"In spite of his quotation from Eric Clarke that "Consuls are the Cinderellas of the diplomatic service", this study shows through a historical evolution, the relevance of Consuls through their structure, competence, privileges and immunities. " from the Foreword by H.E. Professor Guido de Marco, President of the 45th UN General Assembly, President Emeritus of the Republic of Malta Contents of this work include: * The Consul through the Ages * The Appointment of Consuls * Consular Privileges and Immunities * Functions of Consuls * Assistance to Nationals * Notarial Functions of Consuls * The Consul's Role in the Protection of Foreign Interests * The Honorary Consul Appendices * Withdrawal from the Optional Protocol * Vienna Convention on Consular Relations 1963 * UK-Sweden Agreement * GUUAM Convention on Consular Relations An invaluable purchase for Governments, lawyers and those who study them - as well as for Consuls themselves.