EMIGRATION FOR THE WORKING CLASSES.

Colonist, Issue 8, 17 November 1857, Page 1

EMIGRATION FOR THE WORKING CLASSES.

On the 13th of August last, a public meeting, convened by the Metropolitan Emigration Society for the Working Classes, was held at St. Martin's Hall, to explain the objects of the society, and to adopt a petition to parliament for a grant for emigration purposes, lo enable the distressed mechanic to emigrate to any of the British colonies. There was a large attendance, composed mainly of working men. Mr. Ayrton, JVI.P., took the chair. He said it was not for him to explain the objects of the society, but he would take the opportunity of making a few remarks upon the subject of emigration, because there were many who entertain opinions unfavorable to that which he had always regarded as the best means of relieving the redundant labor, not only of the metropolis, but in every part of the kingdom. No man had a right to say that he would remain in misery and indigence, to be. supported by his neighbours, if an opportunity can be afforded him to go into new lands which are teeming with fertility, and where, by his industry and perseverance, he may become not merely a useful member of society, but a wealthy member of society, and as independent in his position as any other man in this country. The question was, how is the needy mechanic to be enabled to participate in these opportunities ? The English Government had long given up the practice ol providing means for the emigration of. the working classes; but it had established a society for the management of such emigration, the funds of that society being supplied from the various colonies requiring emigrants. He, however, regretted to say that their funds were in a very • precarious state, and it therefore behoved those who wished to leave this country to look about for some other means to enable them to do so. Mr. Ridgway, emigration officer for Auckland, pointed out .the necessity of procuring full information upon the subject before they contemptated leaving the country. Mr. Robinson then moved—" That in consequence of the overcrowded state of tho labor market, and the wide-spread distress that existed' in all parts of this metropolis last winter, and there being no better prospect for the ensuing winter, it is , the duty of all right thinking men to support a society the object of which is the benefit of the working-ilass. A Working Man seconded the resolution, which was carried. Colonel Harvey and several working men having addressed the meeting, a petition to parliament was adopted, praying for a Government grant towards free emigration to the British colonies.