HC Deb 11 July 1916 vol 84 cc190-2
21. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether any provision has been made in Scotland for the training of discharged soldiers in agricultural work; and whether any men are now being so trained

The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Munro)

A scheme for a training hostel in Easter Ross is under consideration, and two agricultural colleges have stated that they are prepared to offer facilities for the training of discharged soldiers; but the difficulty of residence has to be overcome. At present the West of Scotland College is giving instruction to a few discharged soldiers. The whole matter is engaging the attention of His Majesty's Government.

22. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether any and, if so, what arrangements have been made for the release of labour necessary for the completion of the sanatorium at Hallmyres at which it is proposed that disabled soldiers should be trained for agricultural work?

Mr. MUNRO

My right hon. Friend has been in communication with the local authority regarding this matter and has taken steps which give him reason to hope that additional labour may be obtained for the purpose mentioned by my hon. Friend.

Mr. SCOTT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is an institution which has offered to take a number of discharged soldiers for training in agricultural work?

Mr. MUNRO

Perhaps my hon. Friend is quite correct. I was not aware of that.

24. Mr. SCOTT

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture, if he will say what provision has been made for the training of disabled soldiers in agricultural work at the agricultural colleges or otherwise; and whether any men are now being so trained.

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Acland)

In October last the Board obtained the approval of the Treasury to a scheme for giving a free course of training at an agricultural college to fifty disabled sailors or soldiers. Applications were invited in the Press and through the various naval and military societies, but there have been very few applicants. Fifteen men have been or are now being trained at Holmes Chapel. I will send my hon. Friend a copy of a notice of the scheme which has been widely circulated amongst those likely to be concerned.

Mr. HOGGE

Why is not this in charge of a Sub-Committee of the Statutory Committee? Why, if the Committee can deal with discharged soldiers, should it refuse to deal with blind soldiers?

Mr. ACLAND

Before the Committee came into existence it was carried on by the same organisation.