PASSPORT REGULATIONS. (Hansard, 18 February 1915)

HC Deb 18 February 1915 vol 69 cc1306-16 1306

§ 4. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE
asked the-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the sudden imposition of new Passport Regulations without making provision for added facilities for complying with the additional. Regulations is causing much inconvenience; and whether, in view of the Foreign Office issuing passports to be viséd on this side by the French Consul prior to crossing the Channel and also on the return journey by the British Consul, he will take step to see that the British Consulate in Paris remains open until 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 2 till 4 p.m.?

The UNDER-SECRETARY Of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Primrose)
A fortnight's notice was given through the Press and by all other available means of the new Regulations, and all necessary facilities were provided by the erection of a special building-and the provision of a largely increased staff to deal with applications for passports. With regard to the second part of the hon. Member's question, the British Consulate-General at Paris is open every day from ten till four, and the staff are usually on duty till after six. Furthermore, special arrangements were made some time ago whereby passports can be "visé" on application at any hour of the evening.