HC Deb 01 April 1957 vol 568 cc7-8W
82. Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in the recent discussions with the Spanish Government, the opportunity was taken to obtain an easing of the Spain-Gibraltar restrictions; and with what results.

Mr. Ian Harvey

If the hon. Member is referring to the representations made to the Spanish Government about visa difficulties at the Gibraltar frontier, these were confined to that particular issue. I described their outcome in my reply on 25th March. The position about the other restrictions remains as stated in my right hon. and learned Friend's reply to the hon. Member and the hon. Member for Erith and Crayford (Mr. Dodds) on 27th February.

86. Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the new type of visa which is only valid for three entries per quarter at La Linea discriminates against British subjects resident in Gibraltar compared with British subjects in this country who may enter for an unlimited number of times at all other frontiers; and what further action he will take regarding this discrimination.

Mr. Ian Harvey

There is no discrimination against British subjects by reason of residence. There is discrimination against the Spanish frontier with Gibraltar as against other Spanish frontiers. The Spanish Government have explained this discrimination by asserting that La Linea is not equipped for dealing with the normal entry and exit of travellers and that the approved frontier post for this area is at Algeciras.