HC Deb 13 June 1951 vol 488 cc2277-8
33. Mr. Gammans

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware of the increasing number of West Indians who are coming to this country to seek employment; how far he proposes to encourage this migration; and what steps he is taking to provide welfare services for them on arrival and to put them in touch with prospective employers.

Mr. J. Griffiths

I am aware that West Indians are coming here to seek work. It would hardly be in their own best interests to encourage this immigration since most of these men lack the special skills which would ensure their employment here.

I am satisfied that there is no need for special welfare services for migrants from the West Indies. The question of providing employment is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service, but officials of his Department and mine are constantly in touch on this.

Mr. Gammans

As I gather from the right hon. Gentleman that he is not in favour of this immigration does he propose to do anything in the West Indies to discourage it?

Mr. Griffiths

I am not in favour of encouraging it because I do not want them to come here and find they cannot get a job and then feel frustrated.

Mr. Peter Smithers

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the tendency of these men to concentrate in the East End of London and of the dangerous social problems that arise from that? Is he in touch with the appropriate Departments on that matter?

Mr. Griffiths

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Sorensen

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this happens not only in the East End of London but in other parts and provides problems for numbers of social workers in these towns? Could something be done at the other end in connection with this problem?

Mr. Griffiths

This is not a new problem. There is a great deal of experience of it in ports like Cardiff and a very great deal of valuable social work is being done.

Mr. Donner

Are the Government doing anything to assist these West Indians or to advise them in any way as to how best they can return to the West Indies?

Mr. Griffiths

Yes, we are.

Mr. Awbery

Is my right hon. Friend aware that some employers in this country are advertising in West Indian newspapers that employment will be available for these people?

Mr. Griffiths

Perhaps my hon. Friend will bring any such instances to my notice.