HC Deb 02 March 1944 vol 397 cc1578-9
52. Mr. Granville

asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps he is taking to encourage the formation of young farmers' clubs; and what assistance is being given by the war agricultural executive committees to those clubs already in existence.

Mr. Tom Williams

In consultation with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Education, my right hon. Friend has set up a joint Advisory Committee to secure the development of the Young Farmers' Club movement. Funds are being made available to provide for the appointment of at least one organiser of clubs in each county in England and Wales. My right hon. Friend has asked County War Agricultural Executive Committees to make available the services of members of their staff to the fullest possible extent, having regard to their duties in connection with the food production campaign.

Mr. Granville

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his answer, may I ask if he would suggest to the war agricultural executive committees that they should encourage agricultural workers to join these clubs on a co-operative basis in order to take part in technical discussions as to the future of agriculture?

Mr. Williams

As I happen to be the Chairman of the Advisory Committee, my hon. Friend can rest assured that we are endeavouring to recruit as many farm labourers' sons and daughters as possible.

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