My Department is taking steps to implement the Government’s decision on the expansion of the diplomatic network. This will involve, among other things, consultation with host country authorities, identification of suitable accommodation and making staffing arrangements. Given the wide variety of circumstances involved for each new Mission, I regret that it is not possible to provide a definitive timetable for opening in any particular case. However, I can confirm that it is the Government’s intention that all necessary arrangements will be completed without undue delay so that the new Missions will be fully operational in 2014 or as soon as practicable thereafter.