THE CHURCH AND EMPIRE SETTLEMENT
[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]
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SIR,—We have been entrusted with the development of vast territories for the benefit of mankind. They call for popula- tion. We are overcrowded here. Wisdom would therefore say, transfer a proportion of this surplus to the Dominions, and it will not only enable these. States to develop their 'potential wealth by our own British stock, but those that remain behind will have a better chance, of securing reasonable "success. With less mouths to feed, and by the manufacture ;of the raw materials sent home by those that a year or two before were strugglers here, there will result a more equitable division of work and profits.
Can anything be more deplorable than the conditions that at present prevail ? . Excellent men—many of whom proved their high worth in 1914-1918--out of work—idle, not by -their own choice. NO less than 70,000 boys are in receipt of the dole, whose only prospect in life is the blind alley. 'Migration must not, however, be regarded as a palliative 'measure for the relief of unemployment. It will, of course, have an important bearing on it, but that is secondary. We must regard it from the level of a great ideal.
For the first time, there has been established by the Church of England Council of Empire Settlement, of which the Archbishop of Canterbury is President, machinery which will ensure that from' the time the migrant leaves these shores until he finally settles down in the new world he will not be lost sight of. The Church has placed all her moral and material forces for the reception, placing, and after-care of migrants, and to link them up with the Church in the new land. Where necessary, the migrant is helped financially. It may be a kit of clothes, or landing money that is wanted, or part fare has to be made up. This, and the cost of maintaining the necessary organization, means money. Will your generous ,readers help ?—I am, Sir, &c.,
Li J. H. STANLEY, Organizing Director.
Church of England Council of Empire Settlement (Appointed by the Church Assembly).
Offices : 39 Victoria Street, London, S.W. I.
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