asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will rearrange the timing of payment of overseas allowance so that advances to Foreign Office staff for the purchases of cars do not attract tax under Chapter II of the Finance Act 1976.

My right hon. Friend's Department will be discussing with the Civil Service Department the implications of Chapter II, Section 66 of the Finance Act 1976 for Diplomatic Service staff on posting overseas. I shall ensure that my hon. Friend's helpful suggestion is taken into account.