§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a 608W statement on entertainment expenses paid to diplomats overseas other than ambassadors; how much was paid in the last convenient period; and what rules apply.
§ Mr. HurdDuring the 12-month period to 31 October 1982, diplomats overseas—other than ambassadors—received £1,869,835 in entertainment expenses.
Entertainment allowances are paid to certain diplomats to cover the cost of official hospitality considered necessary to do their particular jobs overseas effectively. They are accountable and are claimed against expenditure incurred, within ceilings which are regularly reviewed by visiting inspectors. Heads of post co-ordinate entertainment activity and monitor expenditure.