2. Mr. ROSTRON DUCKWORTHasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether his attention has been called to the fact that the number of British persons leaving Australia is still in excess of those entering Australia, and that the balance of Australian immigration and emigration is only maintained because of the excess of immigrants from South Europe; and whether any consideration has been given to the possibilities of persuading and arranging for British emigrants to take the place of those now going to Australia from South Europe?
Mr. M. MacDONALDThe statistics issued by the Commonwealth Government for the year 1935 indicate that the position as regards emigration from, and immigration into, Australia during that year was generally as described by my hon. Friend. The position of immigration into Australia is primarily a matter for the Commonwealth and State authorities. The aspects of the matter with which the United Kingdom Government are concerned are being carefully kept in 181 mind with a view to co-operation in the resumption of migration as soon as circumstances permit.
Mr. DUCKWORTHWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability, in the interests of British oversea trade, and with a view to stimulating a little more feeling towards the motherland, that this stream of emigration may be brought about again through efforts between this Government and the Australian Government? It is extremely desirable.