HC Deb 04 May 1932 vol 265 cc1100-1
33. Mr. McGOVERN

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs if he has had an opportunity of considering the questions raised by the Australian migrants' petition recently presented to the House; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

I have seen the text of the petition which was printed in the OFFICIAL REPORT of 14th April. I am advised that many of the statements which it contains are considerably exaggerated and some are without foundation. I have every sympathy with those migrants who are in difficulties in Australia, but I am afraid it is not possible to take any such action as the petitioners suggest.

Mr. McGOVERN

As the main feature is that men and women are unemployed and starving, will the right hon. Gentleman try to get consideration by the Cabinet with a view to something being done to ease the situation of these men and women who are facing such a horrible position?

Mr. THOMAS

I am quite sure my hon. Friend will agree that our first consideration in all these matters is at home.

When my attention was drawn to the statement that there was differential treatment of the unemployed who were migrants and those who were native-born, I took the question up and assured my hon. Friend that there was no foundation for the statement. It is very difficult to say to any Dominion that they must take a certain course, and it is much more difficult to accept a responsibility which is limited to one Dominion.

Mr. McGOVERN

Apart from my question, may I ask whether consideration has been given to this question by the Cabinet, and, if not, whether the right hon. Gentleman will try to get consideration?

Mr. THOMAS

This is hardly a matter that can be brought before the Cabinet. Frankly, it is a question that affects a particular Dominion. Unless It affects all Dominions, it is hardly a question for the Cabinet.

Mr. McGOVERN

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter at the earliest possible opportunity on the Adjournment.