HC Deb 26 February 1953 vol 511 cc2307-8
55. Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Minister of Labour why the period of National Service of Mr. J. MacAskill, 4, Edinbane, by Portree, Isle of Skye, cannot be deferred, since his father has been unwell for some time and unable to work the croft.

Sir W. Monckton

As my hon. Friend has already been informed by letter, Mr. MacAskill is not eligible for deferment as an agricultural worker. The Military Service Hardship Committee, after hearing him, refused his application for postponement of call-up on grounds of exceptional hardship. If, however, my hon. Friend has any further information he would like me to consider I should be glad to do so.

Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamilton

In view of the depopulation which is going on continuously in the Highlands, and considering that it is hard enough to get people to work on the land, will my right hon. and learned Friend agree that it is a very serious blow every time a man is called up and a croft cannot be worked?

Sir W. Monckton

I am fully aware of the point. I must not interfere with the decisions which were made by the Hardship Committee on this question of postponement, but I am prepared to put any further matter before them if my hon. Friend gives it to me.