HC Deb 25 May 1950 vol 475 cc2218-9
25. and 26. Mr. Lennox-Boyd

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (1) whether his attention has been drawn to an official pronouncement by the Australian Minister for Immigration on 14th April, about the insufficiency of ships for the 100,000 immigrants wishing to sail from Britain this year; and what steps he is taking to deal with this difficulty.

(2) The total number of emigrants to Australia for whom passages can be provided; and what steps he is taking to increase shipping facilities.

Mr. Gordon-Walker

During 1950 the total anticipated lift for Australia in 11 special migrant ships is 34,500. The number of berths available in commercial ships brings the total up to approximately 76,600. I have seen the report of the statement by the Australian Minister for Immigration referred to by the hon. Member. It is the case that there is at the moment not sufficient United Kingdom shipping available to meet the full increased requirements of the Australian immigration programme. We are giving and shall continue to give all possible assistance in this matter but at the present time all suitable British passenger shipping is fully employed.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Can the Minister say whether, in view of the statement made yesterday to the hon. and learned Member for Aberdeen, North (Mr. Hector Hughes), that there was unemployment in the shipyards and that it might be growing, this might not be a suitable opportunity of meeting this great need of Australia and Britain. Will he consider the use of aircraft carriers, because, otherwise, Australia is bound to take emigrants from elsewhere in Europe although anxious to take them from the United Kingdom?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

A quite elaborate reconditioning of ships has taken place, as the hon. Gentleman doubtless knows. Six ships on this run have undergone major alterations and there is one now—the "New Australia"—which is undergoing major alterations. The question of placing orders is a matter for the Australian Government and not for His Majesty's Government.

Major Guy Lloyd

Could not the Government have shown unusual foresight by using the "Aquitania" for this purpose, at any rate for a short time, instead of allowing her to be broken up?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

We have discussed with the Australian Government the use of a great number of various ships, and we have come to agreement on the ships which it pays to use on this run. We have given very great and urgent aid to increasing the number of berths available by converting ships and diverting ships. I might add that the number of berths is 4,000 down, because the Australian Government very generously released the "Georgic" for six months to earn dollars on the North Atlantic run. The number would otherwise have been 4,000 more.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Has the Minister discussed with the Australian Government the possibility of flying emigrants to Australia, which would help both countries to establish a merchant fleet of the air?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

I do not think that matter has been discussed between the two Governments. It would be a very expensive operation.