§ 25. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent there is a shortage of skilled labour for agriculture in Scotland; how many skilled agricultural workers are still in the forces; and what steps he will take to secure the release of these men for work on the land.
§ Mr. WoodburnAt present there is no general shortage of skilled agricultural labour in Scotland. As regards the second part of the Question my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and 1773 National Service has said that the information required is not readily available but that no experienced farmworkers have been called up since February, 1946. Those who were called up before that date have already been offered release in Class B.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that there is general disagreement in farming circles in Ayrshire with the statement that there is plenty of skilled agricultural labour? That is general throughout Scotland. Will he impress on the Minister of Labour the necessity for some clear indication of the position in Scotland?
§ Mr. WoodburnIf the hon. Gentleman and his friends will communicate with me, we will see what can be done from our end of it in St. Andrew's House.
§ Mr. MaclayWill the right hon. Gentleman's reply apply after all the German prisoners of war have gone from Scotland?
§ Mr. WoodburnI am assured that, as far as we can see, the position will be satisfactory.
§ Mr. Hector HughesIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a shortage of labour in other fields of production in Scotland, and will he do something to secure the release of potential workers so that they can take part in the production drive?
§ Mr. WoodburnThere are shortages in all kinds of industries.
§ Major Guy LloydWould the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the best action which can be taken by His Majesty's Government and himself is to provide houses for agricultural labourers?
§ Mr. WoodburnYes, Sir, we agree that that is a very wise suggestion.