HC Deb 28 January 1957 vol 563 cc669-70
52. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when the British Consul in Harar last toured the Reserved Area and Haud; upon how many occasions he has done this in the past 12 months; and for what length of time in each instance.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Her Majesty's Consul was unable, owing to shortage of staff, to make any extensive tour of the Reserved Area or the Haud during 1956. He and, during his absence on leave, the Acting Consul visited the areas a total of six times and a further visit, on 21st December, was made by the Vice-Consul. The Consul himself last visited the area on 29th November. The duration of these visits was, in three cases, of one day and, in four cases, of two days. I do not regard this as sufficient. As the shortage of staff has now been remedied, there will be more extensive visiting in 1957.

Mr. Johnson

Bearing in mind the difficult conditions in this area and the need to stiffen British Somali morale on the border, will the right hon. and learned Gentleman agree that the more often our officials go to this area the better?

Mr. Lloyd

I agree with the hon. Member.

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