HL Deb 28 April 1999 vol 600 cc37-8WA
The Earl of Carlisle

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Why they have amalgamated the Foreign and Commonwealth Office departments dealing with Europe into two departments, the first dealing with nations belonging to the European Union and the second dealing with those outside the European Union. [HL2055]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Responsibility for the UK's bilateral relations with our EU partners and responsibility for EU policy has hitherto been handled by two different directorates within the FCO. From June 1999, responsibility will be brought under a single directorate to achieve better coherence.

The Earl of Carlisle

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the new Foreign and Commonwealth Office department dealing with European nations currently outside the European Union will be able to devote more time and energy to matters concerning Estonia, Lativia and Lithuania. [HL2056]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Following the restructuring of the Europe and European Union Commands of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Central European Department will remain responsible for Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. They will continue to be given the keen attention they already receive.