HC Deb 30 June 1919 vol 117 cc600-1
53. Lieut.-Colonel A. MURRAY

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to announce the name of the new British Ambassador to the United States of America?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I regret that I am unable yet to make any announcement.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

As this appointment is to be made, I understand, by the Prime Minister, why does the Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs answer the question? May I ask the Leader of the House whether he remembers that he told me six weeks ago that this appointment was to be made at an early date? If I suggest a name, will he accept it and settle the whole matter?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The appointment does rest with the Prime Minister, but I think it has always been made on the advice of the Foreign Secretary. I may say that several suggestions have been made, but it has not been found possible to get the gentleman we wished to accept the post. If the hon. Member has any one suitable, the Prime Minister will gladly consider it.

Captain ORMSBY-GORE

Is it a fact that it has been very difficult to get anybody to go to America because it is now a dry country?