Sir,

I have the honour to refer to your Despatch No. A -811 of 21st September, 1946 and to previous communications concerning the employment of Ger man scientists in Canada.

This matter has now been discussed in the Cabinet, and it has been agreed that it would be desirable to bring to Canada a few German scientists for work in which no qualified Canadian personnel are available. It is understood, of course, that the Immigration Authorities would carefully investigate each case from the political and security point of view, and it is envisaged that each scientist accepted should be personally known to a colleague in Canada.

We have been asked by the President of the National Research Council, at whose instigation the Cabinet decision was taken, to assist in obtaining the services of Dr. Kurt Starke of Heidelberg, Germany. Dr. Starke is an out standing scientist and is personally known to Dr. L. G. Cook of the National Research Council. He is acceptable from a political and personal standpoint, and is to be located at McMaster University where he will work with Dr. H. G. Thode who is carrying on important work in the field of radio chemistry.

We are forwarding this request to the Immigration Section of the Department of Mines and Resources for action through their channels, and in the meantime would suggest that you take whatever steps are necessary through Major Macdonnell of C.A.T.C. to clear this man from Germany for service in Canada.

The question of bringing out industrial scientists for work in Canadian industry has been considered by officials of this Department and the Department of Trade and Commerce, and the view is held that the Cabinet decision would cover the immigration to Canada of certain scientists and technicians which have been requested by Canadian industry. Dean Mackenzie of the National Research Council has concurred in this interpretation.

It is anticipated that further requirements for German scientists will be made known in the near future, and you will so be advised. I would appreciate being kept informed of what progress you are making in these matters.

I have etc.
L. B. PEARSON
for the Secretary of State
for External Affairs