HC Deb 04 March 1918 vol 103 c1697
34. Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture what arrangements are being made to supply the increased number of wheelwrights, shoeing-smiths, implement repairers, and harness makers necessary to ensure the proper harvesting of crops from the increased arable acreage?

Mr. PROTHERO

Arrangements are made with the Labour Priority Committee of the Ministry of National Service for the supply of skilled men of these classes for the purpose of dealing with the present season's cultivation and crops. Arrangements have been already made or are in progress for increasing the supply of rural handycraftsmen from interned aliens and prisoners of war.

Sir RYLAND ADKINS

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider the propriety of conferring with the Ministry of National Service as to further instructions being sent out to tribunals, in view of the increased need of such workmen at home, even when eligible for military service?

Mr. PROTHERO

I will make that representation.

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