§ Mr. RedwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs in what countries the UK relies on EU diplomatic representation; and what plans he has to rely on EU representation in two years' time. [134309]
§ Mr. MacShaneThe United Kingdom's diplomatic representation overseas is carried out by British embassies, British High Commissions and British Consulates.
European Commission delegations currently represent the EU overseas in areas of Commission competence—external trade, European external assistance and some external aspects of Justice and Home Affairs.
The Inter Governmental Conference will consider proposals for Commission delegations to take on additional responsibilities to complement and work alongside national representations. No conclusions have yet been reached.