Viscountess Davidsonasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he will take steps to facilitate the visits of British industrialists who desire to proceed overseas for the purpose of reestablishing overseas trade.
§ Mr. H. JohnstoneYes, Sir. It has been possible, particularly within the last two months, to arrange for the issue of exit permits and provision of transport facilities to a considerable number of business men desiring to proceed overseas to renew contact with export markets. Recently many export groups and trade associations have been informed of the readiness of my Department to consider applications made for exit permits with this object in view. Transport and other conditions do not permit of equal facility for travel to all countries which business men would like to visit. I am, however, anxious that the fullest use should be made of the facilities available.
The Noble Lady was informed on the 27th September of the position as regards travel to countries still the scene of military operations or under military administration. But even in these cases my Department is prepared to receive applications with particulars of the grounds upon which they are made, in order that, as soon as conditions make travel possible, the delay involved in considering applications for the first time may be avoided.