HC Deb 30 November 1953 vol 521 cc757-8
39. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what further consideration has been given to the desirability of securing the international abolition of visas; with what countries negotiations in respect of the abolition of visas Her Majesty's Government is now negotiating; and what countries do not now require a visa for British nationals.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Barry (Mr. Gower) on 13th July for a list of the countries in Europe to which British subjects may travel without visas. Outside Europe, the only country with which a visa abolition agreement has been concluded is Cuba.

Her Majesty's Government are not at the moment engaged in negotiations with any other countries for the abolition of visas, but they have always in mind the desirability of concluding further agreements.

Mr. Sorensen

Why are Her Majesty's Government not taking further action at this stage? Does the hon. Gentleman not agree that the abolition of visas would be a great contribution to freer travel between one country and another?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Her Majesty's Government have to realise that there are two sides to this question and it is not always possible to get other countries to come to the conference table.