16 DECEMBER 1925
Lord Somers replied in the House of Lords for the Minister of Education to an attack by Earl De La Warr and other members on the proposals of Circular 1371. The Criminal Justice Bill passed report. Clause 40, which imposes penalties upon drunken motorists, being amended to provide for automatic disqualification from holding licence to drive for twelve months after conviction.
The Safeguarding of Industries (Customs Duties) Bill passed Committee stage in the House of Commons, and was reported without amendment. Several measures, including the Weights and Measures Amendment Bill, were withdrawn.
The Parliamentary Labour party has resolved that the services of every member should be fully utilised on the floor of the House of Commons in fighting the capitalistic policy of the Government and compelling it to produce constructive measures for coping with the problem of unemployment.
The decision of the Council of the League of Nations in the Mosul dispute will be formally announced to-day. It is understood that the Council has decided unanimously in favour of the Brussels Line as the frontier.
M. Loucheur, the French Minister of Finance, has resigned.
Evidence was given before the Coal Commission by the Duke of Northumberland; Mr J. J. M’Murdo, on behalf of the Scottish Mineral Owners’ Association; and Mr J. A. S. Millar, W.S., for the Scottish Mineral Owners’ Committee.
The Ministry of Labour have intervened in the railway shopmen’s dispute in England.
The bulk of the “A” division of the Ulster Special Constabulary are on strike. They have issued a list of demands, which includes £200 for each man, with the threat that if this is not conceded no arms, ammunition, equipment or barracks will be handed over.
Among the reasons given to the Food Council for the shortage in the wheat harvest, and the consequent rise in price, were disappointing harvests in Canada, Russia, Australia, and the Argentine, chiefly the last named.
The Prince of Wales, Princess Mary, and other members of the Royal Family were at the annual meeting in London of the League of Mercy. Bringing a message from Their Majesties, the King and Queen, the Prince of Wales paid a tribute to the year’s work, and dealt with the Empire aspect of the League’s activities.