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Last broadcast on Tue, 17 Nov 2009, 09:30 on BBC Radio 4.
Synopsis
Matthew Parris marks the passing of the valedictory despatch, the traditional final telegram home in which British ambassadors could let their hair down and settle a few scores. The series features newly declassified Foreign Office files alongside interviews with the diplomats who wrote them.
Valedictories which embarrassed ministers. Featuring interviews with Sir Ivor Roberts, whose 2006 valedictory led to the Foreign Office banning their circulation, and Sir Peter Ricketts, head of the Diplomatic Service.
Broadcast
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Tue 17 Nov 200909:30
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