HC Deb 09 May 1916 vol 82 cc443-4
28. Mr. G. LAMBERT

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the possibility of the enemy submarine menace, the requisitions of tonnage for military and allied purposes, and the shortage of home agricultural labour leading later on in the year to a food shortage crisis; and whether any steps are in contemplation to deal with such an emergency?

Mr. ACLAND

Yes, Sir, it was this and other relevant considerations which have led to the arrangement that indispensable and irreplaceable farm workers should be left on the land. I may in this connection refer my right hon. Friend to an answer given on behalf of the Prime Minister on this subject on the 22nd March, which has been widely circulated to members of local tribunals and others interested. The question of securing certain reserve stocks of wheat in this country has also been dealt with.