HC Deb 16 February 1926 vol 191 cc1727-8
85. Major BIRCHALL

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether it is now possible to send further family groups of settlers from this country to West Australia?

86. Mr. PENNY

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, in view of the urgent desire of many families in this country to settle in Australia, he will make representations to the Government of Western Australia, with a view to the speedy reopening of the group settlement scheme?

Mr. AMERY

Three groups of 20 families each are now being recruited for Western Australia. The Western Australian Government has signified its acceptance of the Migration Agreement completed last year between the Imperial and Commonwealth Governments, and it is hoped that a steady flow of migration under the group system will shortly be resumed.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

What steps does the Department take to investigate the conditions of these settlers, and to inquire into the very serious complaints that are very often made?

Mr. AMERY

Representatives of the Department have in the last few weeks been visiting the various groups, and have reported very favourably on them.

Major CRAWFURD

Is there any hope of any similar scheme with regard to single men?

Mr. AMERY

I will certainly consider that.