§ 6. Mr. DUNCANasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what action the Government propose to take in view of the fact that the Empire Settlement 1478 Act, 1922, is due to expire on 31st May next?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)Yes, Sir. His Majesty's Government have considered the matter, and have come to the conclusion that the period of the operation of the Empire Settlement Act, 1922, should be extended, and that certain other modifications should be effected in the provisions of the Act. I propose to ask leave to introduce shortly a Bill for this purpose. In considering the terms of the Bill, I am taking into account recommendations on the question made to me by the Oversea Settlement Board. The Report of the Board containing their recommendations will be issued shortly in the form of a Command Paper.
§ Mr. LUNNIs it proposed, in this new Bill, to alter the 50–50 arrangement between this country and the Dominions?
§ Mr. MacDONALDIt would be impossible for me to give any information on that matter now, but I anticipate that the Bill, if I am given leave, will be introduced fairly shortly.
§ Mr. MAXTONIs the right hon. Gentleman proposing to continue this Act? Is he not aware that the Act was almost a complete disaster, and would it not be necessary to bring in an entirely new Measure?
§ Mr. DUNCANIs it not clear that the new Bill is not a continuation of the old Act, but is a new Measure with considerable amendments?
§ Mr. MacDONALDI am proposing certain amendments. In any case some legislation is necessary if we are to be able to continue making contributions towards such excellent schemes as the Fairbridge Farm School scheme.