HC Deb 08 March 1926 vol 192 cc1905-6
58. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the ever-growing importance of the Argentine Republic and its close association with this country, he will consider the suggestion of raising the status of the British representative at Buenos Ayres from that of a Minister to an Ambassador?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

This matter has been under recent and careful review, but His Majesty's Government are unaware of any fresh political reason for modifying the principle which has hitherto guided their action, in such questions.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Does not the hon. Gentleman realise that this would be very pleasing to the people of the Argentine, who feel that they ought, at any rate, to be on the same basis as their great neighbours in the North?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I think the general principle one ought to follow in such a case is whether the particular country plays a leading part in international affairs rather than whether it happens to be of commercial importance.

59. Sir F. HALL

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the extensive British interests in the Argentine and the volume of trade carried on between the two countries, he will consider as to raising to the dignity of an Embassy the legation representing His Majesty's Government; whether he is aware that each of the other great Powers represented there have ambassadorial representation; and has he received any communication from the British Chamber of Commerce there in regard to this matter?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

In reply to the first part of the question, I would refer the hon and gallant Member to the reply I have just given, to my hon. Friend the Member for Acton (Sir H. Brittain). With regard to the second part, my hon. and gallant Friend is mistaken in thinking that all the Great Powers are represented by Ambassadors. The answer to the third part is that the Foreign Office has received a communication on the subject which it is understood was addressed to them on the suggestion of the British Chamber of Commerce at Buenos Aires.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Are the British residents in the Argentine prepared to meet some of the additional expense involved?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I would like notice of that question.

Sir F. HALL

What additional expense would be involved?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

It is not merely a question of expense.

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