MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEasked what was the number of emigration agents and sub-agents employed in Great Britain and Ireland by or on behalf of the Canadian Government at the present moment; and whether they are paid a fixed salary or by results?
Mr. HARCOURTI understand that there is no emigration agent or sub-agent employed in Great Britain and Ireland by or on behalf of the Canadian Government, except the following:—Mr. John McLennan, Liverpool; Mr. L. Burnett, York; Mr. Andrew O'Kelly, Birmingham; Mr. A. F. Jury, Exeter; Mr. M. McIntyre, Glasgow; Mr. W. D. Cumming, Aberdeen; Mr. E. O'Kelly, Dublin; Mr. J. Webster,. Belfast. All these officials are paid by a fixed salary, and not by results.
§ Mr. RAFFANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the most efficient agencies for recruiting for the colonies in this country are the Scottish landowners, who are clearing the land of men in order to make room for deer?
§ Mr. KEIR HARDIECan the Secretary for the Colonies say whether the unofficial agents are paid any commission on the emigrants whom they send out?
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEMay I ask if in view of the great exodus from rural districts he will do all he can to try to keep the people in this country instead of assisting these people to take them abroad?
§ Mr. KEIR HARDIEWould not the roost effective way to secure that object be to emigrate the landlords?
§ Mr. CLYNESDo these agents and subagents work under any printed instructions, and if so are they available for Members of this House?
Mr. HARCOURTThe agents have no connection with the Imperial Government. Whatever agents there are, are employed by the Canadian Government for their own purposes. I have no information on the subject. For the purpose of answering this question I have obtained the regulations from the Canadian Office.