§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the current position within the European Community concerning the harmonisation of visa arrangements; what effect this will have on the current United Kingdom visa arrangements; what representations he has received concerning the effect of such changes on trade and other relations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Charles WardleThe European Commission recently put forward proposals to give effect to article 100c of the treaty of Rome, which provides for the determination of the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of a visa when crossing the external frontiers of the member states. In accordance with the procedures for parliamentary scrutiny of European Community documents, the Commission document was deposited on 18 January, and the Government submitted their explanatory memorandum on 1 February. My right hon. and learned Friend has received no representations concerning the possible effect of the Commission's proposals on trade and other relations.