THE LAST MAN.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LXXIV, Issue LXXIV, 26 October 1917, Page 8

THE LAST MAN.

PLEA FOR EXEMPTION IX BUSINESS.

Mr H. Poland asked the Minister of Defence in the House whether, in view of the instructions given to Military Service Boards regarding "th.c last man on the farm," the Government will give similar guarantees to business firms that their staffs will not be absolutely depleted of essential trained workers? He said that possibly about half of the population was dependent upon industries in the towns, and serious interference with this branch of the country's activities must prejudice the primary producers. Sir James Allen replied that the Military Service Boards had been informed of the Government's classification, of industries, trades, and professions as most essential, essential, partially essential, asd non-essential, and had , been asked to deal with the appeals of men. engaged therein in accordance with the recommendations prefacing each category. If the honorable member would refer to this classification as laid on the table of the House in July last, he would see that the boards had been specially recommended not to send into camp any appellant whose removal would imperil the successful maintenance of the industry or occupation in which he was engaged. In addition, a classification of the men in accordance with the importance of the position held by them in each industry and occupation had been prepared, and would be circulated for the information and guidance of the Military Service Boards, but they had been informed as to the policy of the Government both with regard to the farming industry and other essential industries.