HC Deb 30 June 1931 vol 254 c1064
6. Mr. McSHANE (for Mr. McGOVERN)

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs if he can make any provision for the return to this country of emigrants an our Dominions who are unemployed and destitute?

Mr. THOMAS

I have every sympathy with migrants from this country who may be in difficulties in the Dominions, but I am afraid that it is not possible to provide return passages in such cases.

Mr. McSHANE

Has the right hon. Gentleman the fullest confidence in the immigration authorities there; is he aware that a large number of decent young men are now tramping the roads and can get no relief anywhere; and will he not, in the special circumstances, do what he can to get as many as possible of these men deported back here as soon as possible?

Mr. THOMAS

I am aware of the facts stated by my hon. Friend; I have had many cases; but whether it would be wise or desirable for me to provide merely return passages is very debateable.