§ Mr. Iremongerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what consultations he has had with Her Majesty's Government in Jamaica regarding the desirability of ensuring that intending immigrants to the Mother Country are adequately informed concerning conditions prevailing here; what official arrangements are made to welcome Her Majesty's West Indian subjects on arrival; what reports he has received concerning their welfare in this country, with special reference to health, housing, and employment; and whether he will make a statement concerning the Government's policy as regards immigration of Commonwealth citizens into the United Kingdom.
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§ Mr. Lennox-BoydSince June, 1956, the British Caribbean Welfare Service has been established in the Colonial Office. This Service is now maintained by the Government of the West Indies and reports regularly to them. Also in 1956 the Chief Officer of the Service visited Jamaica and assisted in the establishment there at a Migrant Advisory Bureau for the guidance of Jamaicans proceeding to this country; this Bureau provides comprehensive information to intending emigrants on all aspects of conditions here: relevant information has also been given prominence in the West Indies by radio, press and other publications.
Members of the Service meet all parties of new arrivals in this country, and, with the co-operation of representatives of the voluntary welfare organisations, give them all advice and practical assistance which they may need.
My Department is in direct and regular touch with other Departments of Her Majesty's Government who are primarily responsible for such matters as health, housing and employment, which affect West Indians and other members of the community alike. Her Majesty's Government keep the general question of immigration from Commonwealth countries under regular review.