HC Deb 10 May 1950 vol 475 cc385-6
65. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what plans have been made to ensure a steady emigration of 1,000 a month to deal with unemployment in Malta.

Mr. J. Dugdale

Under the present constitution responsibility for emigration policy rests with the Maltese Government, which established a separate Department of Emigration in 1947 for this purpose. The Minister in charge of that Department told the Maltese Legislature in February last that 8,000 emigrants had left in 1949–50 and that it was hoped that 12,000 would leave in 1950–51.

Mr. Rankin

Cannot my right hon. Friend do anything to assist the Maltese Government in achieving emigration at this rate?

Mr. Dugdale

We have not been approached by the Maltese Government to do so. If they wish to approach us, I have no doubt that we will give the matter consideration.

Mr. Peter Smithers

Could not arrangements be made for some of these people to be received in parts of the Colonial Empire which are suitable for white settlement?

Mr. Dugdale

That is another question.