§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs why Her Majesty's Government agreed to the replacement of British passports in 1978; and whether this decision is subject to the approval of Parliament.
§ Mr. HattersleyHer Majesty's Government have not agreed to replace British passoports by European passports. The European Council agreed that national passports issued by member States should be in a uniform style, and such passports may be issued as from 1978. As this is a matter within the discretion of the Executive, it is not subject to the approval of Parliament.
§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if, following the decision of the EEC Ministers on 2nd December to introduce 60W European passports in 1978, consideration is being given by the EEC to introduce a European policy on immigration.
§ Mr. HattersleyThe problems arising from proposals to harmonise the conditions of entry into, and abode, in the member States are being studied, but are recognised as formidable.
§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what implications, if any, the decision to introduce European passports will have for holders of United Kingdom and Colonies passports.
§ Mr. HattersleyHolders of current United Kingdom passports will not be affected. Possession of the EEC style uniform passport when it is introduced will demonstrate that the holder is a national of a member State of the European Community.