HL Deb 14 July 1969 vol 304 cc1-2
LORD BROCKWAY

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the first Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions are taking place with the Government of India regarding a revision of the Commonwealth travel agreement.]

THE MINISTER OF STATE, FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE (LORD SHEPHERD)

My Lords, no discussions are in progress, or are contemplated, with the Indian Government regarding any revision of existing arrangements.

LORD BROCKWAY

My Lords, while thanking my noble friend for that reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that deep consideration is taking place in Indian Government circles regarding this issue, arising from the fact that Indians, not only in India but those of Indian origin in East Africa, are finding it difficult to get into this country, and that Indian Government circles are even considering the question of requiring visas from this country? In view of the desirability of good relations with India, is it not desirable that discussions should take place?

LORD SHEPHERD

My Lords, I do not know where my noble friend gets "deep consideration" from. The only news I have had on this matter is an article that appeared in The Times under a dateline "July 2, Delhi". So far as I am aware, there have been no approaches to Her Majesty's Government, and I am not myself expecting one.

LORD BROCKWAY

May I ask my noble friend whether he is aware that, other than The Times, I have certain relationships with India?

LORD SHEPHERD

My Lords, obviously the noble Lord's contacts are greater than mine.

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