Skilled and Professional People (Migration)

HC Deb 28 October 1965 vol 718 cc89-90W

Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether, in view of the need for doctors, teachers and other skilled professional personnel in the underdeveloped parts of the Commonwealth, he will now take steps to encourage such would-be immigrants to stay in their own countries.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

It is a matter for the Commonwealth Governments con- cerned, if they so wish, to encourage their skilled and professional people to remain in their own countries. We cannot intervene in their internal affairs. But it should be remembered that very often such people, particularly doctors, gain valuable further experience and training while working here which may not be available in their own countries and which will be of benefit when they return.