HC Deb 21 January 1918 vol 101 cc644-5
8. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the importance of the position of permanent Ambassador at Washington, he will, in considering the qualities demanded by that post, avoid the selection of any man incrusted in official routine or out of sympathy with democratic ideals, and will consequently select from outside the present limits of the Foreign Office a forward-looking man of wide culture and democratic style?

Mr. BALFOUR

I feel sure that when the occasion arises the Prime Minister of the day will take a broad and statesman- like view of all the considerations which should influence the advice he will give to the King.

Mr. WATT

Is it the case that no man can be appointed to such a position as this unless he is in possession of a private fortune of a certain figure—one of the rich?

Mr. BALFOUR

I am not aware of any rule of that sort. If the hon. Member wants further information he had better put a question down.

Mr. LYNCH

Even if it should break with the tradition of the Foreign Office, will the right hon. Gentleman not follow this excellent advice?

Mr. BALFOUR

The advice that I have suggested to the Prime Minister is in exact conformity with the traditions of the Foreign Office.