HC Deb 19 March 1917 vol 91 c1523
13. Mr. BUTCHER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will state what steps are taken to regulate the issue of passports to naturalized British subjects of enemy origin and to prevent the issue of passports to those who are of military age; and whether he is satisfied that such steps are adequate for the purpose?

Mr. BALFOUR

All applications for passports received from naturalised British subjects of enemy origin are specially considered in consultation with the War Office, the Home Office, and the other authorities concerned, and passports are not granted save in very exceptional circumstances. The answer to the latter part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr. BUTCHER

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the recruiting officer is always consulted before the issue of passports to those who are leaving the country and who are of military age?

Mr. BALFOUR

The representative of the War Office is consulted, I believe, but I am not quite sure.

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