Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 29 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 June 2026. It was answered by Seema Malhotra (Labour) on Monday, 8 June 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Diplomatic Service: Public Appointments

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she will consider the potential merits of inviting the Foreign Affairs Committee in pre-appointment scrutiny of all political appointees to ambassadorial positions.

Answer

I refer the Hon Member to the numerous occasions when these issues have been addressed in recent months, including the Foreign Secretary's appearance before the Foreign Affairs Committee on 15 December 2025, and her answers at the last session of departmental oral questions on 21 April. The Hon Member will also be aware that Sir Adrian Fulford is conducting a review of the National Security Vetting system to ensure lessons are learned from the policy and process weaknesses highlighted by the Mandelson case.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
4791
Session
2026-27
Related items
Topical Questions
Tuesday, 21 April 2026
Oral questions
House of Commons
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Diplomatic service Public appointments Parliamentary scrutiny Foreign Affairs Committee
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk