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Written question asked by Lord Radice (Labour) on Wednesday, 22 May 2019, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 June 2019. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Thursday, 6 June 2019 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

EU Countries: Embassies

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government what upgrades and enhancements they have made to (1) staffing, and (2) facilities, at embassies in the EU27 nations since the EU referendum.

Answer

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has created approximately 550 EU Exit roles in the UK and overseas. We have used these roles to strengthen our diplomatic network in the UK and across Europe so that we are better able to represent and promote British interests and engage with our European partners in support of a successful EU Exit. In addition, other staff are also engaged on EU Exit planning as part of their wider responsibilities. We continue to keep staffing levels under constant review to ensure that they are appropriate to deliver the Government's objectives.

We undertake regular reviews of our estate portfolio around the world. This is a continuing process to ensure the estate is fit for purpose and offers the best value for money in delivering Her Majesty's Government objectives. No major estates projects were undertaken because of the result of the referendum. A number of Posts have carried out small changes to their office layouts as well as routine maintenance.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL15933
Session
2017-19
Subjects
EU countries Staff Embassies Brexit
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk