HC Deb 17 July 1919 vol 118 cc575-6
12. Sir S. HOARE

asked whether a Consul-General has been appointed to New York?

Colonel Sir HAMAR GREENWOOD (Department of Oversea Trade)

I regret I cannot definitely announce the date of the appointment of the new Consul-General for New York I hope to do so at an early date.

Sir S. HOARE

We realise that the delay in giving the announcement is not due to the hon. Gentleman. Will he give an undertaking to make an announcement on Monday next?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

It is impossible for me to say definitely that an announcement will be made next Monday. I appreciate the fact that it is not due to me that there is any delay. As soon as the announcement can be made, it will be made. We are now in negotiation with a distinguished gentleman, and we hope he will satisfy the demands of this very high and important position.

Sir S. HOARE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this question has been asked two or three times a week since last year? Can he reconsider the answer which he has given and promise definitely to answer on Monday next?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I can quite understand that this is a matter of vital importance, and nobody appreciates it more than I do, because no one in this House knows New York and America better than I do. It is impossible for me to speak for the Foreign Secretary, who has the ultimate approval of any appointment.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the Foreign Secretary has been very dilatory in this matter?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I was not aware of that.

Sir S. HOARE

I beg to give notice that I will put this question on Monday next.

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