HC Deb 05 August 1919 vol 119 cc140-1
1. Lieut.-Colonel Sir S. HOARE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs who was the Minister who had been appointed to the Czecho-Slovak Republic; and who were the political representatives to be sent to Vienna and Sofia?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE, for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Cecil Harmsworth)

My hon. and gallant Friend will realise that the changes produced by the War necessitate a number of new appointments besides those to which he refers. All the various posts have to be considered in relation to each other, and the compilation of a list of the new appointments is an exceedingly complex matter. In point of fact, the list is now practically completed, and my hon. and gallant Friend may rest assured that it-will be made public at the earliest possible moment.

Sir S. HOARE

Does the hon. Gentleman remember that, a fortnight ago, he told me that these appointments had actually been sanctioned and that the names had already been sent to Paris? How is it that a delay of a fortnight has taken place and these names have not yet been sanctioned?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

There have been delays, but certain consents have to be obtained and these are in process of being obtained. I hope in a few days to give the hon. and gallant Member a longer list than he has asked for.

Sir S. HOARE

Would the hon. Gentleman give me this longer list if I put this question down next Tuesday?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I shall endeavour to do so but I cannot give a definite answer.

Sir S. HOARE

Is my hon. Friend aware that he has given me that answer once a week for three months?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Yes. In reference to these appointments to the Diplomatic and Consular service it is most difficult to give complete lists.

Sir S. HOARE

Is my hon. Friend aware that the Armistice has now existed for, I think, six months, and that three-quarters of our Diplomatic posts are still vacant? Is that a satisfactory state of affairs?

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the enormous importance of sending to these new democratic States an entirely different type of man?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I can assure both my hon. and gallant Friends that all these matters receive very serious consideration.