Britons Pack, Say Goodby in Damascus

British diplomats packed furniture, bought souvenirs and said goodby to friends Saturday as they and their families prepared to leave Syria following the breaking of relations between Damascus and London.

“I’m packing, but there’s a problem finding material here,” said Catherine Young, wife of Rob Young, the head of chancery at the British Embassy. “There’s shortages of boxes and paper. But the embassy’s getting organized. We’re very sad to leave.”

Britain broke off relations with Syria on Friday because of what it called “conclusive evidence” that Damascus was involved in an attempt by a Jordanian to blow up an Israeli jetliner in April. Syria responded by closing its airspace and ports to Britain and giving the 19 British diplomats a week to get out.

British Ambassador Roger Tomkys said he was “heavily engaged in packing” when reached by telephone at his residence.

“We also have administrative things to deal with. We’re now discussing with the Syrians on establishing interest sections with other embassies in London and Damascus. . . . The Syrians are very helpful.”

Asked when he thought diplomatic relations would be resumed, Tomkys said: “That’s a long time ahead. I’m preoccupied with mundane things like getting my stuff into boxes without being broken. It’s difficult to look forward too far.”

Asked if his wife could be interviewed, the harried envoy said, “I’d rather she got on with her packing.”

Catherine Young said she wanted to buy Syrian silk and “take an enormous supply of Syrian tablecloths” before she leaves Damascus on Friday. “I also want to see a lot of my Syrian friends before I go.”

The Britons said they felt no hostility from Syrians, despite Damascus’ sharp response to the British action.