HC Deb 08 December 1955 vol 547 cc549-50
31. Mr. de Freitas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what changes he has made in the immigration regulations in respect of aliens who no longer require a visa for entry to this country but who ask at our consulates abroad for some indication as to their chances of being refused admission on arrival here.

Major Lloyd-George

There has been no change of practice. An alien who does not require a visa to enter the United Kingdom but seems to a visa issuing officer to be unlikely to be given leave to land would normally be so advised.

Mr. de Freitas

Since nowadays an alien from many countries does not need to have a visa and is under the liability of being refused admission when he gets here, could not the regulations be changed so that he can be given that advice when he applies to the consul?

Major Lloyd-George

The ultimate decision for leave to land in the United Kingdom is a matter for the immigration officer and the visa officers are circularised and asked to help in any way they can. The very fact that a visa issuing officer says he thinks he may probably get in is not sufficient to let him in, although it will be a great help to the immigration officer when he examines him. The decision must rest with the immigration officer.