HC Deb 12 July 1979 vol 970 cc256-7W
Mr. Rowlands

asked the Lord Privy Seal when he expects one or more of Her Majesty's diplomatic representatives in San Salvador to return to work.

Mr. Ridley

Very soon.

Mr. Rowlands

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether any specific advice was given to British citizens in San Salvador immediately before all United Kingdom diplomatic staff at the Embassy took leave last weekend; whether he approved the decision that all United Kingdom diplomatic staff should take leave in Salvador last weekend; what nationality are the honorary and honorary vice consul in Salvador; and how much per annum each receives from Her Majesty's Government.

Mr. Ridley

No specific advice was given or needed but the chief warden of the British community and the honorary vice consul were informed of the temporary absence. As always, Ministers are responsible for decisions taken by their Government Departments. The honorary vice consul is British and at his own wish receives no honorarium from Her Majesty's Government; the full time locally-engaged pro-consul, who is handling urgent consular business, is Salvadorean and is employed on a salary scale of approximately £1,200 to £2,500 per annum.

Mr. Rowlands

asked the Lord Privy Seal how many British citizens there are in San Salvador; how many of these art employed directly under technical assistance programmes, or are in receipt of financial assistance from the United Kingdom, and when the new Her Majesty's ambassador to Salvador will be in post.

Mr. Ridley

In May there were estimated to be 200 United Kingdom passport holders and 100 other Commonwealth citizens. Of this number, 13 were employed on our technical co-operation programmes. The British school, which employs some British teachers, receives no financial support from Her Majesty's Government. A new ambassador has not yet been appointed.