HC Deb 14 April 1949 vol 463 cc3033-4
52. Mr. J. Langford-Holt

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has yet appointed a commercial representative to the State of Israel.

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Mayhew)

Yes, Sir. A First Secretary (Commercial) has been appointed to the staff of the United Kingdom Representative in Israel, and it is planned that he shall proceed to Tel Aviv with the other members of Mr. Helm's staff as soon as possible.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Could the hon. Gentleman tell us the name of this representative.

Mr. Mayhew

Mr. Stoodley.

Sir P. Hannon

What are the qualifications of this gentleman who has been appointed? Does he know conditions in Israel?

Mr. Mayhew

So far as I am aware, the person concerned has a record of long and reliable service in the Foreign Service.

Dr. Segal

Would my hon. Friend also consider the sending out of a commercial delegation to extend friendly relations with the State of Israel in order that this country may not be pushed to the bottom of the queue in this part of Palestine?

Mr. Mayhew

That is another question.

Mr. W. R. Williams

Will my hon. Friend give the House an assurance that there has been no phonetic error in the name which he has transmitted to the House this morning?

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Has this gentleman sufficient contact men at his disposal?