§ 73. Mr. MOLTENOasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the situation which has arisen in regard to the production of food on the land owing to the farms being already unduly depleted of hands while notice of further depletion has been given to farmers after January and April in certain contingencies; whether, owing to the uncertainty so created, the farmers are unable to settle the crops they can grow and the vital time for wheat- sowing is now being lost; and whether he can arrange for an immediate announcement that no more men will be taken and that the farmers can rely upon every assistance being afforded them to help out their reduced complement of men with aid from men now in training for the Army?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI cannot make an announcement until figures which are now being collected have received more examination, but I am quite aware of the importance and urgency of the matter to which my hon. Friend, calls attention.