86. Mr. Maitlandasked the Minister of Labour whether he will simplify the conditions under which agricultural workers may be deferred from National Service as set out in his Department's circular PL 341.
§ Sir W. MoncktonI have already simplified these conditions as announced in answer to Questions by the hon. Member for Norfolk, North (Mr. Gooch) and my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for 71W Norfolk, Central (Brigadier Medlicott) on 28th February last. Certain other points are still under consideration.
§ 89. Sir L. Ropnerasked the Minister of Labour how many agricultural workers from the West Riding of Yorkshire were called up for National Service during 1951.
§ Sir W. Monckton100, up to 31st December, 1951.
94. Mr. Watkinsasked the Minister of Labour how many farm workers have been called up in Wales at the last convenient date; how many applications for deferment under the new call-up arrangements have been received; how many have been rejected; and what periods of deferment have the others received.
§ Sir W. MoncktonUp to 29th February, 1952, 203 had been called up. Up to the same date 1,540 applications for deferment under the new arrangements were received, of which 59 have been rejected. Deferment has been granted in 1,046 cases, the periods being as follows:
435 cases were still under consideration at 29th February.
Up to 3 months 64 3 to 6 months 709 Over 6 months 273