HC Deb 15 July 1941 vol 373 cc439-40
34. Sir T. Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will consider creating central hostels in Scotland where girls of the Land Army can be accommodated under suitable supervision; and whether their physical and moral well-being can be guaranteed?

Mr. Johnston

Some hostels have already been established for members of the Women's Land Army and others are in contemplation. Their establishment is only contemplated when no suitable accommodation on farms is otherwise available. I have no reason to suppose that the accommodation provided on or near farms is generally unsatisfactory but I am making inquiries about certain specific cases which my hon. and gallant Friend has sent me, and I will communicate with him on the subject as soon as possible

Sir T. Moore

Will my right hon. Friend at the same time consider instructing those responsible for these girls in the many parts of Scotland where there is no adequate provision, that this is a matter which really concerns every mother in Scotland?

Mr. Johnston

Yes. Sir, most certainly; but as the hon. and gallant Member knows, we have made every provision at the centre for protection of that kind, and I will readily have inquiries made into alleged breaches of the instruction.

39. Sir T. Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what arrangements are in force for ensuring that applicants for the Land Army are physically fit for the duties they are called on to perform?

Mr. Johnston

Applicants for enlistment in the Women's Land Army are required to produce medical certificates to the effect that they are in good health and suffering from no disability likely to unfit them for work on the land.

Sir T. Moore

Will my right hon. Friend make further inquiries? What he says may be true, but it is not carried out in practice, as there is no demand for an examination or a medical certificate. Is there any logical reason why recruits for the Regular Army should go through an examination, whereas those for the Land Army are taken irrespective of whether or not they are in any way fit for the work?

Mr. Johnston

All I can say is that instructions to that effect were given, and if my hon. and gallant Friend will give me particulars of any case where the instructions are not being enforced, I will certainly look into the matter.

Viscountess Astor

Is it not the case that sometimes those who are unfit are passed and those who are fit are not passed?

Mr. Johnston

That may be so, but it is not the Question on the Paper.