§ Sir J. LEIGHasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department. whether it is owing to differences of opinion that have arisen among the members of the Oversea Settlement Committee that a delay has occurred in putting the provisions of the Empire Settlement Act into full force; and whether he can hold out any hope of further and more practical assistance being given to encourage emigration.
§ Lieut.-Colonel BUCKLEYNo, Sir. Schemes under the Empire Settlement Act can only be developed "in association with the Government of any part of His Majesty's Dominions, or with public authorities or public or private organisations either in the United Kingdom or in any part of such Dominions." A considerable number of schemes are already in force; others are under discussion. The full development of the new policy necessarily requires time. But the Oversea Settlement Committee are prepared to co-operate in agreed schemes to the full extent authorised by the Act, and they are care fully considering the possibility of affording further assistance, where necessary, for example, in the case of families. The whole problem will, as my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, receive full consideration at the forthcoming Economic Conference.