§ Mr. CLYNESasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that Colonial agents are abroad in this country inducing men to emigrate with the object of taking the place of men involved in trade disputes, especially in the 418 case of miners in Nova Scotia; and whether he will frame any regulations to prevent emigration for such purposes or promise legislation on the subject?
Mr. HARCOURTMy attention has not previously been called to the matter. The existence of a strike at Spring Hill, Nova Scotia, has been mentioned in the Quarterly Circular on Canada published by the Emigrants' Information Office ever since the strike began in 1909, and in the current issue of the circular, dated 1st April, coal miners are warned to be cautious in going to these mines in search of work at the present time. I can promise no action to restrict the free movement of free people.
Sir GILBERT PARKERMay I ask why it is that emigrants are warned about going to those mines at present?
Mr. HARCOURTThey are warned of the facts which exist in the mines at the present moment. All emigrants or intending emigrants asking for information are given all the information which can be of use to them.
§ Mr. HARRY LAWSONIs not the information as to strikes of this kind always circulated through the Emigrants' Information Office?
§ Mr. CLYNESInasmuch as the right hon. Gentleman cannot promise legislation, may I ask whether he can do anything in the matter of regulation?