HC Deb 09 April 1919 vol 114 cc2016-7
37. Sir J. D. REES

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the reasons for the delays in issuing passports for Scandinavia to British trade representatives; and if he will say whether foreign trade rivals are subject to the same restrictions and delays?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Cecil Harmsworth)

Applications for passports received from trade representatives, especially when supported by the Department of Overseas Trade or Chambers of Commerce, are given special priority, and the passports are issued without delay.

It is necessary for all travellers to obtain the visas of the foreign consuls concerned, and this may occasion some delay. This requirement, however, applies to travellers of all nationalities.