D.—B

1924. NEW ZEALAND.

BOY IMMIGRANTS. PARTICULARS REGARDING THE CONDITION UNDER WHICH THEY ARE PLACED WITH FARMERS IN NEW ZEALAND, ETC.

Return to am, Order of the House of Representatives dated Ist October, 1924. Ordered, "That there be laid before this House a statement giving full particulars of—(1) The conditions under which boy immigrants are placed with farmers in the Dominion; (2) the period of training ; and (3) the provisions, if any, for placing thorn on land after their period of training is completed."—(Mr. McKeen.)

(1.) Conditions under which Boy Immigrants are placed with Farmers in the Dominion. The boys, who must be at least sixteen years of age, and as a general rule under nineteen years of age, proceed to the Dominion as nominated migrants, and are placed with farmers approved by the nominators and the Immigration Department. Such boys are guaranteed a commencing-wage of at least 10s. per week, with board and lodging ; increases in the wages will depend on the ability of the individual boy. (Note : Many of the farmers arc paying wages considerably in excess of the minimum.) (2.) The Period of Training. There is no set period of training, but in their own interests the boys endeavour to become proficient as speedily as possible, with, a view to launching out under one of the headings included in paragraph (3). (3.) The Provisions, if any:, for placing them on Land after their Period of Training is completed. On completion of their training the boys may— (1.) Continue in employment as farm-workers : (2.) If trained in dairy-farming, engage; in share milking : (3.) Acquire land from the Crown (available Crown lands, both improved and unimproved, are offered for lease for long term, or lease with right of purchase ; these lands are open for public application, and the right of selection is decided by ballot) : (4.) Acquire a lease of private land : (5.) Take advantage of the liberal fmancia' assistance that is obtainable from the State Advances Office : (6.) Acquire land by purchase from private owners.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given; printing 076 copies), £1 10s.

By Authority: W. A. G. Skinner, Government Printer, Wellington.—l924.

Price 3d.}