§ 14. Mr. Hannanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will consult education authorities for the purpose of initiating a campaign under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation gift coupon scheme through which schools and other organisations can adopt schools or educational projects in other countries, especially in Hungary and Egypt.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartIn a circular issued to education authorities on 12th October in connection with the celebration of United Nations Day, it was suggested that special attention might be given by schools to the U.N.E.S.C.O. Gift Coupon Scheme. Lists of projects approved by U.N.E.S.C.O. as requiring assistance are circulated to Scottish schools, but I am informed that these have not so far included any in Hungary or Egypt.
§ Mr. HannanIn such a campaign as is suggested, does not the Joint Under-Secretary appreciate that excellent opportunities would be provided for lessons in international co-operation and extending practical help to victims of aggression? Even refresher courses might be provided by local authorities for Her Majesty's Ministers to help them to a better understanding of the aims and principles of the United Nations Charter?
§ Mr. StewartWe are entirely in favour of that, and the circular to which I have referred the hon. Member, of which I shall be glad to give him a copy, indicates that we are very much in favour of this gift coupon scheme, but the arrangements are—and always have been—that it is only for those projects approved by U.N.E.S.C.O. that coupons are used.
§ Mr. HannanWill the Joint Under-Secretary of State see that such help is extended to the two countries mentioned?
§ Mr. StewartI think that is a matter for U.N.E.S.C.O. It is not appropriate for the Secretary of State to suggest to U.N.E.S.C.O. what it ought to do.