§ Mr. Marlowasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will set out the legal authority under which he proposes to introduce a change in the colour of the United Kingdom passport and to superimpose the words "European Communities" on the front cover above the words "United Kingdom"; and, if new legislation is required, whether this will be subject to parliamentary procedure.
§ Sir Ian GilmourUnited Kingdom passports are issued under the Royal Prerogative, which is exercised by the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. A change in the format of our passports does not require new legislation.