§ 33. Sir John Mellorasked the Minister of Agriculture the number of applications for enrolment in the Women's Land Army up to the latest convenient date, in the mobile category and in the local category, respectively, and the number enrolled in each category; and whether, in view of the importance of the service rendered by land-girls between 1914 and 1918, he will take steps to provide, free of charge, preliminary training in peace time for suitable applicants?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithUp to 23rd March, 5,869 applications for enrolment in the Women's Land Army had been received, and 2,843 and 2,090 women had been enrolled in the mobile and local categories respectively, making a total of 4,933. After careful consideration, it is not proposed, at present, to provide official courses of training in peace time for members of the Women's Land Army.
§ Sir J. MellorIn view of the statement made by my right hon. Friend that he 1700 would consider this matter in the light of the response made to the National Service appeal, will he say how many will have to be enrolled before the Government will be prepared to take action in this matter?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithThe hon. Member refers to training?
§ Sir J. MellorYes, Sir.
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithThe position is that most of these women can get away for only a fortnight at a time, and I think it will be agreed that it would be difficult for them in a fortnight to learn all about the ways of farmers.
Brigadier-General BrownIf they could come for six months a great many farmers would be willing to give them their food and lodging if the Government would arrange to pay them.
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithAs I have said, these matters are under review, and I have stated the position we have arrived at.
§ Mr. MacquistenDoes the Minister not realise that a girl can be taught to milk in an afternoon?