HC Deb 20 February 1933 vol 274 cc1437-8
34. Mr. LEVY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many members of the League of Nations are still in arrears with their contributions; the total amount outstanding; and what proportion of the revenue of the League is paid by Great Britain?

Sir J. SIMON

Twenty-seven countries are still in arrears with their contributions, the total amount outstanding being 23,637,216 gold francs. His Majesty's Government's contribution in respect of the year 1933 is 10.37 per cent. of the total contributions payable for the year.

Mr. LEVY

Can my right hon. Friend say what advantage, if any, this country enjoys from its disproportionate contribution, and whether voting power is related to the degree of financial support?

Sir J. SIMON

I take the view that it is both in the interest and one of the duties of this country to play its part as a loyal member of the League of Nations.

Lieut.-Commander AGNEW

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any limit is set to the overdrafts of these States?

Sir J. SIMON

I do not think that there is a constitutional limit, but, manifestly, the activities of the League can only be carried on in so far as there is money available.

Mr. MORGAN JONES

Does the figure which the right hon. Gentleman has given apply to Great Britain alone, or to the British Empire?

Sir J. SIMON

It is the contribution of the United Kingdom Government.