§ 2. Major Anstruther-Grayasked the Minister of Labour how many deferments of call up have been granted and how 1384 many refused to agricultural workers in Scotland during the last three months.
§ Sir W. MoncktonSeven hundred and ninety-four and 47 respectively, of which 460 and 9 respectively relate to applications for the renewal of deferments.
§ Major Anstruther-GrayWhile thanking my right hon. and learned Friend for that broadly satisfactory reply, may I ask whether he will look again at those few refusals because I know that in more than one case in my constituency harm is being done to agricultural production?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI am always prepared to look at any specific case brought to my attention. I constantly try to do that in respect of applications which come from hon. Members on both sides of the House.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesIs the Minister aware that although these deferments have been granted to the end of the harvest we have to think of the next harvest, and farmers want to know how to fulfil the gigantic programme outlined by the Prime Minister when their men have been taken away?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI have always to reconcile those considerations—which I fully appreciate—and try to meet the requirement of trying to get everyone fairly treated for National Service.