§ 112. Mr. W. GRAHAMasked the Secretary of State for War if he will give details as to the present position of men transferred from the forces to agricultural work; whether he is aware that in many cases the remuneration offered is inadequate for the maintenance of the men, their wives, and families; whether steps can be taken to secure the demobilisation of these men or improvement in the conditions under which they are employed; and whether, if their services are retained, separation allowances will be issued to enable their homes to be maintained in reasonable comfort having regard to the present cost of living?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThose men who are eligible for demobilisation under Army Order 55 are being demobilised as rapidly as possible and a great number have already been released. Those still serving are receiving in all cases the full agricultural wage as fixed by the Wages Board, with a slight addition from Army funds. Any representations on the subject of the adequacy of such wages should be addressed to my Noble Friend the President of the Board of Agriculture. I regret that I cannot agree to the issue of separation allowance to those living in their own houses.