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Chronicle (Levin), 8 September 1949, Page 6

WELLINGTON, Sept. 7. A nmuber of Dutch farm workers t'roiu the Netherlands East Indies, has been aecepted by New Zealand as immigrants and the iirst of two drafts should arrive by air early in October. Announeing this tonight, the Minister of Labour, Mr. McLagan, recalleci that some time ago New Zealand agreed to accept up to 100 experienced single iarm workers from Holland but owing to unforesoen circurnstances, it had been possible to seleet only 18 workers in Holland , under this arrangenient. There w as, however, a niimbef of experienced farm workers due for demobilisation in the Netherlands East liulies who wished to migrate to New Zealand. In view of the very favourable impression created by earlier arrivals, dt had been uecided to accept the balance of the 100 Dutch farm workers I'roiu ainong these men in the East Indies. The Netherlands Goveminent wou'd meet the cost of their transport to New Zealand and tliey wouhl travel by air as soon -as selection had been completed. A selection oilicer and medical offieer would leave i'or the Dutch East Indies at an eayly date. Ou arrival in New Zealand these workers wouid be- alloeuted to vacaneies whicii had already been notilied to the Depart ment of Labour and Employmenia ar'ter consultation witli represenlatives oi' Eederated Farmers.