§ 12. Mr. WATTasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that farmers in Scotland found much greater difficulty in getting soldier help at their harvests than did farmers in England; that practically all the applications in 307 England were satisfactorily dealt with, whereas few of the demands of the Scottish farmers succeeded in getting the desired assistance; will he say why this was so; and whether any arrangements are being made this year by his Department whereby soldiers will be available in greater numbers in Scotland?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Forster)I have not seen any figures which bear out what is stated in the first part of the question, nor is there any record of complaints having been received to that effect. I do not think it is the case that all applications in England were met. I can, however, assure the hon. Member that the arrangements this year are the same for England and for Scotland, and a report has been received from the Scottish command which has been in communication with the Scottish Board of Agriculture, that the arrangements are considered satisfactory.
§ Mr. FORSTERI should hope so.