HC Deb 17 March 1948 vol 448 cc2090-1
59. Mr. Shephard

asked the Secretary of State for Air what help is to be given by men serving in the R.A.F. to assist agriculture during the 1948 harvest.

Mr. de Freitas

Former farm workers and market gardeners who are serving in the United Kingdom or Germany will be allowed special leave. In addition to these skilled workers, as many airmen as we can spare will be made available to farmers, and our regional officers will work closely with the county agricultural committees to see that the best use is made of the Service transport and labour. Members of the R.A.F. will also be encouraged to help outside their working hours.

Mr. Shephard

If a farmer is requiring them, has he to apply through the agricultural executive committee, or direct to the commanding officer of the station?

Mr. de Freitas

I advise him to go to the county executive committee.