HC Deb 26 June 1951 vol 489 cc1179-80
51. Mr. Heathcoat Amory

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in the interests of the free movement of population within the Commonwealth, he will increase the amount of sterling that an emigrant may take to Canada.

Mr. Gaitskell

After discussions with the Canadian Government, I have decided to make the following modifications in current practice. The present limit of one thousand pounds will be increased by two hundred and fifty pounds in respect of each dependent member of the emigrant's family up to a limit of four dependents.

I am also prepared to consider applications by emigrants to Canada to purchase with funds in this country, during their first four years, any personal effects and tools of their trade. The Canadian Government have undertaken to allow such articles in duty free. These changes will apply to emigrants already in Canada as well as to those going out in the future. The new allowance for dependents will also apply to the United States and any country where the present one thousand pound limit applies.

Mr. Amory

While that concessions will be very welcome, will the Chancellor do everything he can to try to sweep away these currency restrictions between this country and Canada so as to encourage the flow of population which I am sure everyone in this country would like to see?

Mr. Gaitskell

That must depend on the dollar situation.

Captain Crookshank

The right hon. Gentleman said that it applied to emigrants already in Canada. What is the date of emigration for the purposes of this concession?

Mr. Gaitskell

Since the dollar restrictions were imposed.