PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Diplomatic Service (11 March 2024)

To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, pursuant to the Answer of 6 March 2024 to Question 16041 on Diplomatic Service, whether his Department has had a policy of instructing British diplomats not to engage with Official Opposition hon. Members since 2010.

Asked by:
Navendu Mishra (Labour)

There is no policy preventing engagement between British diplomats and UK parliamentarians. While posts must prioritise resources for the delivery of HMG business, if a parliamentarian makes a request for support this will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The overseas network aims to provide appropriate support for parliamentarians, including a high-level of support for select committees travelling overseas. As per my previous answer (16041), all engagement with Parliamentarians must adhere to the principle of political impartiality and follow the correct clearance processes as outlined in the Civil Service code and Directory of civil service guidance.

Answered by:
David Rutley (Conservative)
14 March 2024