§ 2. Mr. FREEMANasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is his intention to take any steps towards the abolition of passports or to minimise the difficulties and expenses incurred in connection with them?
Mr. A. HENDERSONThe resumption of relations with the Soviet Government, together with the modifications made in the passport requirements of certain other Governments, have now made it possible to authorise the grant of an endorsement for all countries in Europe as a general rule. Apart from the considerations to which I drew attention in my reply to my hon. Friend 2221 the Member for Kennington on 6th November last, my hon. Friend will, no doubt, remember that the Debate on the Children's (Employment Abroad) Bill, on 28th January, brought out the fact that the passport system has a very real value in connection with the white slave traffic.