§ 51. Mr. Francis Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many persons are employed on the staff of the British Embassy at Madrid; and what are their functions.
§ Mr. MayhewThe British staff numbers 47. In addition, there are 75 locally engaged employees, most of whom are Spanish nationals. In addition to the usual political staff, the Embassy contains Commercial, Consular and Information Sections. Their functions are those normally assigned to the staffs of His Majesty's Missions at foreign capitals.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerCan my hon. Friend tell me whether His Majesty's Government still consider themselves bound by the Resolution of the United Nations not to increase the staff by re-appointing the Ambassador; and secondly what changes in the composition or methods of the present Spanish Government have taken place since that Resolution was passed, or since my right hon. Friend said in this House that he detested the Franco regime?
§ Mr. MayhewThe answer to the first part of the question is, Yes. Regarding the second part, I am aware of no such changes.
Vice-Admiral TaylorCan the hon. Gentleman say when the Government will end the ridiculous position which they have taken up in sending an Ambassador to Russia and not one to Madrid?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe question only asked how many men were employed. There is nothing about sending an Ambassador.
§ Mr. Anthony NuttingCan the hon. Gentleman tell the House whether the Spanish Ministry for Foreign Affairs still insist on vetting appointments, even of junior members, to the staff of the Embassy, as they once did?
§ Mr. MayhewI am not aware of that.
§ Mr. ErrollAre any members of the staff really Members of Parliament in disguise?