HC Deb 14 July 1993 vol 228 cc503-4W
Mr. Hinchliffe

To ask the Prime Minister (1) if he will place in the Library all Government records relating to the child migrant scheme;

(2) what discussions he has had with representatives of the Australian, New Zealand and Canadian Governments concerning the welfare of United Kingdom child migrants; what is the Government's policy towards the compensation of those who have suffered as a result of this scheme; if he will take steps to increase Government grant assistance to the Child Migrant Trust; and if he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

It would not be right to place personal record files in the Library. Other records are considered for deposit in the Public Record Office in the usual way.

I have not raised the subject of child migrants with the Heads of Government in Australia, New Zealand or Canada, nor have they raised the subject with me. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health is contacting the Australian authorities.

I know there have been allegations of physical and sexual abuse of a number of child migrants some years ago in Australia, but any such allegations will be a matter for the Australian authorities. I am not aware of any allegations involving the British authorities or claims against them for compensation.

The Child Migrant Trust applied for Government funds and has received a section 64 grant of £25,000 from the Department of Health for the current year.

Any future application will be considered by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health.