§ 21. Mr. Fortasked the Minister of Labour how many agricultural labourers of call-up age have left farming to take up jobs in coal mining.
§ Mr. WatkinsonI regret that this information is not available.
§ Mr. FortIs my hon. Friend aware that this drift from an industry where no deferment is granted to one where deferment is granted is causing grave disturbance and unhappiness on the part of people who are trying to increase production? Will he use his powers of persuasion with the National Coal Board in urging them not to take agricultural workers who apply for jobs?
§ Mr. WatkinsonMy hon. Friend was kind enough to write to me about this, and I undertake to look into the whole question and perhaps get in touch with him again.