HC Deb 18 June 1928 vol 218 c1425W
Sir R. THOMAS

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware that the scheme of family emigration to Canada with assisted passages is widely regarded as discriminating against people who cannot qualify and have to pay high fares, and is consequently operating as a deterrent to many desirable immigrants, especially young single men; and will he consider broadening the basis of qualification, so as to extend some assistance to all intending settlers who are sound in mind and body?

Mr. AMERY

The Canadian assisted passage scheme is not confined to families; single men, experienced and inexperienced in farm work, are eligible for assistance if willing to take up work on the land, and single women if going to household work. In view, however, of the desirability of encouraging family migration, and of the fact that openings for families overseas are strictly limited owing to the difficulty in finding suitable places, special schemes have been arranged for the settlement of families on farms of their own.