§ Captain Pluggeasked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the number of men engaged in factories processing milk; and whether any of these men are regarded as key employés and entitled to exemption from Army service?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe number of men engaged in factories processing milk is estimated to be about 10,000. All men of and over the age of 30 (other than labourers) engaged in productive processes in milk and condensed milk processing are reserved under the schedule of reserved occupations.
§ Sir E. Makinsasked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that expert cheese makers have to undergo a minimum three-years' course of instruction, and then need additional years of practical experience, he will consider lowering the age of reservation of such key men in the industry.
§ Mr. BrownI would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to my reply on 14th March to a Question on this subject by my hon. Friend the Member for Stourbridge (Mr. R. Morgan).