§ Mr. WattsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many serious offences were allegedly committed in 2000 by persons entitled to immunity by virtue of their employment by a diplomatic mission or an international organisation, and by their dependants. [5985]
§ Mr. MacShaneFrom a community of over 19,500 persons entitled to immunity, 17 serious offences, allegedly committed by such persons, were drawn to the attention of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 2000. "Serious offences" are defined in accordance with the 1985 White Paper on Diplomatic Immunities and Privilege—ie as offences that would, in certain circumstances, carry a penalty of 12 months' or more imprisonment.