On 15 May 2008, I asked Harriet Harman, Leader of the House of Commons, to make time to discuss consular services in the light of my constituent Norman Mark's case:

"Will my right hon. and learned Friend find time for the House to look at the level of support provided by our consular services to business men abroad? I am speaking of my constituent Norman Mark, among others. He sunk his life savings into a café in Turkey, only to find it occupied by local villagers. He has had little meaningful support from our consular services overseas and Turkish services here."

Harriet Harman promised to bring the matter to the attention of David Miliband stating:

"My hon. Friend has reinforced the importance of the role of consular services. I will bring her constituent's case to the attention of my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary."