At some stage during an MoD job, and working closely with the then FCO, I became aware of an issue within that department regarding the tradition of departing Ambassadors submitting candid valedictory telegrams. These tended to be somewhat critical of the attention paid to this country or that, and of HMG’s fundamental lack of understanding of various regional economic or geopolitical factors. The practice was quashed during this period. I have no idea if it has sprung up again. This foreword is not intended as one of those, but it is my last. I am very pleased to say we have found my successo…
