HC Deb 30 July 1934 vol 292 cc2265-6
29. Sir ARTHUR SHIRLEY BENN

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will take into consideration the advisability of re-appointing a vice-consul in the port of Mobile, the only seaport in the State of Alabama and one where many British steamers are chartered?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

His Majesty's Vice-Consulate at Mobile was closed after careful consideration in 1932 on the recommendation of His Majesty's Ambassador at Washington and His Majesty's Consul-General at New Orleans. The position was recently reviewed and there appeared to be no grounds for re-opening the Vice-Consulate, but I am once more inviting His Majesty's Ambassador to look into the matter.

Sir A. SHIRLEY BENN

Will consideration be given to statements made by people on the spot who know what is necessary at Mobile and the owners of steamers, who find that a good deal of their employment has been lessened by the fact that the steamers have to go to New Orleans for their ship's papers.

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

I shall be glad to give consideration to any relevant facts.