§ 40. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many new attachés have been appointed to foreign governments since 1st June, 1953.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the appointment of Service and civilian specialist attachés to Her Majesty's Diplomatic Missions abroad. Since 1st June, 1953, seven Service attachés have been appointed. During the same period four Service attachés whose appointments Were approved before that date have taken up their appointments. All these appointments have been replacements of officers in existing posts and no new posts have been created.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that recently it was explained that it was the policy of Her Majesty's Government to economise in these different attachés? Is there any good reason why there should be a new Air Attaché appointed at Brussels, where there is already a considerable diplomatic staff?
§ Mr. LloydThere was an Air Attaché at Brussels; he is being replaced at present. In the view of Her Majesty's Government it is necessary to have such an officer at that post.