§ Mr. Tebbitasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, in cases where persons are appointed as ambassadors from outside the Diplomatic Service, in what way the period of such appointments is agreed; and what provisions are made for compensation in the event of such an office being prematurely terminated.
§ Dr. OwenThere is no standard period for which persons appointed as ambassadors from outside the Diplomatic Service are appointed. The term of appointment is agreed in the same way as that for any other contract appointment in the Diplomatic Service, subject to a maximum of five years. It is normally subject to a short period of notice from either side. Provision for compensation in the event of premature termination of an appointment depends on the terms of the contract in each individual case.
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§ Mr. Tebbitasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs upon whose advice Her Majesty appoints ambassadors.
§ Dr. OwenOn mine. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister is consulted on all senior appointments.