SELECTION OF U.K. IMMIGRANTS FOR NEW ZEALAND

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 15, Issue 78, 4 August 1950, Page 7

SELECTION OF U.K. IMMIGRANTS FOR NEW ZEALAND

(Special to Beacon)

Wellington, yesterday

In an explanation in the House of Representatives of the system in operation for the selection of immigrants coming to New Zealand from the United Kingdom, the Minister of Immigration, Mr Sullivan, said that initial selection of United Kingdom applicants for inclusion in the Government’s immigration scheme was by specially selected New Zealand officers. Such officers had knowledge of the requirements, were experienced in dealing with workers and employers, and had ability to advise immigrants on many sub-

jects. All applications were subjected to the closest scrutiny. Two references from responsible persons (not relatives) must testify to character, marital status, and family obligations. References were required from previous and present employers. Character was checked through the police, when necessary. It was not practicable to check all applicants with the police. Close touch was maintained with security authorities.

Applicants were personally interviewed. Birth certificates, proofs of trade qualifications, apprenticeship certificates and previous experience were all verified.

If accepted, applicants were medically examined and X-rayed by a New Zealand nominated doctor. Medical reports were carefully* examined by a New Zealand consultant physician attached to the High Commissioner’s Office, who issued a final medical certificate.

“Nevertheless, every precaution which experience of the scheme up to date can suggest is being taken to ensure the exclusion of undesirable types,” said Mr Sullivan. “Furthermore, advantage has been taken to the fact that Mr H. L. Bockett, Secretary of Labour, is at present overseas, and he has been instructed to check over and strengthen the whole administration of the scheme.”