§ 65. Mr. W. R. SMITHasked the Minister of Labour if he can give a Return showing the number of land workers or agricultural labourers at present drawing unemployment benefit, and as to which areas that are affected in this respect?
§ Mr. WARDLEThe number of workers in agricultural occupations drawing unemployment benefit on 14th March was 9,037. Of these 1,473 were civilian men, 2,248 civilian women, 354 juveniles, and 4,962 demobilised members of His Majesty's Forces. Nearly 40 per cent. of the policies are lodged in Ireland, 15 per cent. in the London and South-Eastern divisions, and 10 per cent. in each of the following divisions — South Midlands, and Eastern, West Midlands.
§ Mr. LAMBERTHave any attempts been made by the Ministry to place these men in agricultural employment?
§ Mr. WARDLECertainly.
§ Mr. LAMBERTWhy is it when agriculture is crying out for labour that these men cannot be placed?
§ Mr. WARDLEIt is impossible to put everybody into employment, even in agriculture, all in a moment.