Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, whether educational background is considered in the selection process for High Commissioners and Ambassadors.

The selection process for High Commissioners and Ambassadors is based on clear, transparent criteria, namely candidates’ abilities, as demonstrated by prior performance, and their knowledge and skills. Candidates are not required to disclose their educational background, and academic qualifications are not a criterion for selection. Where candidates have completed a course of study in a field relevant to a post for which they are applying, they may choose to disclose this as part of demonstrating their relevant knowledge.