those fruits and vegetables of which ample supplies may be expected. The price of canned carrots is controlled by the Canned Vegetables (Maximum Prices) Order, 1941, which came into force on 5th May last.
    Mr. Mathers:Does that Answer cover home tomatoes, which are costing is. for a two-ounce tomato?

    BIRDSEED.
    Mr. Cecil Wilsonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the,Ministry of Food whether he is aware that some hundreds of birds have been slaughtered owing to the shortage of bird seed, and that the importation of a quota would prevent the destruction of the most valuable birds; and whether he can arrange for something being done towards obviating further slaughter?
    Major Lloyd George:I would refer my hon. Friend to the Reply given to the hon. and learned Member for Greenock (Mr. R. Gibson) on 18th March. I am sending him a copy of the Press notice referred to in that Reply.

    HORSEFLESH.
    Mr. Sorensenasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he has any information respecting the sale of horseflesh for human consumption; and what restrictions exist for the prevention, control or restriction of the sale of horseflesh for this purpose?
    Major Lloyd George:I have no information which suggests that there is any appreciable demand for horseflesh for human consumption, the sale of which is covered by the Food and Drugs Act, 1938. Apart from the general provisions of the Food and Drugs Act, 1938, for the protection of purchasers, special provisions to be. observed in connection with the sale of horseflesh for human consumption are contained in Section 38 of that Act, of which I am sending my hon. Friend a summary.
    Mr. Sorensen:Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that statements have been made that a good deal of horseflesh is now being consumed, in disguise with other foodstuffs, and will he not insist that wherever foodstuffs do contain horseflesh, this fact is stated to the public, together with the amount of the percentage of horseflesh?
    Major Lloyd George: I think the hon. Gentleman will see that that is contained in Section 38 of the Act. There is no objection to anyone eating horseflesh if he wants to do so, but he must be aware of it. The Act makes that perfectly clear.
    Sir Ralph Glyn:Would my hon. and gallant Friend, in consultation with the
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    Ministry of Agriculture, take steps to see that the present method of slaughtering horses for human consumption is supervised and inquired into?
    Major Lloyd George: Yes, Sir.
    Mr. Benson:Does not the Parliamentary Secretary think that if we eat horseflesh without knowing it, we shall enjoy it more?

    RACEHORSES (OAT RATION).
    Mr. Stokesasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether in view of the fact that the 2,500 horses in training for racing consume oats sufficient to keep 7,500 cows or 1,000,000 hens, and as cattle and poultry are being slaughtered for want of food, he will halve the racehorses' ration of oats?
    Major Lloyd George:I would refer to the reply given to my hon. Friend by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department on 3rd April.
    Mr. Stokes:Does the Parliamentary Secretary consider it reasonable to ask people to slaughter their livestock while racing is still allowed to continue?
    Major Lloyd George:As the hon. Gentleman knows, there has been a great reduction of the number of horses in training. The decision as to whether training should continue is not a matter for me.
    Mr. Stokes:Can the Parliamentary Secretary tell me the number of horses in training?
    Major Lloyd George:About 2,300. The hon. Gentleman's figures are wrong as to the number of hens.
    Mr. de Rothschild:Is it not a fact that frequent race meetings are held at the present time in Germany, Italy, Belgium, and France, and that one cannot feed hens on the same food as horses, because it would be just as unprofitable as to feed human beings on the same food as fly catchers?
    Mr. Stokes:If my figures for the number of hens are incorrect, does the Parliamentary Secretary's calculation show the figure to be higher or less than 1,000,000?
    Major Lloyd George:The actual figure is less than one-tenth.

    CONTROL COMMITTEES.
    Mr. Leslieasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether consideration will be given to the advisability of allowing shop assistants employed in the food trades to be members of the local food control committees, where their practical experience would be of value?
    Major Lloyd George: Of the 15 members of a food control committee five are known as trade members. Shop assistants as well as employers are eligible for any of these five appointments.
    Mr. Leslie: Are they eligible for the local food control committee?
    Major Lloyd George: Yes, Sir, for five appointments of the 15.

