HC Deb 19 November 1947 vol 444 c1117
5. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what are the duties of the Military Attaché at Moscow; and what expenditure is involved in maintaining this office.

Mr. Mayhew

The duties of the Military Attaché at Moscow are to act as the senior military representative of His Majesty's Government in the Soviet Union and as advisor on military matters to His Majesty's Ambassador. I am informed by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War that the expenditure involved in maintaining the office of the Military Attaché is £11,500 per annum.

Mr. Hughes

In view of the unfortunate incident which occurred in Moscow in connection with this officer, will my hon. Friend consider withdrawing him—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."]—and sending to Moscow somebody who would be more likely to bring about understanding with the Soviet Union?

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir. I entirely reject the suggestion that our Military Attaché was in any way at fault in the incident.