§ Lord Cheshamasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they intend to continue unchanged the facilities presently extended to diplomats serving abroad to help them with the cost of educating their children at independent boarding schools in the United Kingdom.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean)An independent review of Diplomatic Service allowances, which was carried out last year by Sir Derek Hornby, confirmed the need for allowances for boarding school education. These ensure continuity of education for many Diplomatic Service children. The review recommended some adjustments in the way the allowances are administered. Further detailed work is being carried out on these recommendations.