HC Deb 22 November 1926 vol 200 cc28-9
22. Major GLYN

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what steps, if any, are to be taken, in co-operation with the Ministry of Labour, to increase the number of training centres where youths and men from industrial areas can acquire some knowledge of agricultural conditions obtaining in the Dominions overseas by using the implements, harness, etc., in common use in Canada and Australia; and, up to date, how many persons so trained in existing centres have migrated overseas?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for COLONIAL AFFAIRS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)

The question of providing increased facilities for the training of young men, with a view to employment on the land overseas, has been considered by the Imperial Conference, and my hon. and gallant Friend will have seen in the Press the report of the Sub-Committee which has been adopted by the Imperial Conference. General approval of the existing centres is expressed, and the hope that these centres should be continued and, if possible, extended. These matters will in due course be carefully considered by His Majesty's Government. As regards the last part of the question, 250 young men have proceeded overseas from the Ministry of Labour's training centres after a course of training in farm work—98 to Canada and 152 to Australia.

Viscountess ASTOR

Has the Under-Secretary considered setting up these training colleges for women who are particularly needed in Australia?

Mr. SPEAKER

That point should be put as a separate question.