§ 53. Mr. Edgar Granvilleasked the Minister of Agriculture whether the leaders of the W.L.A. were consulted by him before the decision was reached not to include members of the W.L.A. in the scheme for service gratuities and business grants.
Mr. HudsonYes, Sir. The Government was aware of and duly considered the views of the chief administrative officers of the Women's Land Army on this subject.
§ Mr. GranvilleDoes that answer mean that the Director-General, Lady Denman, was consulted before her resignation?
§ Mr. StephenMay I ask the Minister to speak a little louder?
§ Dr. Edith SummerskillAt what date was the claim first made for a gratuity for women in the Land Army?
§ Dr. SummerskillWhy is it improper to tell me the truth?
Mr. HudsonBecause it is not usual for Ministers to disclose in the House the date of the representations that they make.
§ Mr. GranvilleIn view of the fact that I could not hear the right hon. Gentleman's previous answer, may I ask if Lady Denman has been consulted since she resigned?
56. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the Government's decision to disallow gratuities to members of the W.L.A., the Government will consider the payment of a cash sum free of tax for each 12 months' service to enable members of the W.L.A. to purchase civilian clothing and generally re-establish themselves.
Mr. HudsonIf my hon. Friend will refer to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister, on 8th March, he will see that the Government's decision related to the extension of financial benefits in any form.
Mr. De la BèreIs my right hon. Friend aware that the question of fair play to the Women's Land Army cannot be lightly dismissed, and cannot be dismissed at all?
§ Mr. Evelyn WalkdenWere representations made at any time to provide these girls with a civilian outfit or cash allowance similar to members of the Fighting Services?
§ Mr. ButcherHave any uniformed Services been excluded other than the Land Army?