§ 65. Major Colfoxasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many members of the diplomatic service are married to ladies who are not of British birth; and whether any rules exist or are contemplated which would necessitate the resignation of a British diplomat who marries a foreigner?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Viscount Cranborne)Twenty-six members of the permanent establishment of the Foreign Office and Diplomatic Service are married to ladies who were not British subjects at the time of their marriage. The answer to the second part of the question is No, Sir.
§ Major ColfoxIs it not the case that the United States of America have put similar regulations into effect in their diplomatic service, and if they do it, why should not we?
§ Viscount CranborneI believe it is a fact that the United States of America have done so, but I do not see that that is any reason why we should do it.
§ Mr. Anstruther-GrayIs it not all to the good that the relations between British diplomats and foreigners should be as intimate as possible?
§ Mr. ThorneDoes not the Noble Lord think that a man has a right to choose his own wife?