HC Deb 13 July 1953 vol 517 c1703
26. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when the British High Commissioner in Germany is to be given the personal rank of Ambassador; and when similar status is to be conferred on the German Chargé d'Affaires in London.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Sir Ivone Kirkpatrick was given the personal rank of Ambassador on 6th July. The German Federal Government have also conferred the personal rank of Ambassador on Dr. Schlange-Schoeningen.

Mr. Bellenger

While this seems to be a step in the direction of renewing more normal relations between the two countries, can the right hon. and learned Gentleman say whether this is purely an improvement only in the personal status of these two individuals or whether it has more far-reaching implications?

Mr. Lloyd

It is an improvement in the personal status of the two representatives referred to. It does not affect the status of their missions.

Sir H. Williams

What really is meant by the words "personal rank of Ambassador"? Is the man an Ambassador or not an Ambassador?

Mr. Lloyd

I think he enjoys the personal rank of Ambassador.