§ 26. Mr. Keelingasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has seen a printed circular issued by the Passport Control Officer in Berlin stating that his correspondence is overwhelming, and that it is physically impossible for him to answer all letters; and, in view of the many urgent compassionate cases with which this office has to deal, whether he 1780 will arrange for its staff to be strengthened so that letters addressed to it may at least be acknowledged.
§ Mr. MayhewThe staff of the Passport Control Office at Berlin has recently been increased, and it is hoped that it will now be sufficient to deal with current correspondence.
§ Mr. KeelingIs the hon. Member aware that there have been complaints from other Members of the House that it is impossible to get an answer from this officer? It may not be his fault.
§ Mr. MayhewYes, Sir. I agree that there has been delay in the past, but as the staff is being increased steadily we hope the delays will now cease.