§ Dr. A. Thompsonasked the Lord Privy Seal how many established posts have been abolished under the 10 per cent. economy cut in overseas administrative expenditure; and in which embassies, legations, consulates and permanent delegations these reductions in establishment have taken place.
§ Mr. P. ThomasMeasures to reduce Foreign Service expenditure overseas are still under examination and it is not yet possible to say exactly what economies in the United Kingdom-based staff will have to be made, nor which Missions or Consular posts will be affected. It seems likely that the strength of the Foreign Service abroad will have to be reduced by approximately 100 established posts of various grades down to and including shorthand-typists, and that these economies will affect Foreign Service establishments in forty countries.
§ Dr. A. Thompsonasked the Lord Privy Seal what amount is being saved 122W under the 10 per cent. economy cut by reduction in foreign allowances payable to members of the Foreign Office in posts abroad.
§ Mr. P. ThomasMy noble Friend has under consideration at present reductions in the representational expenditure of British diplomatic Missions and Consulates as part of the Foreign Service's contribution to economies in overseas expenditure. It is not yet possible to say exactly how much can be saved in this way.