§ 2. Mr. Cooper-Keyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the proposition to maintain regular seasonal day trips to the French coast towns has the support of the local authorities of Hastings; and when he will be able to make a statement as to his conversations with other Departments concerned directed towards lifting the passport requirements.
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Major Gwilym Lloyd-George)I have not received any communication from the Hastings Borough Council about this matter, but I do not doubt that the South Coast local authorities directly concerned support the continuance of day cruises to the Continent. The representations that have been made about the resumption of no-passport excursions to the Continent are under consideration, but I am not at present able to say when I shall be in a position to make a statement.
§ Mr. AwberyIs the Minister aware that the necessity to produce day passports is killing the cross-Channel industry? Ships are built for this specific purpose, and it is stopping that industry as well. Will he see whether something 1088 can be done to provide day passports on the ships, to be given up before people land in the evening when they return home?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeI cannot add anything to what I have already said. This matter is under consideration. There are tremendous difficulties, particularly with regard to the matter to which the hon. Member has referred.
§ Mr. Cooper-KeyWill my right hon. and gallant Friend hasten a decision on this matter, in view of the seasonal planning?