§ 43. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations and the Colonies what consultations he has had with the Government of Australia and with other Commonwealth Governments about accommodation for emigrant families and individuals from this country; what steps are taken to make emigrants fully acquainted with the housing shortage, particularly in Australia; whether guarantees are given to emigrants that at least temporary hostel accommodation will be provided where necessary; and what is the approximate annual return of emigrants.
§ Mr. SandysThere have been no consultations with the Australian Government or with any other Commonwealth Government on this matter as it is a well-established principle that the receiving country is responsible for the housing of its immigrants. Prospective migrants to Canada, Australia and New Zealand are clearly informed of the housing position in those countries. Migrants under the United Kingdom—Australia Assisted Passages scheme and single migrants to New Zealand are guaranteed hostel accommodation on arrival. No hostel accommodation is guaranteed for immigrants into Canada,154W but there are special arrangements for assisting immigrants to find housing accommodation.
It is understood that the net loss in migrants to Canada, Australia and New Zealand is between 1½ per cent. and 3 per cent, after taking into account the fact that many of the migrants who do return to Britain, go back again.