    EMERGENCY FIELD OVENS.
    Mr. Lindsayasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that emergency field ovens can be speedily built at no cost out of bricks and rubble; that many ex-service men now in the Home Guard and the Civil Defence services have experience in their construction; that thousands of meals could be cooked and kept warm by this method in the bombed areas, where there is shortage of equipment; and will he take immediate action to make this known to local authorities?
    Major Lloyd George: Yes, Sir.

    EMERGENCY FEEDING CENTRES.
    Mr. Lindsayasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food in how many areas there is a responsible and experienced person appointed to take charge of all emergency feeding arrangements?
    Major Lloyd George: The responsibility for the provision of emergency feeding centres, as distinct from the rest centres administered by public assistance authorities, has been entrusted to local authorities in certain areas. The Ministry of Food provides all equipment and food and reimburses all approved operating deficiencies. I am advised that in practically all areas the local authority has appointed a competent person to take charge of the local arrangements.
    Mr. Lindsay: While I appreciate that the Ministry of Food have in all cases got food to the spot, there are many places
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    where no one is yet appointed. Has the Parliamentary Secretary powers to see that there is such an appointment?
    Major Lloyd George: We have written to local authorities asking them to forward to us the names of officers who have been appointed in each area.
    Mr. Lindsay: Has the Ministry power, where the local authority is not acting, to see that a proper person is appointed?
    Major Lloyd George: I should want notice of that question.

  BRITISH ARMY.

    EDUCATION CORPS (PROMOTION).
    Mr. Lipsonasked the Secretary of State for War what are the regulations for promotions in the Army Education Corps; and how they compare with those that apply to other branches of the Service?
    The Financial Secretary to the War Office (Mr. Richard Law): As the answer contains a great deal of detailed information, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
    Mr. Lipson: As it is said that an officer of the Army Education Corps has to wait 20 years for his substantive promotion, will my hon. Friend put them in line with other parts of the Service, as it is suggested that the work they are doing is of great importance?
    Mr. Law: I think my hon. Friend had better study the answer in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
    Following is the statement:
    The rules governing substantive promotion of Army Education Corps officers are as follow:
    (a) Officers serving in the Army Education Corps on 3rd February, 1939.
    (b) Officers appointed to the Army Education Corps after 3rd February, 1939.
    As for officers appointed before 3rd February, 1939, up to the rank of captain. Above that rank promotion is by selection from officers of the next lower rank to fill vacancies in establishments.
    Above the rank of major, substantive promotions both in the Army Education Corps and the combatant arms is by selection from officers of the next lower rank to fill vacancies in the establishment. Substantive promotion of officers in war-time is, however, confined to those holding regular commissions. Apart from regular officers, war-time promotions in the Army Education Corps are to acting and war substantive rank, as in other branches of the Service, and are made to fill vacancies in the war establishment. The rules governing promotion in war of other ranks in the Army Education Corps are the same as for other corps.

    LEAVE (ACTIVE SERVICE EQUIPMENT).
    Mr. Tinkerasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the fact of soldiers having to carry full active service equipment when travelling on the railways, and that this causes them discomfort; and will he consider some scheme by which this could be remedied when railway journeys are undertaken?
    Mr. Law: My hon. Friend will appreciate that active operations in this country may develop at very short notice. Soldiers who are absent from their units on leave or for other reasons may be prevented from rejoining them in such circumstances, and may have to join units operating locally. It has therefore been decided that all soldiers who are absent from their units for more than 48 hours must travel with full active service equipment.
    Mr. Tinker:As it is a great hardship for soldiers going on leave to carry the
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    burdens they have to carry in crowded railway carriages, is there not some other method that could be adopted to make things a little easier for them?
    Mr. Law:I can see that there are certain definite inconveniences to the soldier, but I think they would be greater if he had to face the Germans without arms.
    Sir Percy Harris:Seeing that many soldiers have to stand up in corridors, where there is no sitting accommodation, cannot arrangements be made for their equipment to be carried in the luggage van?

