§ 63. Sir Percy Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture the present employed strength of the Women's Land Army?
§ Mr. T. WilliamsIt was 40,662 on 30th June, the net increase in employment for that month being the record figure of 4,419.
§ Sir P. HurdHow many more are required to fill the demand?
§ Mr. WilliamsAs many as we can possibly get.
§ 64. Sir P. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that, despite the official assurances given, members of the Women's Land Army are still being refused admission to the canteens of the Young Women's Christian Association and similar organisations?
§ Mr. WilliamsApproval in principle only has been given to the admission of members of the Women's Land Army to canteens operated for the Services by voluntary organisations. Before admission to individual canteens is granted, the Land Army is required to submit a detailed list of all canteens in England and Wales to which admission is desired with figures showing the number of volunteers employed in the vicinity and likely to use the canteen. The list has necessarily taken time to complete but has now been submitted.
§ Sir P. HurdWhat is the reason for this elaboration of officialism? Could not this matter have been simply and directly settled?
§ Mrs. TateWhy do the Ministry say on the one hand how much they value the work of the women in agriculture and, 1081 on the other hand, inevitably and always create disabilities for those engaged in such work?
§ Mr. WilliamsThe Ministry do value the work of the Women's Land Army and are not responsible for the decision of the Women's Services with regard to whether members of the Women's Land Army should go into their canteens or not. With regard to the first Supplementary Question, the time occupied before a decision is reached is due to the detailed information——
§ Mr. Williams—required by those responsible for making the decision.
§ Mr. BartlettWho is responsible?