HC Deb 16 May 1928 vol 217 cc1035-6
61. Mr. W. M. ADAMSON

asked the Minister of Agriculture the number of agricultural workers employed in the county area of Staffordshire in 1927: and the comparative numbers for the preceding five years?

Mr. GUINNESS

As the reply contains a number of figures, I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the first figure, and the last figure?

Mr. GUINNESS

It is really very awkward to deal with the figures, as there are about 50 different figures.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the constant reduction in the number of agricultural labourers employed, and that in various districts there are agricultural labourers who are unable to find work?

Mr. GUINNESS

I can tell the hon. Member that the regular workers have shown a steady increase in the last few years. The figures were: In 1925, 7,900; in 1926, 8,200; and in 1027, 8,200.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Will the right hon. Gentleman state how much of the increase is due to beet sugar factories that have been established and so forth?

Following are the figures: