21 April 2006
Foreign Office consular staff dealing with emergencies abroad have been praised by MPs.
The Public Accounts Committee said the Foreign and Commonwealth Office had improved its crisis management facilities since 2001.
Chair Edward Leigh said: 'Consular staff had to deal in 2005 with nine major overseas emergencies — and showed tremendous dedication in helping British nationals in distress.'
But he pointed out that there were still gaps in the service. 'The department should set minimum standards of service.'
He added: 'Where our nationals are in trouble as a result of their own irresponsibility, the FCO should… charge them for its services.'
PFapr2006
