HC Deb 27 June 1933 vol 279 c1328
42. Sir FRANK SANDERSON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to the marked reduction in the number of visitors to this country from the United States of America; whether he is aware that this is partly attributable to the charge of 10 dollars for visas; and whether, with a view to encouraging American vistors to this country, he will consider materially reducing, if not abolishing, this charge?

Mr. BALDWIN

The economic depression in the United States has necessarily resulted in a considerable decrease in the number of visitors to this country from that country. My right hon. Friend, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, is not, however, satisfied that the falling off in the number of visitors from the United States can be attributed to the 10 dollar visa fee or that a reduction of that fee would lead to any substantial increase in the number. In the circumstances His Majesty's Government still feel obliged to adhere to their decision that it is not possible, for financial reasons, to enter into any further agreements for the reduction or abolition of visa fees.