HC Deb 11 March 1952 vol 497 cc1257-8
50. Mr. Kenneth Thompson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that full-rate charges are made in most Continental countries for fares and accommodation for children over 10 years of age; and if he will therefore make the currency allowance at the £25 limit available for travellers aged 10 and over.

The Minister of State for Economic Affairs (Sir Arthur Salter)

I appreciate the point raised by my hon. Friend, but I am afraid that it is impossible to make any concession in the present circumstances.

Mr. Thompson

Is my right hon Friend aware that the present limit for children is causing very great concern both to parents and to educationalists, who find themselves unable to take children or parties of children abroad at a time when it would do the most good? Will he look at the matter again?

Sir A. Salter

I have gone into this question with very considerable care and in consultation with representatives of the organisations concerned. I fully realise the point made by my hon. Friend, that it is not usual to make reductions of charges to children to as high an age as 15.

Mr. Ede

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Ministry of Education, and with active teachers who have found themselves gravely handicapped in arranging school parties for the holidays this year, before he reaches his final decision?

Sir A. Salter

Yes, Sir. I have taken into account the point made by the right hon. Gentleman. I fully realise that the age of 15 is high for this distinction, but I also realise, as I think the House will in a very short time, the reasons which have been in our minds in considering no concession possible at this moment.