HC Deb 12 October 1944 vol 403 c1933
56. Commander Locker-Lampson

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the shortage of gardeners is grave; and whether he will consider using prisoners of war to help in gardens and teach them as soon as possible to look after bees and goats.

Mr. T. Williams

I am aware that there is a shortage of private gardeners, but all the prisoners of war at present available for agriculture are required for urgent work on farms, or for essential land drainage. It would not be in the national interest to divert such labour either to work in private gardens, or for training in the care of bees and goats.

Commander Locker-Lampson

Are there any German prisoners working on the land to-day in this country?

Mr. Williams

I believe so, but I am unable to give the exact number at the moment.

Commander Locker-Lampson

What is the good of capturing Germans, unless we use them?