§ Mr. George Gardinerasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make representations to the French authorities to abolish the card required for British arrivals by air, in view of the fact that the card is not required for those entering France by surface.
§ Sir Ian GilmourThe requirement to complete landing cards applies equally to all foreign nationals arriving in France by air. Internal security arrangements are a matter for the French Government. I do not, therefore, consider that it would be proper for me to make representations.
The requirement to complete landing cards is, however, contrary to the spirit of European Community directives on the freedom of movement of nationals of member States. I understand that the Commission of the European Communities is actively encouraging both France, and Italy—where the same requirement exists—to discontinue this formality.