Close look at Tasman migration

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33693, 16 November 1974, Page 2

Close look at Tasman migration

(N.Z.P.A, Stall Correspondent) SYDNEY, November 15. The Australian Immigration Minister (Mr Clyde Cameron) will visit New Zealand soon to discuss immigration loopholes arising from the free movement of people across the Tasman.

A spokesman for the Australian Immigration Department said last night that no firm date had been set for

Mr Cameron’s visit, but it would be before Christmas. The Federal Caucus on Wednesday endorsed Govem- , ment plans to clamp down on , the free entry accorded British citizens. Until now, I British citizens paying their i own way to Australia have been allowed free access into Australia. From January 1, however, they will require visas to enter Australia, and Britons living in Australia will require re-entry visas if they • wish to return to Australia • after overseas visits. i Those entering Australia • on visitor’s visas will not be

allowed to work. Those wishing to work in Australia, will have their visas marked “permanent resident” and will be encouraged to apply for Australian citizenship. The department spokesman said that about 10,000 British migrants a year had gained free access to Australia; which number, as well as with about 2000 Canadians, comprised about 10 per cent of Australia’s annual immigration programme.

“Until now the first we have known about these people is when they arrive at our airports,” he said. The loopholes Mr Cameron

will discuss in New Zealand arise mainly from the movement across the Tasman .of Commonwealth citizens who have settled in either New Zealand or Australia.

The spokesman said present plans were for the “open door” immigration policy, allowing the free movement of Australians and New Zealanders, to remain, but there could be some restrictions placed on the movement of British citizens. New Zealand is also anxious to ensure there is not a flood of out-of-work Australians arriving in New Zealand and the Prime Minister

(Mr Rowling) has asked for a paper on the subject to be presented to the Cabinet by the Immigration Minister (Mr Colman) next Monday. The Australian spokesman said last night that he would not be surprised if New Zealand raised this question during Mr Cameron’s visit. He said New Zealand might seek some restriction on Australians seeking work in New Zealand.

Mr Rowling said on Monday that New Zealand could absorb the usual flow of Australian seasonal workers, but not many more.