HC Deb 07 April 1936 vol 310 cc2573-4
12. Mr. DUNCAN

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he will encourage the setting up in New Zealand of a Fairbridge farm-school similar to those established in other Dominions?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)

I understand that the Fairbridge Society are examining the possibility of establishing a farm-school in New Zealand. If the project is supported by the New Zealand Government, and the Society approaches me for a Government contribution towards the cost, I will give the application my careful consideration.

13. Mr. DUNCAN

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he has considered the statement of Mr. Savage, Prime Minister of New Zealand, that his Government would be more than sympathetic to a scheme of planned immigration to that country; and will he immediately ask the Oversea Settlement Board to take this matter up with the New Zealand authorities and prepare mutually satisfactory plans?

Mr. MacDONALD

I have seen reports in the Press of the statement of the Prime Minister of New Zealand to which my hon. Friend refers. I am awaiting a fuller report so that I may give it careful consideration.

Mr. DUNCAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman get the Oversea Settlement Board to consider this matter so that they can lay their plans in advance?

Mr. MacDONALD

The board are engaged in an examination with a view to laying plans now. It is holding regular meetings. If there is any matter arising out of this statement, I will, when I get a full report of it, submit it to the board.

Sir PATRICK HANNON

Is not this an opportunity for the board to take action at once?

Mr. MAXTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that previous efforts in this direction have met with disastrous results?

Mr. LEVY

Can the board initiate plans or have they simply to consider plans put before them?

Mr. MacDONALD

They consider proposals on any matters which are put before them by the Secretary of State.