The British foreign office has issued a new guide to its services for UK tourists and nationals resident abroad. The guide sets out comprehensively what the foreign office can and cannot do for those in difficulty as a result of crime, illness or unforeseen circumstances. For example, as well as issuing replacement passports, British embassies, commissions and consulates can provide UK citizens with details of local lawyers, interpreters, doctors and funeral directors as well as help those with mental illness. However, they are unable to interfere in criminal or civil court proceedings, give legal advice, pay bills and find work or accommodation. To see the full text of the guide online, visit www.fco.gov.uk.