HC Deb 24 June 1981 vol 7 c121W
16. Mr. Alexander

asked the Lord Privy Seal what progress has been made in the discussions for abolishing visa regulations between the United States of America and the United Kingdom.

Mr. Ridley

Representations were made to the United States Administration during the visit of my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to Washington in February. In March the State Department introduced into its Appropriations Bill a clause which would allow the United States Secretary of State to waive tourist visas for nationals of some countries, including the United Kingdom. I understand that this will now be separately considered by the Judiciary Committee which has jurisdiction over immigration matters. Hearings are expected shortly.