§ 15. Sir HENRY CRAIKasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to recent attacks on Mr. A. Parker, of the Foreign Office, and other members of the Civil Service; and whether His Majesty's Government intend to take any action in the matter?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Balfour)Yes, Sir, my attention has been called to these attacks in the Press. They are, in my opinion, quite unjustified both in substance and in method. Those who are attacked are in no way responsible for questions of policy, and have only loyally carried out the instructions given to them. They are further, as is well known, debarred from replying to those who attack them. As Mr. Parker has been mentioned by name, it is right to say that his services, particularly during the War, have been of 1069 great value, and he is an able and a devoted public servant. I do not think, however, that any action on the part of His Majesty's Government is necessary, as I cannot believe that attacks of this kind receive any general support.