§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1), in view of the fact that agreements have been made between the German Democratic Republic and West Germany at government level which are recognised by international law, if he will now conduct discussions with the German Democratic Republic on possible trading, cultural and other agreements; and if he will make a statement;
(2) in view of the fact that certain Scandinavian Governments meet representatives of the German Democratic Republic informally at ministerial level, whether Her Majesty's Government will now do the same.
§ Mr. Anthony RoyleThe recently concluded agreements between the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic are only part of the Federal Government's efforts to achieve a normalisation of relations with East Germany. While these efforts continue, it would be inappropriate for Her Majesty's Government to take any step which might enhance the international status of the German Democratic Republic and prejudice their success.
424WAlthough there are no official relations between this country and the German Democratic Republic, this has not prevented the satisfactory development of private trading and other contacts of mutual benefit.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will define the passport and entry arrangements of German Democratic Republic citizens to the United Kingdom; if he will define the meaning of the official stamp non-identified in this context; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. KershawIt is normal international practice not to visa passports issued by the authorities of States which are not recognised. Passports issued by the East German authorities are therefore not acceptable for United Kingdom visa and immigration purposes. Holders of such passports are granted visas on declarations of identity in lieu of passports issued by British consular officers. Visas are granted and travellers from East Germany are admitted to the United Kingdom in accordance with the published immigration rules.