The Bruce Golding administration has tightened the reins on overseas travel for members of government.

The Finance Ministry has announced that all overseas travel for Cabinet members, ministers of state and parliamentary secretaries will be curtailed, unless approved by the Prime Minister at least seven days before departure.

A document released by the Ministry further states that the request for approval must include the purpose of the trip, the duration, the names of members of the delegation, along with the associated costs.

It also said that requests from members of parliament who wish to travel overseas should be submitted through the Leader of the House of Representatives.

Proposals concerning official overseas trips must take into account the benefit to the country as well as financial constraints, the duration of travel, size of delegation and public perception, said Financial Secretary Sharon Brooks.

The Finance Ministry insists that overseas travel must be in country's interest and directly relate to the ministers' portfolio responsibility.

The new guidelines also stipulate that the Finance Ministry will not consider requests for the release of foreign exchange without evidence of the Prime Minister's approval.

The move forms part of government's efforts to cut expenditure in light of the cash crunch facing the administration.