Visas: Certificates of Sponsorship

Debate between Baroness Williams of Trafford and Lord Geddes

Thursday 13th September 2018 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

At the risk of repeating myself—I will take up the noble Lord’s point about the UK arts and entertainment committee—we are looking for a way around what is creating problems for these artists. We are in no way trying to restrict their entry; we absolutely welcome them.

[Lord Geddes (Con)]

My Lords, what instructions, if any, are given to our embassies and consulates abroad regarding the issuing of visas to these artists?

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

What I can do for my noble friend is check up on the advice that is given, but I am sure we are looking around this issue. I am sure that the advice is clear: we do not want artists who enrich our lives and our society to be impeded in any way.