HC Deb 10 November 1947 vol 444 cc24-5
49. Air-Commodore Harvey

asked the Minister of Agriculture what is the strength of the Women's Land Army at the latest convenient date.

Mr. T. Williams

The enrolled strength of the Women's Land Army on 18th October last was 26,700.

Air-Commodore Harvey

How do these figures compare with those of, say, a year ago?

Mr. Williams

I am afraid I could not say without notice.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Would the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is an increase in recruiting generally? Is he satisfied with the intake?

Mr. Williams

I believe there has been an increase in recruiting this year compared with last year, but, of course, a large number of members of the Women's Land Army have completed the term for which they were recruited and are obviously returning to their homes.

Sir T. Moore

Could the right hon. Gentleman say what is the difference between "strength" and "enrolled strength"?

Mr. Speaker

That is a hypothetical question.