§ Sir W. Edgeasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that skilled tractor-drivers are urgently needed by farmers; whether any of these key men have been called up; and, if so, whether some of them at least can be liberated for a few weeks to co-operate in the ploughing up of grassland?
§ Mr. E. BrownI am aware of the need to which my hon. Friend refers. Agricultural tractor-drivers who were Reservists or members of the Territorial Army were no doubt called up upon mobilisation and the question of the temporary release of530W such men is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War. Agricultural workers registered under the Military Training Act have not yet been called up with the exception of a few cases in which individuals have asked to be called up.