HC Deb 31 July 1916 vol 84 cc2039-40
6. Mr. R. McNEILL

asked the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the position of Vice-Consul for Sweden in Glasgow is held by the clerk to the lieutenant of the city of the county of Glasgow, who is also official secretary to the Lord Provost, and that the office of the Vice-Consul is in the City Chambers; and, having regard to the fact that Glasgow is one of the most important munitions areas in the country, whether he is satisfied that the position occupied by the Vice-Consul for Sweden is free from objection in the national interests?

The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. Tennant)

The position in question is held by a responsible official who has not only the advantage, of being well known but has the added advantage of being a native Scotsman. He holds the offices referred to in the first part of the question and in that capacity has accommodation in the City Chambers. As Vice-Consul for Sweden he has private premises elsewhere. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr. WATT

May we take it that the right hon. Gentleman has no objection to this particular gentleman holding this particular Vice-Consulship?

Mr. TENNANT

There is no objection.