§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that, owing to the calling up of knackers, it is impossible to obtain a sufficient number of expert men to slaughter animals, with the result that horse-flesh is scarce and being wasted, while owners of animals, which would otherwise have been usefully slaughtered, are merely burying the carcases; and whether, in view of the importance of not wasting material, he will consider allowing a reasonable number of these men to be retained in civil life?
§ Mr. Bevin:There are already arrangements under which the deferment of individuals can be considered at the request of any of the Government Departments concerned.