§ Mr. Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what proposals he has for the future of the consulate in Gothenburg, Sweden; and what representations he has received that it should remain open.
§ Mr. RentonAs part of the package of measures which my right hon. and learned Friend announced to the House on 22 November 1984 the British consulate in Gothenburg, Sweden is to be closed. Arrangements are in hand to appoint an honorary consul, who will be assisted by one locally engaged member of staff on a full-time basis.
509WWe have received a number of representations that the consulate should remain open. These have come largely from the city authorities in Gothenburg and from Swedish business men.
§ Mr. Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the number of staff currently in post at the consulate in Gothenburg, Sweden; what was the total cost of this post in the 12-month period most readily identifiable; and what was the income received in fees or other charges.
§ Mr. RentonThe consulate currently has one United Kingdom-based officer and three locally-engaged employees (one part-time). The cost of the post in the 12 months ending 31 March 1984 was £46,146. Consular, passport and visa fees received in the same period totalled £574.18; postage and telex fees totalled £245.57.