§ 49. Sir L. Plummerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what procedures have been devised to ensure the speedy issuance of visas to commercial representatives of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and the countries of Eastern Europe wishing to visit this country for the purpose of attending trade fairs.
§ Mr. R. A. Butler:There is a reciprocal understanding between this country and the U.S.S.R. that application should be made to the visa officer at least fourteen days before the person wishes to travel. Similar arrangements apply to the other countries in question. Such applications are always dealt with in this country as a matter of urgency and it would be unusual for a visa not to be granted within this period.