HC Deb 18 April 1910 vol 16 cc1673-4
Mr. LARDNER

asked the Under-Secretary for the Colonies if he would inquire from the West Australian Government whether there is any official authority for the announcement that the West Australian Government are desirous of securing 200 female domestic servants to go to West Australia next month, and that the Premier has given an assurance that all applicants may rely on promptly securing situations at good wages upon landing?

Colonel SEELY

The Secretary of State learns from the Premier of Western Australia, Colonel Moore, who is now in this country, that there is an extreme dearth of domestic servants in that State, and that Colonel Moore is therefore prepared to give special facilities for the early departure of a large number. It is intended that a special party, up to 100, shall sail by the "Orsova" on the 27th May, and that a similar party shall follow by a later steamer. Only those selected and approved by the Agent-General will be sent.

As I have said the Premier states that there is an extreme dearth of domestic servants in Western Australia. I may add that the average rate, of wages is, roughly, as follows per week, with board and lodging:—

Cooks 30s.
General servants 12s. 6d. to 40s.
Housemaids 10s. to 20s.
Nursemaids 5s. to 30s.
Parlourmaids 10s. to 20s.

Mr. LARDNER

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he approves of the publication of advertisements that the Premier of West Australia has given a semi-official assurance when there is no foundation whatever for such statements?

Colonel SEELY

It is very right that a close watch should be kept on any advertisements of this kind, but, so far as I have been informed, no misstatement has been made. It is a fact that the Prime Minister of West Australia is interesting himself in the matter.

Mr. MacVEAGH

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether his attention has been called to the advertisement stating that "we have the assurance of the Premier of West Australia that all applicants may rely on getting quickly situations at good wages on landing," and whether the Premier has given that assurance?

Colonel SEELY

It depends to whom that notice applies. The Prime Minister of West Australia, I think, has given the assurance that these specially selected emigrants will receive situations, and I have no doubt that they will.