The labor shortage in the colonies had truly caught Franz by surprise.
He had originally thought that with so many immigrants arriving, there would be enough labor. Reality had slapped him hard in the face. Most of these immigrants were gold prospectors; asking them to settle down and work obediently was simply asking too much.
Everyone dreamed of becoming rich overnight. Unless that dream was shattered, it was difficult for them to settle down. Even if they did, few would be willing to work in the mines.
Franz was not worried about the shortage of gold miners. That was the mine owners' problem. He trusted that they would surely exercise their initiative and solve it. If all else failed, they could just dig slowly. There was no rush.
The main purpose of immigration was to open up plantations, establish an agricultural economy locally, and provide raw materials and markets for domestic industry and commerce.
Prime Minister Felix said, "Your Majesty, our immigration efforts are already proceeding very quickly. The labor shortage in the colonies has begun to affect our plans to develop the African Continent.
"The German regions have an excess population. Every year, large numbers of people driven into bankruptcy choose to emigrate overseas, and a great many of them struggle even to afford the fare.
"Many immigrants heading to the United States have to sign labor contracts in advance, with the employer advancing their travel expenses. Such contracts are usually unequal, and people sign them only because they have no choice if they want to survive.
"If we promise to reimburse a round-trip ticket, I believe many people would be willing to try their luck in Africa. We should be able to retain quite a few of them."
Franz considered it for a moment before saying, "Increasing immigration