Mr. Neubertasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when the building of a new British Embassy at Brasilia is likely to commence; what action is being taken to dispose of property in Rio de Janeiro surplus to requirements; and what conditions are being placed on its disposal.
§ Mr. EnnalsA professional team from the Property Services Agency has been appointed to design and build a chancery and residence at Brasilia. The team is now visiting Brazil and when it returns it will be known when building is likely to start. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment is aware of the need to move the embassy from its300W present temporary accommodation as soon as possible.
The Property Services Agency is now arranging to sell the Ambassador's former residence in Rio de Janeiro. The agency is also purchasing a pied-à-terre for the Ambassador to use on his necessarily frequent visits to Rio de Janeiro.