HC Deb 30 October 1947 vol 443 c1082
55. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the serious position of production, he will consider making conditions in this country so attractive to working men and women that the value of their labour is not lost by emigration.

Mr. Isaacs

The question of emigration must be regarded not solely from the standpoint of our production needs, but also from that of the long term advantages of the interchange of population within the British Commonwealth. Nor could the natural flow of emigration, which is already limited by the available transport facilities, be stopped except by the imposition of special restrictions, and I do not intend to take such a course.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister aware that week by week some of the very best of our young workers are leaving this country because of conditions which are offered? Cannot he consider a wages and profits policy which will keep workers in this country, and drive parasites out of the country?

Mr. Charles Williams

Is it not rather strange that none of the workers of this country wants to emigrate to fully Socialist Russia?

Mr. H. Hynd

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many workers are emigrating to Australia, and New Zealand, where excellent Labour Governments are in power?

Mr. Henry Strauss

Does the Minister know whether it is the policy of Communism abroad to prohibit workers leaving their country, or do they seek to retain them by attractive conditions?