Mr. DOYLE(by Private Notice) asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware of the great hardship and inconvenience to the citizens of Newcastle-on-Tyne caused by the closing of the American Consulate in that city; whether he is aware that all persons requiring passports are now, and have been for some months past, obliged to go to Hull to obtain them; and whether he can take immediate steps to bring about an amicable settlement of the unfortunate disagreement between the Foreign Office and the United States Government?
§ Mr. McNEILLI am quite aware of the circumstances mentioned by the hon. 3154 Member, and much regret the inconvenience caused to citizens of Newcastle-on-Tyne. Proposals for an amicable settlement were made to the United States Government last month, but were not accepted; and the question is now under further consideration with a view to settlement being arrived at.