§ 13. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the increase in tourist traffic to this country from abroad, he will investigate the whole system of visas with the object of reducing these charges to a minimum or eliminating them altogether?
§ Viscount CRANBORNEI regret that I cannot hold out any hope of a general modification of the visa system. A deputation from the Travel Association recently made representations, however, to the Foreign Office as to the amount of the visa fee required of American citizens visiting this country, and these representations are now receiving careful consideration.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLECan my hon. Friend say when it will be possible to give an answer, in view of the tourist traffic which is going on this summer; and can we have a reply before the Session ends?
§ Viscount CRANBORNEI will give a reply as soon as possible, but, as I said, this needs very careful consideration, and it is receiving careful consideration.
§ Mr. LEACHIs the Noble Lord aware that the American Government are quite willing to facilitate the traffic of tourists between the two nations by the removal of a good many foolish obstructions; and will he see to it, therefore, that favourable consideration is given when this matter is considered?
§ Viscount CRANBORNEYes, Sir, sympathetic consideration will be given to the whole question.