    REQUISITIONED PROPERTY (COMPENSATION).
    Commander Sir Archibald Southbyasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in the case of business premises compulsorily requisitioned by the War Office, such compensation is paid as will fully cover the amount of rent for the premises for which the dispossessed occupier may be liable under an existing agreement from which he is unable to escape; or whether the rent compensation paid is an arbitrarily fixed sum which does not cover the liabilities of the dispossessed occupier?
    Mr. Law: My hon. and gallant Friend is under a misapprehension if he supposes that the sum payable by way of compensation in cases of this kind is arbitrarily fixed by the War Department. The amount is determined by the Compensation (Defence) Act, 1939, and the War Department has no power to go beyond its provisions. Under the. provisions of that Act, compensation in respect of requisitioned property must be, assessed by reference to the rent which might reasonably be expected to be payable by a tenant under a lease granted at the time when the property is taken over.
    Sir A. Southby:Will my hon. Friend appreciate the case I brought to his notice where the War Department requisitioned premises from an individual who has to pay £250 rent while receiving only £100 from the War Department? As his means of livelihood have been taken away, will my hon. Friend say how the individual concerned will find the other £150?
    Mr. Law:The rent payable by the War Office, under the Act, can only be what the premises are worth at the time. In a great many cases it is the unfortunate fact that the value of the premises has

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    deteriorated between the time that the original lease was taken up and the time the War Department took over. We are bound by the Act and cannot do any more.
    Sir William Davison: Is it not desirable that some change in the law should be made? It was my experience recently that an educational trust with which I am associated had to pay £20 or £30 a year more rent in respect of requisitioned premises than they receive from the War Office who requisitioned the premises.
    Sir A. Southby: Does my hon. Friend mean that when the War Office requisition premises from an individual, they will pay less in rent than the individual himself is already bound to pay? If so, that is a most unfair and unjust decision.
    Mr. Law:The War Office has power to pay only what the premises are worth at the time, and if there is any unfairness or injustice, it is not on the part of the War Office but on the part of the House of Commons in passing the Act.
    Sir W. Davison: Will my hon. Friend have the whole matter looked into? In the experience of many of us, great hardship is being caused through people having to pay the balance of rent which they are not receiving. The House would, 1 am sure, pass a one-Clause Bill in a short time to remedy the position.
    Sir I. Albery:Will the Lord Privy Seal assure the House that this matter will receive attention?
    Mr. Attlee: Certainly, Sir.
    Sir A. Southby: Will it receive early attention?
    Mr. Attlee: Certainly, Sir.

  LOCAL AUTHORITIES (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE).
  Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that some small local authorities are apprehensive of their future financial position relative to the General Exchequer Contribution; and whether he will accept the principle that capitation sums set aside out of county council apportionments shall be based upon the Registrar-General's mid-1939 Population Estimates as likely to show more fairly the probable permanent population movement?
  The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsburgh): The war has resulted in such a displacement of population that for this reason alone the recalculation of block grants which would normally have been undertaken this year is out of the question. My right hon. Friend has under consideration the introduction of legislation to secure that, during the war, every local authority will continue to receive the same grant as it is receiving this year. All the associations of local authorities in England and Wales agree to this course.
  Mr. Sorensen: Will the hon. Lady bear in mind the desire on the part of at least some of the small local authorities that the mid-1939 Population Estimates should be made the population standards for the future in this respect?
  Miss Horsbrugh: They would not be the population standards necessarily for this year or for next year, with the displacement of population.

  WAR DAMAGE ACT.
  Sir I. Alberyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, in cases where war damage has already been suffered, whether the insurance premiums, both for house property and chattels, will be debited against the claim, or whether the claimant has to provide premiums in cash in addition to the financial loss, direct and indirect, already incurred?
  The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Captain Crookshank): I will deal separately with the contribution in respect of house property and the insurance premium in respect of chattels. Under Section 33 of the War Damage Act, 1941, any instalment of contribution falling due in respect of a house which has suffered war damage will be allowed to stand over so long as the Inland Revenue are satisfied that the house is unfit for occupation. A claim to defer payment on this ground should be made when the notice of assessment is received. In cases where a "cost of works payment '' is appropriate the instalment will not become payable until the house has been made fit for occupation. If the Inland Revenue are notified by the War Damage Commission that a "value payment" and not a "cost of works payment" is likely to be made, collection of

