HC Deb 24 January 1940 vol 356 cc549-50
2. Mr. Boothby

asked the Prime Minister whether steps can now be taken to facilitate travel to France for the ordinary citizens of this country and vice versa?

The Prime Minister

Subject to the necessary limitations which war-time conditions impose on transport facilities, and to security considerations which may arise in any particular case, it is the desire of His Majesty's Government not to place obstructions in the way of British subjects who wish to travel to France. Arrangements will be made to supply reasonable amounts of French currency to individuals who obtain exit permits. His Majesty's Government similarly will welcome French visitors to this country.

Mr. Boothby

While thanking the Prime Minister for his Answer, may I ask whether he will take steps to expedite the granting of visas, or whether steps will be taken in the future, seeing that it somtimes takes days, or even weeks, for perfectly legitimate travellers to obtain exit permits?

The Prime Minister

We shall do all we can.