HC Deb 24 February 1920 vol 125 c1475
35. Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

asked the Home Secretary whether it is still necessary for individuals travelling to France to obtain a visé to their passports; and, if so, whether it is proposed to abolish the visé system at an early date?

Mr. SHORTT

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. It is a requirement of the French authorities that a person desiring to land in France must have obtained a French visa, and the British Government has no power to abolish this rule.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this system will go on indefinitely? Will not representations be made to the French Government?

Mr. SHORTT

It is not the duty of my Department to do that.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Whose duty is it?

Mr. SHORTT

I would refer the hon. Member to the Leader of the House.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Will the Leader of the House make representations to the French Government?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not see exactly why my right hon. Friend should have appealed to me. It is a question for the Foreign Office.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Why is it that the French Government are so reluctant to allow English people to go to France? What have we done?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member had better ask that of the French Government.