FAMILIES FROM HOME

Waikato Times, Volume 106, Issue 17805, 2 September 1929, Page 7

FAMILIES FROM HOME

IMMIGRATION SCHEME. COMMITTEES OF WELCOME. (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) HASTINGS. Saturday. Interviewed on his return from England, Rear-Admiral Lawson of Havelock North had many interesting things to say regarding his endeavours to formulate a system whereby suitable family emigrants might be attracted to the Dominion. His main contentions are that, besides bringing out settlers prepared to earn their living and willing by reason of economic necessity to try any experiment, there is room for many heads of families with small fixed incomes to whom New Zealand would appeal as a place to educate and settle their children. The Admiral considered'that representative centres of men and. women should be formed to supply information, meet newcomers and help them (though not financially) on arrival. In London Admiral Lawson interviewed Mr Bavin, secretary of the Overseas Settlement Committee, who commended the idea, wrich had been adopted with some success in Canada. 'The Admiral said assisted passages were not contemplated, and there should be no overlapping with other organisations. The Overseas League at Home would put committees .in touch with suitable families, who would be met on arrival and advised on housing, schools, openings for children, etc. The whole idea was to link the Dominion more closely with the Mother Country and that the scheme should be based on friendly, not financial, help. It is intended to set up a committee in Hastings. The Mayor, Mr Roach, gives his cordial approval and is willing to act as chairman.