HC Deb 10 July 1917 vol 95 cc1730-1
44. Mr. ANDERSON

asked how many women have been found employment on the land by war agricultural committees and at what wages; what directions these committees give as to the provision of suitable housing for the women; and what sum is usually charged them for board and lodging?

Sir R. WINFREY

Five thousand two hundred and forty-three National Service Volunteers selected by the county women's war agricultural committees have been placed on farms or in instruction centres. Instructions have been issued that the National Service recruits are only to be placed with employers whose accommodation and general conditions have been approved by the county selection committee. The wage is never less than 18s., and up to the present has reached in some cases 27s. The billeting rate varies between 12s. and 15s.

Mr. G. LAMBERT

Are these 5,243 all women who have been found employment on the land?

Sir R. WINFREY

Yes, that is so; only those through the National Service. Of course, there are farmers who have made their own private arrangements.