§ Sir J. Mellorasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has considered, in consultation with the Minister of Labour, the terms of a resolution passed at the annual meeting of the Warwickshire branch of the National Farmers' Union, on 8th January, 1941, with reference to the anticipated effect upon the working of the increased arable acreage of any further calling up of skilled agricultural workers for service in the forces; and whether he will make a statement?
§ Mr. T. WilliamsThe question of the further recruitment of men for the armed forces from all industries—including agriculture—is still under consideration by the Government. My right hon. Friend is not, therefore, at present in a position to make a statement on the subject, but I can assure the hon. Member that the Government fully realises the importance of maintaining an adequate supply of experienced agricultural workers at a time when increased food production is of vital national importance.