HC Deb 12 June 1939 vol 348 c884
30. Sir Percy Hurd

asked the Minister of Agriculture what progress has been made with the provision of training facilities for women on the land?

The Minister of Agriculture (Colonel Sir Reginald Dorman-Smith)

It is hoped that the first courses of training in tractor driving provided by the Ministry will commence early next month. On 2nd June my Department communicated with the local authorities for agricultural education as regards schemes of training in general agricultural subjects. Women's Land Army county committees have been set up and are arranging to interview women volunteers with a view to ascertaining their suitability and willingness to take advantage of training facilities, including short periods of training on farms during the summer holiday period. I should like to take this opportunity of appealing for the co-operation of farmers in the matter of training members of the Women's Land Army.

Sir P. Hurd

Is any age limit being set in regard to these women?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

I should like to have notice of that question.

Sir P. Hurd

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that an age limit is being set in some counties?

Mr. T. Williams

Are these ladies being trained to drive tractors in peace time or in a time of emergency?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

In a time of emergency.