HC Deb 21 November 1950 vol 481 cc203-4
57. Mr. Heathcoat Amory

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether in the light of the improved dollar exchange position, he is prepared to approve dollar currency allowances for those who wish to visit Canada, other than for purely business purposes.

Mr. Gaitskell

Dollar currency allowances are provided for medical treatment, for higher education in certain cases, and for personal family visits if there are compassionate or hardship grounds. Applications to visit near relatives are accepted if either party is over 60 or in case of serious illness. I am sorry that it is not yet possible to approve dollar allowances for general personal travel in Canada.

Mr. Amory

While recognising the need to date for the severe, stringent restrictions, may I ask whether the Chancellor does not agree that it is an unhappy situation when the people of this country cannot freely visit and make contacts with the people of one of our great fellow Dominions; and does he not agree that that situation should not persist one day longer than is necessary?

Mr. Gaitskell

The hon. Gentleman can be assured that we shall keep this matter continually under review, and, as soon as it is possible to make any relaxation, we shall make it.