Overseas Representation

22.

Mr. Robert Cooke
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what effect the present cuts in public expenditure will have on the representation of the United Kingdom abroad; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Blaker
The Diplomatic Service will be reduced by a further 1 per cent.  by manpower cuts announced last May. As my right hon. Friend the Minister of State told the House on 21st December—[Vol. 866, c.460.]—the latest cuts do not specify a reduction in expenditure on overseas services, though all programmes are subject to continuing review.