§ Mr. LawsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his estimate is of the change in staff numbers within the FCO between 1999–2000 and 2003–04 (planned); where additional staff will be deployed; and if he will make a statement. [98435]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe Foreign and Commonwealth Office estimates that it will have an additional 553 staff (an increase of 9 per cent.) since 1999–2000. The deployment of the additional staff will be decided after it is clear exactly what funding is available based on the need in the FCO.