HC Deb 30 March 1911 vol 23 c1488
Earl WINTERTON

asked whether a complete knowledge of French was required of candidates for admission into the Foreign Office; and if any examination was undergone by them?

The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir E. Grey)

A thorough knowledge of French is required of candidates for the Foreign Office. Their examination is conducted by the Civil Service Commissioners.

Earl WINTERTON

asked how many English-French interpreters were employed at the Foreign Office?

Sir E. GREY

English-French translations are dealt with by members of the ordinary staff of the Foreign Office, and no special interpreters are employed.

Mr. REMNANT

In the event of the Parliamentary representatives of the Foreign Office being unable to speak French or any other foreign language, are special interpreters attached to them?

Sir E. GREY

No, they use the ordinary channels.