§ 15. Mr. R. McNEILLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will say how many persons of enemy parentage hold official positions in the Consular service in stations in Allied or neutral countries; and whether it is the intention in future to employ exclusively persons of British birth and nationality in the Consular service?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDThere are no Consular officers in the salaried service of enemy birth. In the unsalaried service there is one unpaid Consul of German birth who was naturalised in 1898. His case was fully considered in 1915–16, and it was decided that his loyalty to this country could not be questioned. Amongst the Proconsuls whose duties are purely notarial there is one German who was naturalised in 1883. His case has also been considered. He has rendered excellent service during the War. With regard to the latter part of my hon. Friend's question, I would refer to the statement made by my Noble Friend in this House on 22nd August, 1916.
§ Mr. McNEILLMay I ask whether the answer he has given covers all persons in official positions in the Consular service?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDAs far as I know, it covers all persons in official positions in the Consular service.
§ Mr. BILLINGDoes that also apply to the Foreign Office itself?