HC Deb 20 November 1911 vol 31 cc798-9
Sir HILDRED CARLILE

asked the Secretary for Foreign Affairs whether there are any cases of British Consular officers having transferred themselves to the Consular service of other countries; and, if so, whether he can give the reason for the step?

Mr. ACLAND

I cannot undertake to have the whole archives of the Consular service examined from beginning to end, and therefore cannot be sure of giving an exhaustive answer. I am not aware of any cases of British Consular officers of the salaried Consular service having transferred themselves to the Consular service of other countries. With regard to the unpaid service, I can trace only one case, and I do not know the reasons which prompted the officer concerned to become Consul for a foreign country. The case occurred about twenty years ago.

Sir HILDRED CARLILE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Vice-Consul at Dunkirk has recently transferred his services to the Empire of Germany?

Mr. ACLAND

No, Sir; not at all.

Sir HILDRED CARLILE

Will the hon. Gentleman inquire?

Mr. ACLAND

Certainly.