§ 12. Mr. Turtonasked the Minister of Labour what further men it is his intention to call up from the occupations ancillary to agriculture before the end of this year.
§ Mr. IsaacsIt is proposed to continue to call up young men from forestry, horticulture, and the subsidiary agricultural occupations soon after they reach 18 years of age. It is expected that as a result 5,000 men will join the Armed Forces in 1946.
§ Mr. TurtonWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the effect on food production by calling up men from these ancillary occupations, who in many cases are as vital as those engaged in agriculture?
§ Mr. IsaacsGreat care will be taken in calling up these men, and everything possible will be done to avoid taking away men who will ensure production of food.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartHow many of these men will come from horticulture?
§ Mr. IsaacsI could not say what the allocation will be, but. If the hon. Member puts down a Question on the subject, I will endeavour to obtain the information.
§ Major Legge-BourkeDoes not the right hon. Gentleman agree that horticulture is as important as agriculture?
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is a matter of opinion and not a question.