HC Deb 29 November 1922 vol 159 c667
1. Sir HARRY BRITTAIN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can state which countries now reciprocate with Great Britain in regard to the mutual abolition of the visa on passports for their respective nationals; whether he is aware of any additional foreign land prepared to follow this example; and what steps, if any, are being taken by His Majesty's Government to eliminate this restriction upon the travelling public?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Ronald McNeill)

France, Belgium and Luxemburg now reciprocate. The Swiss Government have so far concluded no reciprocal arrangement with His Majesty's Government, but they admit British subjects, other than those proceeding for employment or permanent residence into Switzerland, without requirement of a Swiss visa on their passports. His Majesty's Government have submitted proposals for the mutual abolition of visas to certain other foreign Governments, with whom negotiations are still proceeding.

Captain Viscount CURZON

Cannot something be done through the League of Nations to secure the abolition of the visa?

Mr. McNEILL

I will convey that suggestion to the right quarter.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

When does the hon. Gentleman expect to hear from the other Governments?

Mr. McNEILL

I cannot say.