HC Deb 20 April 1953 vol 514 cc636-7
31. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the financial resources of the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund are at a dangerously low level; and whether, in view of this situation, he will consider increasing the United Kingdom contribution.

Mr. Nutting

Provided the pledges of Governments are fulfilled the Fund should receive about 15,800,000 dollars for 1953. As this is more than the essential minimum, the Fund's resources cannot be said to be at a dangerously low level. Nevertheless, as I stated in reply to the hon. Member on 23rd February, Her Majesty's Government have decided to make a contribution for this year double that for 1952.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Under-Secretary aware that our contribution per capita since the inauguration of the scheme is lower than that of countries like Iceland, Uruguay and Israel; and, in view of the extremely valuable work that this organisation is doing, will he make representations to the Treasury with a view to increasing our contribution, in view of the fact that in relation to the U.S.S.R. we have expressed the opinion that actions speak louder than words?

Mr. Nutting

I do not consider, as my answer has already indicated, that this Fund is in need of further assistance so long as the pledges of Governments are redeemed and receive, in appropriate cases, the necessary Parliamentary approval.