HC Deb 11 April 1928 vol 162 c1196
37. Mr. NEWBOLD

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will issue instructions to the managers of the Employment Exchanges to call the attention of all persons unemployed and contemplating emigration to the existence of widespread unemployment in New South Wales and other States of the Australian Commonwealth?

Sir M. BARLOW

A general notice such as the hon. Member suggests would, I think, be misleading, as there are undoubtedly many openings for suitable settlers on the land in Australia, and also for women prepared to undertake domestic work. By arrangement with the Australian authorities, employment in Australia is assured for all applicants selected through the agency of the Employment Exchanges. This is, I think, the most satisfactory form of precaution that can be taken.

Mr. NEWBOLD

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there are fully 20,000 unemployed at Sydney at present who cannot possibly get jobs?

Captain ARTHUR EVANS

Is it not a fact that there is no unemployment in the agricultural industry'?

Sir M. BARLOW

I think the second supplementary question largely answers the first.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

It was put on purpose for that.

Sir M. BARLOW

The problems of employment in the towns and in the country are entirely different..

Dr. CHAPPLE

Has the right hon. Gentleman any reason to doubt that the Government of New South Wales are acquainted with the extent of unemployment, and are they not encouraging emigration from this country?