To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs for what reason the practice by retiring ambassadors of sending valedictory telegrams has ceased. (129829)

[holding answer 29 March 2007]: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is constantly modernising the way we operate. All Heads of Mission overseas are encouraged to provide their frank and confidential advice on policy and management issues at all stages of their posting, not just at the end. Modern communications allow this to be done in a more targeted way than the traditional valedictory telegram.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if she will place in the Library a copy of the valedictory telegram sent by Ambassador Roberts on the conclusion of his ambassadorship to Italy and his retirement from the diplomatic service. (129850)

[holding answer 29 March 2007]: Sir Ivor Roberts provided advice in his valedictory telegram on a confidential basis. Placing a copy of this telegram in the Library of the House would be likely to inhibit the frank and confidential provision of advice.