ABSTRACT
Chapter 1 examines the establishment of the British Diplomatic Mission in Karachi. Britain, as the outgoing colonial ruler, was better placed than other countries in creating a diplomatic home. Nonetheless, this was not an easy task because of the pressures on accommodation in Pakistan’s capital in the immediate aftermath of Partition. The High Commission also had to respond to the consular challenges of assisting ‘distressed’ Britons and helping them return home. The High Commission also took on the unusual role of responsibility for the upkeep of European graveyards throughout the country. Finally, its staff needed to provide London with timely reports on the chaotic political situation in the new state of Pakistan.
