50. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, with a view to getting a million acres drained and into cultivation forthwith, he will confer with the Secretary of State for War and the Minister of Labour, for the purpose of the provision of 10,000 Pioneer or other troops being made available for this work within the next month?
Mr. HudsonI have already consulted both my colleagues. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War is unable to place any additional Pioneers or other 1584 troops at my disposal beyond those already working, but my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service has agreed to make available within the next few months at least 10,000 civilians for work of this kind.
Mr. De la BèreDoes my right hon. Friend realise that the point is the un-awareness of the War Office and the Ministry of Labour as to the urgency of making provision for the national larder, and is he aware that the matter cannot be lightly dismissed, indeed, that it cannot be dismissed at all?
Mr. HudsonI would suggest to my hon. Friend that he should address his Question to my two colleagues.
§ Mr. GranvilleHas the right hon. Gentleman made representations to the Secretary of State for War for the release of skilled agricultural workers from home forces for work during important farming seasons, such as harvests?
Mr. HudsonWe are continually making applications to the Army authorities for the release of individual men, and, as far as I am aware, the bulk of them are granted.