§ Mr. Richard Pageasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what regulations govern the length of appointment in post overseas.
§ Mr. RentonThe length of appointment in overseas posts is varied according to the circumstances of the post and the grade and function of the officer. Generally, the standard tour length for Diplomatic Service officers of second secretary rank and above is 24 months. There are shorter tour lengths of 18 and 12 months for specified posts. Where the tour length is 24 months, postings normally comprise two tours. At the specified posts officers serve a three-year posting of either two 18-month or three 12-month tours. Postings for other staff may be shorter.