HC Deb 01 June 1871 vol 206 c1372
MR. M'ARTHUR

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether it is true that within the last few days Dr. William Stewart, who was concerned as a principal in the recent Paraguayan trial at Edinburgh, has sent his credentials to the Foreign Office as Minister for Paraguay; and, whether, under the circumstances, Her Majesty's Government is prepared to recognize him in that capacity?

VISCOUNT ENFIELD

Sir, a short time since Dr. Stewart presented a letter to the Foreign Office, conferring upon him in somewhat vague terms a diplomatic character as confidential agent of the Republic of Paraguay. He was informed that, being a British subject, he could not be received in any diplomatic character whatever; but if he were named Consul for Paraguay he would be recognized as such, and communicated with accordingly.