§ 51. Mr. R. J. Taylorasked the Minister of Agriculture whether a non-agriculturist, who has entered on, or purchased, a farm since the outbreak of war, is to be excused military service, while efficient men actually doing the essential work of the farm are liable to be called for service?
Mr. HudsonNo, Sir, men who are not genuine agriculturists will not be permitted to evade military service by entering on, or purchasing, a farm. County war agricultural executive committees have been instructed to investigate and report on any cases of this sort which come to their notice. Where the facts warrant it the case will be referred to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service, so that he may take the necessary action.
§ Mr. Garro JonesHas any criterion ever been offered to the county war agricultural committees to guide them as to the test they should impose as to whether a man is a genuine agriculturist or not, and particularly whether his experience has been limited to the period since the outbreak of the war?
Mr. HudsonI think that can reasonably be left to the common sense of the war agricultural committees, which are composed of practical agriculturists.