HC Deb 29 October 1952 vol 505 cc1914-5
21. Lieut.-Colonel Hyde

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made towards concluding visa abolition agreements between Her Majesty's Government and those European countries which still require British visitors to them to be in possession of visas on their passports.

Mr. Nutting

Visa abolition agreements have been concluded with the following Western European countries: Belgium, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland (and Liechtenstein). An agreement has recently been concluded with Turkey and comes into operation on 9th November. Negotiations with the Federal German authorities are at present in progress with a view to the conclusion of an agreement.

Lieut.-Colonel Hyde

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that besides the question of personal convenience to travellers, which is important, the conclusion of these agreements represents a definite step forward towards European unity, and will he undertake to press on with the conclusion of such agreements with the remaining countries?

Mr. Nutting

Yes, Sir.