DEMAND IN N.Z. FOR LABOUR

Southland Times, Issue 23818, 16 May 1939, Page 8

DEMAND IN N.Z. FOR LABOUR

PREFERENCE FOR MEN IN DOMINION REVIVAL OF IMMIGRATION DISCUSSED (United Press Association) WELLINGTON, May 15. The question whether it would be advisable for New Zealand to import immigrants to lighten the effect of the shortage of labour on farms, in factories and in homes was introduced by a deputation which waited on the Minister of Internal Affairs (the Hon. W. E. Parry). The Minister said that the Government aimed at finding work for New Zealanders before embarking on an immigration scheme.

It was stated that there was a retardation of enterprise and development evident in many important spheres because of the impossibility of meeting the demands for labour.

Mr Parry replied that it was correct that in the primary and secondary industries there was not nearly sufficient labour available, but it would be wrong to say that the Government was not making a stout effort—not without success —to relieve the position in many ways. The deputation, he said, had spoken of reviving the country’s immigration policy, which had been dormant for some years. “That brought up the question of the welfare of our people,” said the Minister. “We must see that all our men, women and young people are satisfactorily and beneficially placed before any scheme for immigration is decided upon.” The chief desire of the Government was to see that all avenues of employment received their right type of labour and explorations of the Labour and Industries Departments were all directed in that direction, Mr Parry added. Many letters had been received by members of the Government from people in England and foreign countries who wished to settle in New Zealand and, after outlining the contents of some of the communications, he said that it was evident that New Zealand could quickly have a very cosmopolitan population.