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Parting Shots

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

Radio 4,5 episodes

Episodes

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Series 1
Episode 1
Valedictories in which retiring ambassadors poked fun at the nations where they had served
20 Oct 2009,15 mins
Series 1
Episode 2
How diplomacy requires an ambassador to see beyond the shortcomings of foreign hosts.
27 Oct 2009,15 mins
Series 1
Episode 3
In their valedictories, diplomats recount the hardships of foreign service.
03 Nov 2009,15 mins
Series 1
Episode 4
Despatches which changed the course of history.
10 Nov 2009,15 mins
Series 1
Episode 5
Matthew Parris on valedictories which embarrassed ministers.
17 Nov 2009,15 mins