§ Mr. Goldieasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any arrangements exist whereby the names of British civilians abroad who become casualties through hostile air activity are reported to his Department by the British consular representatives concerned; and whether notification thereof is sent to the next of kin of such casualties in this country when the names and addresses of such next of kin are known?
§ Mr. ButlerIn the course of their duties consular officers would report to the Foreign Office all cases coming to their knowledge where British subjects in their district had been killed or seriously injured as the result of enemy action. If necessary and possible, steps would be taken to notify the next of kin. It will, however, be appreciated that in certain circumstances a consul might not find it possible to obtain details of casualties or to communicate with the relatives.