Mr. H. Stewartasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the calling up of young ploughmen, and particularly the sons of widows and infirm farmers, has caused serious dislocation in farm work; that, in consequence, large numbers of horses are about to stand idle, and the cultivation of land and care of livestock to be impaired; that if these men leave the farms many 1441W undertakings to plough up fresh land will have to be cancelled, since no other suitable labour is available; and what steps he proposes to take?
§ Mr. ColvilleI would remind by hon. Friend that the Government have taken considerable steps to help farmers by including in the Schedule of Reserved Occupations agricultural workers of 21 years and over and by making substitute labour available. With regard to cases where personal hardship may be involved, I understand from my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour that the Hardship Tribunals are now in operation.