HC Deb 26 June 1940 vol 362 c461W
Mr. W. Roberts

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that the age of reservation for shepherds remains at 21; and whether he will consider, with the Minister of Labour, the reduction of the age to 18, as in the case of some other classes of farm, workers, in view of the urgent importance of retaining shepherds on hill farms?

Mr. Hudson

Although the importance of shepherds on hill farms is fully recognised, the Government do not consider that from the point of view of the country as a whole a reduction in the age of reservation for shepherds would be justified. Application can be made for deferment of calling-up where necessary.