HC Deb 20 June 1955 vol 542 cc1012-3
14. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what arrangements were made for the British Embassy in the recent civil defence exercises in Washington.

Mr. Turton

Her Majesty's Embassy were informed beforehand that the civil defence exercises were designed to test arrangements which included provision for the evacuation of foreign Embassies. It was not considered necessary, however, for the staffs of embassies actually to take part in these preliminary tests.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Joint Under-Secretary aware that, according to the plan for these civil defence exercises, Washington was assumed to be obliterated? Was the British Embassy staff allowed to be left there, and could he tell us how, in certain eventualities, the British Ambassador is to get his instructions from the United States Government?

Mr. Turton

I understand that the United States Government have every confidence that Her Majesty's Ambassador will conform with all arrangements they are making for his protection.