HC Deb 16 April 1919 vol 114 cc2902-3
Mr. CAUTLEY

(by Private Notice) asked the Leader of the House whether he is aware that the withdrawal of the Agricultural Companies from the farms which is to take place before the House meets again is causing the gravest anxiety among farmers; that the present sowing, season is already delayed by weather, and the utmost possible supply of labour is necessary to ensure the land being sown; that these companies contain several thousand men of whom many are highly skilled agriculturists and it is impossible to replace them; and whether he cannot at once arrange that the withdrawal of these agricultural companies shall be postponed?

Mr. BONAR LAW

This subject was considered recently by the Cabinet, and the War Office arranged to carry out the withdrawal of these companies as slowly as is compatible with essential military requirements.

Mr. CAUTLEY

Would it be possible to postpone it for a month?

Mr. BONAR LAW

That was carefully considered, and it is obvious that we cannot keep men for this purpose undemobilised if they are not required for military reasons.