HC Deb 15 April 1954 vol 526 c129W
16. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many German pilots have been granted visas to enter the United Kingdom for training; how long they are allowed to remain here; and what steps are taken verify their bona fides and political records before such visas are granted.

Sir H. Lucas-Tooth

As my hon. Friend the Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs explained in reply to the hon. and learned Member for Aberdeen, North (Mr. Hector Hughes) on 26th January, four German pilots sent here by the Federal Government are receiving instruction from a private firm in this country. They have been allowed to come here for four months. It would not be in the public interest to make any statement about the inquiries made in connection with the consideration of applications for visas.