asked the Prime Minister whether arrangements can be made to ensure that during the coming visit of the French President to this country he will be received in two or three of the principal provincial cities as well as in London, with a view to doing everything possible to cement good relations between this country and France?

I understand that, in view of the short duration of the President's visit and of the numerous engagements which have already been made for him, it will, unfortunately, not be possible for him to visit any provincial cities.

Is the Prime Minister aware that there are provincial cities which would welcome a visit from the French President?

I am sure they would, but we have to make allowance for the number of engagements he has already got.