HC Deb 18 March 1918 vol 104 cc653-4
51. Sir R. COOPER

asked the Prime Minister whether the distribution of leaflets by the Royal Colonial Institute among sailors and soldiers is done with the knowledge and consent of the Government; whether it is intended in these leaflets to give the sailors and soldiers to understand that each man migrating to the Dominions will have financial assistance from the Government up to the maximum of £500; and, if not, will he take steps to let sailors and soldiers know to what extent, if any, they will receive financial help from the Government when they migrate to the Dominions?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Hewins)

The Government are not concerned in the distribution of these leaflets, which are entirely unofficial. As regards the last part of the question this will be one of the duties of the emigration authority to be constituted by the Bill, of which notice has been given.

Sir R. COOPER

Does the hon. Gentleman think it right for leaflets of this nature to be distributed among soldiers and sailors, if there is no foundation for them?

Mr. HOGGE

Will my hon. Friend say what unofficial distribution there can be of leaflets of any kind to members of both the Services?

Mr. HEWINS

The question should be addressed to the gentleman who presides over the Institute.

Mr. D. WHITE

Are these leaflets distributed with the sanction of the Colonial Office?

Mr. HEWINS

I have just answered the question.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Have the Government undertaken to pay any sums of money for the emigration of discharged men?

Mr. HEWINS

I have just pointed out that an Emigration Bill will be introduced dealing with all these questions. Perhaps the hon. Member will know something about it when it is introduced.