§ 19. Mr. P. Wellsasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is able to announce any change in the position of men registered, under the National Service Acts, in one of the agricultural occupations as regards eligibility for entry into university departments of agriculture and agriculture colleges.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsYes. Such men have hitherto been permitted only exceptionally to leave agricultural employment to take full-time courses, but any born in or before 1928 who are no longer liable for military service and can obtain places, will be free to enter universities and agricultural colleges next session for courses at the degree or diploma level. Applications from men with at least three years employment in agriculture at 31st August next since reaching the age of 18 will be given preference next session if they are accepted by the university or college concerned as fully up to the proper standard for admission. It is hoped that universities 211W and colleges will not normally accept applications from men wishing to take agricultural courses unless they have spent, by 31st August, 1947, at least two years in agricultural work since the age of 18, in view of the very heavy demand for places from men with longer periods of employment in the industry. Similar arrangements applicable to Scotland are being recommended by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland.