§ 1. Mr. Hall-Caineasked the Prime Minister for what reason it has now been decided that British visas are to be insisted upon in the case of German and Austrian citizens desiring to visit Great Britain; and whether there is any proposal that British subjects should in future obtain German visas before visiting Germany?
12. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Prime Minister for what reasons the British Government are introducing visa restrictions against Austrians travelling to Britain; what instructions in the matter have been isued to British consuls; and whether any difficulties will be put in the way of 844 political and religious refugees escaping from Austria?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)I would refer the hon. Members to the reply given yesterday by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to the hon. and gallant Member for the Central Division of Wandsworth (Colonel Nathan). The necessary instructions have been sent to consuls and passport control officers. I am not aware as yet of any proposal that British subjects should in future obtain German visas before visiting Germany.
§ Mr. RileyDoes the hon. Member not consider that the insistence on such visas may well prevent innocent persons from escaping from Nazi persecution?
§ Mr. ButlerIf the hon. Member will refer to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary he will see that it is necessary, in order to assist refugees coming to this country; and certain organisations in this country dealing with refugees have recognised the necessity for this provision.
§ Mr. ManderWill it not make it difficult for genuine refugees coming to this country to go back to Germany or Austria?
§ Mr. ButlerI would refer the hon. Member to the full statement made by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.