HC Deb 12 December 1944 vol 406 cc1064-5W
Mr. R. Duckworth

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department how many applications from business executives wishing to visit France are at present being held up; and what is the present daily average of departures for France of such persons.

Mr. Johnstone

From 19th August to 8th December, 519 formal applications have been made to my Department by business men for authority to proceed to France. My Department has sponsored 225 and the remainder, some of which are very recent, are being examined. It is understood that approximately half of those sponsored have now received their exit permits. Of these 23 have secured their visas from the French Consulate-General and have travelled to France.