§ 2. Mr. Dalyellasked the Lord Privy Seal how many scientific attaches are attached to British missions at present as compared with (a) 1972 and (b) 1977.
§ Mr. HurdAt present we have 11 officers overseas engaged in civil scientific and technological work. In 1972 we had 12 and in 1977 we had 10.
§ Mr. DalyellIs it not a false economy to cut down?
§ Mr. HurdThe hon. Gentleman has beaten his record for brevity. I know that he is disappointed, in particular about the decision over the counsellor in Moscow. We have tried to make sure that the essential work is done there. It is difficult to sort out priorities within our limited resources, but we think that we have struck a fair balance.