HC Deb 24 March 1952 vol 498 cc25-6
52. Mr. Ronald Russell

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps are taken to keep the Passport Office promptly informed of any changes in the regulations governing entry permits into countries overseas.

Mr. Eden

The Passport Office receives information about conditions of entry and residence in countries overseas from a great variety of sources. While every effort is made to keep this information full and up-to-date, it is manifestly impossible for the Passport Office to guarantee its accuracy, and applicants for passport facilities are accordingly advised by means of a pamphlet entitled "Passport and Visa Notes" to make inquiries of the authorities in London of the countries concerned. The pamphlet includes a warning that the particulars given in it are liable to alteration from time to time. I am considering how to ensure that this warning receives greater prominence.

Mr. Russell

Would my right hon. Friend agree that information about British possessions overseas could be accurate and should be available to the Passport Office?

Mr. Eden

Sometimes these matters change. I want the warning to be more firm that they may change.