HC Deb 14 June 1966 vol 729 cc1224-5
15. Sir D. Renton

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he is aware that the development of Australia will require large numbers of immigrants and quantities of capital, which the people of Australia would rather obtain from the United Kingdom than from elsewhere; and what steps Her Majesty's Government are taking to facilitate this.

Mrs. Hart

I am aware that Australia is anxious to attract immigrants and capital from Britain. The flow of migrants to Australia has increased in recent years. It was about 77,000 in 1964 and some 90,000 in 1965. We have no plans to stimulate a further increase. As regards capital, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer explained in his Budget speech why it has become necessary for the time being to slow down the flow of investment to developed countries in the sterling area, which includes Australia.

I should like to take this opportunity of acknowledging the understanding with which the Voluntary Programme has been received by the Australian Government.

Sir D. Renton

Although the first part of that Answer is more or less satisfactory, will the hon. Lady bear in mind that tremendous economic expansion is taking place in Australia, in which the Australians would like us to play a part? Would she use all her endeavours to see that we resume our part as soon as possible.

Mrs. Hart

Indeed, but I think that the right hon. and learned Gentleman is fully aware of the difficulties which stand at the moment in the way of doing this.

Mr. Fisher

Would the hon. Lady agree to acknowledge that her Government's attitude is still one of somewhat hostile neutrality towards emigration to Australia? Does the Overseas Migration Board still exist? If so, how many times a year does it meet, and does it ever make any policy recommendations to her right hon. Friend.

Mrs. Hart

The hon. Gentleman will find that a statement is to be made later today covering some of what he has said.

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