HC Deb 03 December 1975 vol 901 cc600-1W
Mr. Ridley

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will set out the number of staff. and the total cost in sterling of each embassy and high commission, maintained by the United Kingdom, in 1974–75 and in 1964–65, respectively; and if he will express the totals as a percentage of gross national product in each year.

Mr. Ennals

I regret that it is no longer possible to estimate the cost of individual missions for 1964–65 as accounts records are destroyed after seven years. It will take some time to compile the information required for 1974–75, but I shall write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.