ABSTRACT
This chapter illustrates how the 'art' of diplomacy has broadened to involve large numbers of officials stationed overseas. Representation in overseas countries continues to be a central element of international relations. The 1943 reforms attempted to introduce changes into the recruitment and training of diplomats so that entrants would come from a broader educational spectrum and once in the diplomatic service, specialized training in economic and social issues would be increased. In addition to promoting British trade, diplomats must have training and expertise in economic and financial matters in order to adequately report economic conditions in host countries and assist in negotiations in these areas. The structure of overseas posts is determined by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office's (FCO's) Top Management Round on the basis of reports from the department's Overseas Inspectorate and the government's financial requirements. Regional variations were also noticeable, with the majority of specialist FCO officers serving in posts in Western Europe and the United States.
