108. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that many farmers are in doubt whether, in view of the demand for men, they should put any land under the plough this year; and if he can issue any statement on behalf of the Scottish Board of Agriculture on the subject?
§ Mr. TENNANTAs my hon. Friend is aware, it has been arranged that, subject to any decision by the Man-Power Distribution Board, and subject to any revision which developments of the military situation and further information in regard 379 to the agricultural situation may demand, no more men from among those now employed in agriculture will until 1st January, 1917, and in the case of whole-time dairy workers on farms until 1st April, 1917, be called to the Colours, except in return for men released from the Colours for work at agriculture. In the meantime, the situation will be considered jointly by the Departments concerned, but the Government would regard it as a national misfortune if farmers should fail to plough up all the land possible.