REPATRIATION

Evening Post, Volume CXI, Issue 41, 18 February 1931, Page 8

REPATRIATION

(To the Editor.) - Sir,—Much thought, . earnest consideration, and heart searching has centred around the grave problem o£ unemployment —and much has been accomplished by the board, and much yet confronts them. May I suggest a sound, practical solution of some of the difficulties? My plan is to immediately call for applications from emigrants desirous of returning to their old homes in England and Scotland. A great number, known to the writer personally, would jump at any system of assisted passages. Yet try as they might they find it impossible to save the full fares, viz., £39 each for man and wife, not to mention that portion of passage money for any children. If it wa;s possible to bring the many thousands out here for £11 each (man and wife, all children free), then it is sound and practicable to afford those eager to return similar assistance. It' the applicants have resided in New Zealand for the full term of five years stipulated in the terms of their conveyance to this Dominion, and their application to be returned sound and in order, then by all means let the Government grant them their wish.' Hundreds would gladly and eagerly apply at once. It would be a sound, economical, and _ just scheme. It would relieve the strain on the resources of this country and the Unemployment Board; help considerably the colonial-born men seeking work; and, in general, solve a great part of the problem of the workless and helpless. Unfortunately, among the many thousands of unemployed, are a great number of skilled tradesmen, artisans, and craftsmen from Home, whose chances of obtaining good permanent employment here, at present, is hopeless. I venture to assert that this is a sound solution —one that would be heartily endorsed by every level-headed man and woman in New Zealand who has the welfare of this Dominion at heart. In brief, it is only an act of justice and fair play to both the colonial and emigrant.— I ami etc., » MACAWBER.