Ex-Service Emigrants (Dominions)

Oral Answers to Questions — Commonwealth Relations – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 22 Ebrill 1948.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Luke Teeling Mr Luke Teeling , Brighton 12:00, 22 Ebrill 1948

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether, in view of the number of ex-Service men who are desirous of emigrating to the Dominions and who are uncertain as to what jobs to go to, he will approach the Governments of the Commonwealth as to whether these men will be allowed to enlist in the armed Forces of the Dominions for a period of years before settling down.

Photo of Mr Patrick Gordon Walker Mr Patrick Gordon Walker , Smethwick

I know of nothing to prevent migrants from this country on arrival in other Commonwealth countries applying to enlist in the Armed Forces there if they so desire. I would, however, point out that, in view of shipping difficulties, the present policy is to accept as assisted migrants only persons for whom there is a reasonable prospect of employment in the receiving country or who have been nominated by friends or relatives there.

Photo of Mr Luke Teeling Mr Luke Teeling , Brighton

Does not the hon. Gentleman think it would be possible for the Dominions Offices in London to arrange for some of these people to be recruited, if necessary?

Photo of Mr Patrick Gordon Walker Mr Patrick Gordon Walker , Smethwick

No doubt that would be possible, but it would be a matter for the Governments concerned. Lord John Hope: Is not a migrant a bird?

Photo of Sir Edward Keeling Sir Edward Keeling , Twickenham

Is not a migrant a bird which always comes back?

Photo of Mr Thomas Skeffington-Lodge Mr Thomas Skeffington-Lodge , Bedford

Is it not a fact that a great many of these migrants who have gone to the Dominions are only too thankful to get home again because they are completely disillusioned about the state of affairs over there?