§ 33. Mr. Pentlandasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, on the occasion of his visit to the British Trade Fair in Moscow next month, he will extend an official invitation to Major Yuri Gagarin to visit Great Britain.
§ Mr. MaudlingI understand that those responsible for organising the Soviet Industrial Fair in London are considering inviting Major Gagarin to visit it.
§ Mr. PentlandWould not the right hon. Gentleman agree that an official invitation by him when he is in Moscow would not only reinforce the recognition this country has of the superb courage displayed by this man, but also give our top scientists and technologists an early opportunity of having discussions with him That is very important because, does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that, some day, whether we like it or not, a Britisher will have to travel this road opened by Major Gagarin?
§ Mr. MaudlingI understand that an invitation is being offered. I do not think we should butt in, but certainly everybody will be delighted if such an invitation is extended and accepted.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesIn view of the Home Secretary's recent refusal to allow certain people to come into this country, will the President of the Board of Trade give an assurance that the Home Secretary will not ban Major Gagarin as a prohibited immigrant?