§ 100. Mr. Harmar Nichollsasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that his estimate that harvest will be collected by 1st November does not apply to agricultural labour engaged on lifting sugar beet and potato crops; and if he will consider postponing the call-up of any eligible agricultural workers so engaged.
§ Mr. BevanAlthough the lifting of sugar beet is spread over several months, the postponement of the calling up of farm workers until after the end of October would cover the period of heaviest demand, especially for potato picking. I am afraid that any further postponement would not be practicable.
§ 102. Mr. Grimondasked the Minister of Labour when he hopes to be able to announce his plans for dealing with difficulties which may be caused on more remote farms and crofts owing to the decision to withdraw deferment from agricultural work.
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§ Mr. BevanTemporary deferment will be granted to men employed on farms with only one or two workers if call-up would lead to a substantial fall in food production. Detailed arrangements will shortly be discussed with the two sides of the industry.
§ 103. Mr. Fisherasked the Minister of Labour whether he will consider deferring the call-up of agricultural workers until December, in view of the fact that the late autumn is one of the busiest times of the year in the agricultural industry.
§ 104. Mr. N. Macphersonasked the Minister of Labour how many agricultural workers he estimates were born in the year 1933 and are to become liable to military service in the year from 3rd February; 1951.