§ 50. Mr. W. Robertsasked the Minister of Agriculture whether the total number of men now released from the Army on agricultural grounds has yet reached the maximum agreed upon; and whether any more men are now to be released?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithA small balance remains of the total number of releases from the Army which can be granted on agricultural grounds, but the number of applications which have already been received and are still outstanding greatly exceeds this balance. Having regard to the needs of the Army, the Government are unable to grant any further releases on agricultural grounds after the present number has been exhausted, though various other ways in which the Army can help agricultural needs are being considered.
§ Mr. RobertsDoes that really mean that it is no use any farmer in any circumstances making an application to have a man released from the Army?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithYes, Sir.