HC Deb 13 March 1950 vol 472 cc722-3
2. Mr. Boothby

asked the Minister of Works whether he is aware that the condition and amenities of our Embassies and Legations abroad are not good enough to ensure reasonable standards of comfort and efficiency, especially in hot climates; and what steps he will take to improve them.

Mr. Stokes

As the hon. Member is aware, I have personally visited many of our Embassies and Legations and I appreciate the need for maintaining a high standard of amenity. The hon. Member may rest assured that my Department is very much alive to these necessities.

14. Mr. Sydney Silverman

asked the Minister of Works whether he will take steps to ensure that the British Embassies to the Soviet Union and Israel are properly equipped.

Mr. Stokes

Yes, Sir, subject to local conditions. I have myself already visited Moscow and shall take the earliest opportunity of visiting Tel Aviv.

Mr. Silverman

While joining with so many other hon. Members in all parts of the House in congratulating my right hon. Friend on his appointment, may I ask him if he will bear in mind that his many friends on this side of the House will expect from him, now that he is Minister of Works, as much energy as he showed when he was only "Minister of Faith"?

Mr. Stokes

I will certainly endeavour to carry out my hon. Friend's adjuration.

Back to