HC Deb 02 February 1954 vol 523 c196
43. Mr. Carmichael

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what further arrangements he is making for potato harvesting this year, which will obviate the necessity of young children being taken from school for this class of work.

Mr. J. Stuart

Steps will be taken to ensure that the fullest use is made of all adult labour available. Nevertheless, the help of the older pupils will be needed if the Scottish potato crop is to be lifted.

Mr. Carmichael

The right hon. Gentleman indicated in the second part of his answer that he would use older pupils. According to all the statistics so far gathered, all the children come from the junior secondary schools and finish their education at 15 years of age. If the right hon. Gentleman accepts the principle of using older children, could he go to the fee-paying schools and the senior secondary schools, where the children usually attend school at least until they are 18 years of age?

Mr. Stuart

As the hon. Member knows, the children must be aged 13 or over, but I will gladly consider any suggestions.

Sir R. Boothby

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the desirability of finding an outlet for the potatoes when they have been collected?