§ Baroness Hilton of Eggardonasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many serious offences were alleged to have been committed in 1998 by persons entitled to immunity. [HL3904]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanFrom a community of over 17,500 persons entitled to immunity, 21 alleged serious offences by such persons were drawn to the attention of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1998. "Serious offences" are defined in accordance with the 1985 White Paper on Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges, i.e. as any offence that would in certain circumstances carry a maximum penalty of six months' or more imprisonment. The majority of alleged serious offences in 1998 involved driving under the influence of drink and shoplifting.