HL Deb 20 October 1987 vol 489 cc109-10WA
The Marquess of Ailesbury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have taken steps to ensure that a serious dispute regarding the diplomatic status of a foreign national is less likely to occur in London than in Paris.

Lord Trefgarne

The diplomatic status of an individual depends upon whether he or she has been validly appointed as a member of the staff of a diplomatic mission. We announced in the 1985 White Paper on Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges that we had revised and strengthened our requirements and procedures on the notification of such staff. Missions are well aware of these. Disputes are rare and would, if need be, have to be resolved in the courts.