HC Deb 13 July 1953 vol 517 cc1706-7
33. Mr. N. Macpherson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what proportion of Her Majesty's diplomatic representatives in the Middle East speak Arabic fluently.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Of the Foreign Service staff in diplomatic posts in Arabic-speaking countries about 40 per cent. are fluent Arabic speakers. Special measures have been taken by my right hon. Friend to improve upon that proportion.

Mr. Macpherson

Whilst I am gratified that my right hon. and learned Friend attaches importance to this matter, may I ask whether he is prepared to make use of the services of Arabic-speaking men who have had experience in British Government service in the Sudan and have become available?

Mr. Lloyd

That is what in fact is already done.