§ Andrew MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) how much was paid for the hire of morning suits and related attire on the occasion of UK male ambassadors receiving their credentials from Her Majesty the Queen in the past three years; [118884]
(2) if he will relax the rule requiring all male UK ambassadors to wear morning suits on the occasion of their receipt of new credentials from Her Majesty the Queen; and if he will make a statement. [118885]
§ Mr. StrawThe total payment for the hire of morning suits and related attire for UK male ambassadors receiving their credentials from Her Majesty the Queen in the past three years was £3,758.95.
Prompted by my hon. Friend's questions, I asked for a review of the policy. The Queen has confirmed that she would be content for men to wear lounge suits when they have their audience on being appointed a Head of Mission. This brings the Foreign and Commonwealth Office into practice with other audiences given by Her Majesty. This change has immediate effect.
I am most grateful to my hon. Friend for raising this matter with me.