§ 1. Brigadier-General CROFTasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will state the names of the members of Lord Hardinge's Committee to inquire into Consular appointments; how many appointments have been made by this Committee; and how many of those appointed have been personally interviewed?
§ Sir HAMAR GREENWOOD(Department of Oversea Trade): Lord Hardinge's Committee deals exclusively with promotions and transfers within the existing service. The Selections Committee for the Consular Service consists of representatives of the Foreign Office, the Department of Overseas Trade, the Civil Service Commission, the Federation of British Industries, the Associated Chambers of Commerce, and a former member of the Board of Trade. The Committee does not appoint candidates, but recommends them to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs for appointment. Seventy-two have been so recommended, and they have all been interviewed personally by the Committee.
§ Sir R. THOMASDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that Germany's commercial success was due in large measure to her efficient Consular service, and will he give instructions to the Committee that all appointments in future shall be to those people who possess a commercial experience?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODIn answer to that question, I agree with the spirit of 2253 it, but it is the greatest difficulty to get men of successful commercial experience having regard to the comparatively low salary and prospects in the Consular Service.
§ Sir R. THOMASWill the hon. Baronet see that the salary is made adequate, because the commercial prosperity of this country in the future will be due very largely to the efficiency of our Consular Service?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI agree it will be due very largely to the efficiency of our Consular Service. In reference to the increased financial consideration, I hope the hon. Gentleman will address his question to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.