HC Deb 22 July 1925 vol 186 cc2213-4
88. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many persons other than ex-service men have been migrated under the Empire Settlement Act; what is the amount of money expended on the migration of these persons by the State; what is meant by a nominated emigrant; and, seeing that when the Empire Settlement Act was passing through the House of Commons no mention was made of nominated emigrants, and when the House voted the money to be expended on migration under the provisions of the Empire Settlement Act no restriction of this kind was placed on the choice of emigrants, will he reconsider the present policy?

Mr. AMERY

The total number of migrants assisted under the Empire Settlement Act up to 30th June, 1925, was 109,022. It is not possible to state how many of those were ex-service men. The total amount expended on the migration of these persons was £892,838. A nominated migrant means a person with friends or relatives already resident overseas who are able and willing to undertake responsibility for his settlement. Nomination may also be effected by churches or other organisations approved by an oversea Government. The Empire Settlement Act, 1922, empowers His Majesty's Government to co-operate with oversea Governments in agreed schemes for affording joint assistance to suitable settlers. The final decision as to suitability rests entirely with the oversea Government concerned.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is it not the case that the policy of His Majesty's Government at the present moment is to confine their attention as far as possible to nominated migrants?

Mr. AMERY

Not at all. The policy of the Government is to assist every possible type of suitable migrant. The only case I know of in which an overseas Government have considered that the nominated kind is the only suitable kind is the case of the New South Wales Government.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

How many intending migrants are at present awaiting migration?

Mr. AMERY

Perhaps my hon. Friend will put that question down.

Commander O. LOCKER-LAMPSON

When shall we have an opportunity of discussing this matter in the House?

Mr. AMERY

Presumably on the Colonial Office Estimates.

Mr. HARRIS

Are widows with children considered undesirable settlers?

Mr. AMERY

No, Sir, and in certain cases special assistance is given. But, of course, the last thing one would wish to do is to invite people to go overseas who would not be able to succeed there or make a livelihood.