HC Deb 04 July 1917 vol 95 c1114
13. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is contemplating any change in the organisation of the Diplomatic Service whereby it may be more freely opened to persons of talent, and whether, in consideration of the rapid changes brought about in other spheres of government as a consequence of the stress of war conditions, he-will expedite all these changes?

Lord R. CECIL

Changes in the Diplomatic Service of the nature indicated are in contemplation, but candidates will naturally not be available until after the War.

Sir J. JARD1NE

May I ask whether the Report of the Committee on that subject recommending changes has been considered?

Lord R. CECIL

Certainly it has been very carefully considered. It is the starting-point of all our discussions.

Mr. LYNCH

Is the Noble Lord keeping in view Napoleon's maxim, "La carrière ourerte aux talents"?

Colonel C. LOWTHER

May I ask whether it is not possible now for members of the Diplomatic Service to accept posts in the Foreign Office and vice versâ?

Lord R. CECIL

I cannot answer that offhand either affirmatively or negatively, but that is one of the points which we are considering.