Arthur Snelling, English civil servant and diplomat. British Ambassador to South Africa (d. 1996)

Sir Arthur Wendell Snelling, born on May 7, 1914, and passing away on June 25, 1996, was a distinguished figure in British public life, dedicating his career to senior roles as a civil servant and diplomat. His extensive service spanned crucial periods of post-war transformation, shaping Britain's relationships with its Dominions and later the evolving Commonwealth.

Early Life and Educational Foundations

His formative years were spent at Ackworth School in Yorkshire, an institution known for its Quaker principles, which often emphasized public service and international understanding. Following this, he furthered his education at University College, London, a prestigious institution that prepared him for a career demanding intellectual rigour and strategic thinking.

A Distinguished Career in British Diplomacy and Civil Service

Foundational Years and Commonwealth Engagement

Snelling's professional journey began even before the outbreak of World War II, laying the groundwork for a prolific career. He first served as Study Group Secretary at the Royal Institute of International Affairs from 1934 to 1936. This period at Chatham House, a renowned independent policy institute, would have provided him with a profound understanding of global affairs and the intricacies of international relations, an invaluable foundation for his future diplomatic roles. In 1936, he joined the Dominions Office, a pivotal department responsible for managing relations between the United Kingdom and its self-governing Dominions such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. His early ascent was marked by his appointment as Private Secretary to the Parliamentary Under-Secretary in 1939, a role that placed him at the heart of government decision-making at a critical juncture in history. After the war, his career advanced significantly with a posting as Deputy High Commissioner for the UK in New Zealand, serving from 1947 to 1950. This role was particularly significant as it represented the UK's diplomatic presence within a fellow Commonwealth nation.

Senior Diplomatic Postings and Policy Influence

He then took on a similar position as Deputy High Commissioner for the UK in the Union of South Africa from May 1953 to January 1956, another key Commonwealth relationship. The title "High Commissioner" is traditionally used for diplomatic representatives between Commonwealth countries, mirroring the "Ambassador" role used for non-Commonwealth nations. His expertise in Commonwealth affairs led him to become Assistant Under-Secretary of State at the Commonwealth Relations Office between 1956 and 1959, the successor department to the Dominions Office, reflecting the evolving nature of the former empire into a voluntary association of independent states. He continued to play a central role in strengthening these vital ties. From 1959 to 1961, Sir Arthur served as the British High Commissioner in Ghana, a country that had recently gained independence and held significant symbolic importance as a beacon for other African nations seeking self-determination. This posting highlighted his ability to navigate complex post-colonial relationships. His career then took him to a senior position within the newly formed Foreign and Commonwealth Office, where he served as Deputy Under-Secretary of State from 1961 to 1969. This period was marked by the significant amalgamation of the Foreign Office and the Commonwealth Relations Office, placing Snelling at the forefront of Britain's integrated foreign policy apparatus during a dynamic global era. His final major diplomatic posting was as Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa from 1970 to 1973. This appointment was notably as an Ambassador, not a High Commissioner, because South Africa had left the Commonwealth in 1961, reflecting a crucial shift in its international status during the apartheid era. His presence there during such a sensitive period underscored the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels.

Post-Government Service and Personal Reflections

Even after concluding his extensive government career, Sir Arthur remained engaged in international relations and trade. From 1974 to 1980, he served as Vice-President of the UK-South Africa Trade Association, contributing to economic ties between the two nations during a period when South Africa's international standing was increasingly contentious. Beyond his public persona as Sir Arthur Wendell Snelling, he was affectionately known as Peter among his close friends and family, reserving his formal birth name for official duties and correspondence. His life concluded on June 25, 1996, at his home in Kingston upon Thames. While he had bravely battled and received treatment for lung cancer, his passing was ultimately attributed to emphysema. He was survived by his devoted wife, Frieda (née Barnes), who lived until September 22, 2016, having been born on November 11, 1914.

FAQs: Understanding Sir Arthur Wendell Snelling's Legacy

Who was Sir Arthur Wendell Snelling?

Sir Arthur Wendell Snelling (1914–1996) was a highly respected senior British civil servant and diplomat whose career spanned from the pre-World War II era through the Cold War, primarily focusing on relations with the Dominions and later the Commonwealth, culminating in senior roles within the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and as Ambassador to South Africa.

What were his key diplomatic postings?

His significant diplomatic postings included Deputy High Commissioner for the UK in New Zealand (1947–1950) and the Union of South Africa (1953–1956), and later as British High Commissioner in Ghana (1959–1961). He concluded his diplomatic career as Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa from 1970 to 1973.

What was his role after retiring from government service?

After retiring from direct government service, Sir Arthur remained active, serving as Vice-President of the UK-South Africa Trade Association from 1974 to 1980, focusing on strengthening economic links.

How did he prefer to be addressed by friends and family?

While publicly known by his formal name, Sir Arthur Wendell Snelling preferred to be called Peter by his friends and family.

What were the circumstances of his death?

Sir Arthur Wendell Snelling passed away on June 25, 1996, at his home in Kingston upon Thames. He had undergone treatment for lung cancer, but his death was ultimately due to emphysema. He was survived by his wife, Frieda.