§ Mr. Newensasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on British relations with El Salvador in the light of the continuing crisis in that country; and what is the position of British residents there.
§ Mr. RidleySince Her Majesty's embassy in San Salvador was closed in February of this year, diplomatic relations have been conducted through Her Majesty's ambassador in San José who is accredited to El Salvador. There are no plans to change this arrangement. The Salvadorean Government maintain an embassy in London.
The number of British residents in El Salvador is now reduced to approximately 150, most with a long standing connection with the country and with considerable experience of its troubles. We are satisfied they are aware of the implications of present internal developments. Her Majesty's ambassador and his staff in San José are in frequent contact with the honorary consul in San Salvador about the position of British residents.