HC Deb 30 November 1927 vol 211 cc475-7
5. Mr. HANNON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is now in a position to inform the House that the provision of appropriate accommodation for the residence and official headquarters of the Embassy at Rio de Janeiro has been approved by His Majesty's Government?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member for Enfield (Colonel Applin) on the 10th instant. Every effort will be made to rectify the present unsatisfactory position as early as possible.

Mr. HANNON

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise how very unsatisfactory the position is; and how degrading it is to the status of this great country that our Ambassador should be housed in a hotel?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I am fully aware—I became aware earlier than the hon. Member—of the unsatisfactory position, but the hon. Member, who is in- terested in the restriction of public expenditure, is rather indiscreet in insisting on public expenditure at the present moment. I cannot make unlimited demands on the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Mr. HANNON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, although I am interested in the restriction of public expenditure, I do not want our Embassies abroad to be a disgrace to our Administration at home?

7. Mr. HANNON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received representations from the British Chamber of Commerce of Sao Paulo and Southern Brazil that, in the interests of British trade in that port of South America, the status of the existing Consulate should be raised to that of a Consulate-General; and what action he proposes to take?

Captain HACKING (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

This question was raised by the Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce of Sao Paulo at a meeting which His Majesty's Ambassador at Rio attended in February last. An Inspector General of Consular Posts is at present in South America and has instructions to report in consultation with His Majesty's Ambassador on the question. When his recommendations are received they will be given careful consideration.

Mr. HANNON

Is it not a matter of great consequence to our prestige in that part of the United States and Brazil that we should take our proper place side by side with other representatives of overseas countries?

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will this change which is outlined involve this country in more expense?

Captain HACKING

I must have notice of that question.

Mr. HANNON

Will the Parliamentary Secretary kindly answer my question?

Captain HACKING

We are always trying to raise the prestige of our officials abroad.

Sir HARRY BRITTAIN

As the city of Sao Paulo, after Rio, is the greatest city in a country larger than the United States, would it not be enormously appreciated by Brazil?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a matter for debate.