HC Deb 15 April 1981 vol 3 c148W
25. Mr. Shersby

asked the Lord Privy Seal what further representations he has made to the Government of the United States of America to introduce a reciprocal waiver of visas for United Kingdom citizens; and if he is satisfied with the progress made since the reply to the hon. Member for Uxbridge on 24 October 1979, Official Report, column 196.

Mr. Ridley

Representations were made to the new Administration during the visit of my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to Washington in February. In March the State Department introduced into its Appropriations Bill a clause which would allow the United States Secretary of State to waive tourist visas for nationals of some countries, including the United Kingdom. I understand that this clause will now be separately considered by the Judiciary Sub-Committee which has jurisdiction over immigration matters. Hearings will be held shortly. This is a satisfactory sign of progress.