HC Deb 06 June 1956 vol 553 cc1081-2
37. Mr. Benn

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why women serving in the Foreign Service are dismissed on the occasion of marriage; and if he will bring the practice of his Department into line with other branches of the Civil Service in this respect.

Lord John Hope

There is no question of dismissal. The Foreign Service differs from the home Civil Service in that it normally imposes on its members an obligation to serve abroad at any time. There are obvious difficulties in the way of the fulfilment of this obligation by married women. My right hon. and learned Friend therefore has the power to require the resignation of women foreign servants on marriage, though he may in special circumstances permit them to continue in the Service. This procedure enables my right hon. and learned Friend to consider each case on its merits, and he sees no reason to change it.

Mr. Benn

If foreign service conflicts with married life, surely it should be for the person concerned to decide to resign, or to reach the decision when the foreign posting comes. Is it not rather unjust that the Foreign Service should pursue a policy in this regard different from that in any other Department? Moreover, would not a somewhat more practical and intelligent policy emerge if the staff included married women?

Lord John Hope

I cannot help thinking that when the hon. Member reads my original Answer, he will realise that his supplementary question is not fair or relevant.

Mr. Shinwell

In view of what has happened in recent years at the Foreign Office, would it not be advisable to retain the women and dismiss the men?