asked the Minister of Labour whether he will give special consideration to the case of small holdings and small businesses allied to agriculture, especially when the occupier is old or incapacited and has been relying on help which is now in process of being called up for the Services?

Yes, Sir; where the retention of the employee is in the national interest calling up is deferred; even though deferment may not be granted, the employee has the statutory right to apply for postponement on grounds of exceptional hardship. Postponement is granted when the applicant shows that the business cannot be carried on in his absence and that time is required to make alternative arrangements to enable it to be carried on.