Sue, Yes, very true. I can speak for Scotland anyway. Most of my family was exempt for that very reason. In fact, in one case I know of, my great great grandmother took the lease of a farm for her only remaining son (the other 2 had immigrated) to "keep him out of the war". On the other hand, agricultural workers could enlist if they desired & many did. My grandfather (shepherd) & his only brother (ship's pilot) both signed up. However, grandfather could not close one eye without the other. A minor defect, but you cannot fire a gun without this ability so he was refused. Probably saved his life though - great uncle died at Somme in 1916. Mary Fletcher Harris Canada > > Although not a reserve occupation, as in World War Two, agricultural > workers could gain an exemption from military service in the Great War.