HL Deb 16 June 1997 vol 580 c99WA
The Earl of Carlisle

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will review the manning of the British Embassies in Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius in the light of increasing diplomatic, economic and cultural activities between the United Kingdom and the Baltic States; and when the personnel will be in place in the respective embassies.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean)

We recognise the importance of our strengthening bilateral relations with the Baltic States. We keep staffing at Posts under constant review, taking into account current priorities and available resources. Her Majesty's Government are committed to conducting a central spending review and departmental reviews to assess how to use resources better. We cannot prejudge the outcome.