§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government regarding the attendance by members of Her Majesty's Diplomatic Service at funerals of, or memorial services for, political prisoners in foreign States.
§ Dr. Owen:There is no general policy regarding the attendance by members of Her Majesty's Diplomatic Service, in their official capacity, at funerals of, or memorial services for, political prisoners 847W in foreign States. Whether or not such attendance would be appropriate is decided individually, taking into consideration the circumstances of each particular case.
There would normally be no restriction on members of the Diplomatic Service attending such funerals or memorial services in their private capacity if they wished, provided that the private nature of their attendance was made clear.