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  instalments of contribution will be suspended unless and until the notice is revoked, and if a value payment is eventually made, the amount of that payment will be reduced by so much of the instalments as has not been paid. With regard to the insurance schemes under Part II of the Act, I understand that where war damage has been sustained before 17th April, 1941 (in the case of the business scheme),and before 1st May, 1941 (in the case of the private chattels scheme), the dates of coming into operation of these schemes, an amount in respect of premium will be deductible from the compensation allowance.
  Sir I. Albery:Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that in some cases, with reference to chattels, the insurance companies are collecting the premium?
  Captain Crookshank:I am not aware of anything further than what I have stated. Perhaps I may take this opportunity of expressing my sympathy with my hon. Friend for having twice been a victim himself.

  MILITARY SERVICE (OLDER MEN).
  Sir T. Mooreasked the Minister of Labour whether he will consider altering the calling-up ages for the Army so that they shall scale downwards from, say, the age of 55, instead of scaling upwards, in order that the Army shall consist fairly of age and youth?
  The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Tomlinson):In addition to men called up under the National Service Acts the Army has been receiving volunteers up to the age of 50 and in some cases 55. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War considers that the present arrangements allow for the enlistment of a sufficient number of older men.
  Sir T. Moore: Surely, it is not the policy of the Government, as in 1914, to risk the loss of the very generation which we shall so urgently want at the end of the war for reconstruction? Why should not the Services take us, the 55's, and downwards, since it is far better to lose us, who are not much good?
  Mr. Tomlinson:While I cannot agree with the latter remark, I will put the
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  matter, at least as to the first part of the Supplementary Question, back to the Department.

  BILLS PRESENTED.
  RATING (WAR DAMAGE) (SCOTLAND) BILL,
  "to enable rating authorities in Scotland to grant relief from rates in respect of lands and heritages suffering war damage;" presented by Mr. T. Johnston, supported by the Lord Advocate, the Solicitor-General for Scotland, Mr. Wedderburn, and Mr. Westwood; to be read a Second time upon the next Sitting Day, and to be printed. [Bill 28.]
  FIRE SERVICES (EMERGENCY PROVISIONS)BILL,
  "to provide for the reorganisation and improvement of the fire services of Great Britain/ and for purposes connected with the matters aforesaid;" presented by Mr. Herbert Morrison, supported by Mr. T. Johnston, Mr. Mabane, and Mr. West-wood; to be read a Second time upon the next Sitting Day, and to be printed. [Bill 29.]
  LANDLORD AND TENANT (WAR DAMAGE) (AMENDMENT) BILL,
  "to amend the Landlord and Tenant (War Damage) Act, 1939;" presented by the Attorney-General, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Mr. Ernest Brown; to be read a Second time upon the next Sitting Day, and to be printed. [Bill 30.]

Preamble
[Mr. SPEAKER in the Chair.]
ORDERS OF THE DAY.

  SUPPLY.
  [SIXTH ALLOTTED DAY.]
  Considered in Committee. [Sir DENNIS HERBERT in the Chair.]
  CIVIL ESTIMATES, 1941.
  UNCLASSIFIED SERVICES.
  MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC WARFARE.
  Motion made, and Question proposed,
  "That a sum, not exceeding £90, be granted to His Majesty, to complete the sum necessary to defray the charge which will come in course of payment during the year ending on the 31st day of March, 1942, for the salaries and expenses of the Ministry of Economic Warfare." [Note.— £10 has been voted on account.]
  Motion made, and Question, "That the Chairman do report Progress and ask leave to sit again," put, and agreed to.— [Major Dugdale.]
  Committee report Progress; to sit again upon the next Sitting Day.

  SECRET SESSION.
  Notice taken, that Strangers were present.
  Whereupon Mr. SPEAKER, pursuant to Standing Order No. 89, put the Question, " That Strangers be ordered to withdraw."
  Question agreed to.
  Strangers withdrew accordingly.
  [The remainder of the Sitting was in Secret Session..]