HC Deb 17 March 1980 vol 981 cc82-3W
Mr. Ancram

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps designed to reduce the numbers of skilled workers emigrating from Scotland to Australia and South Africa.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

I am aware of press reports concerning the interest of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa in the recruitment of skilled labour from Scotland, but I have no evidence to suggest that any such emigration is taking place on a significant scale.

The Government are already taking steps to establish a sound and prosperous economy in Scotland, and in the United Kingdom as a whole, in which industry can expand, providing more job opportunities and better prospects for skilled workers.