HC Deb 04 December 1957 vol 579 cc351-2
4. Mr. Brockway

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what amounts have been subscribed by Her Majesty's Government to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for the years 1955, 1956, and 1957, respectively; and what proportion of these amounts was allocated to the relief of Arab refugees in Jordan and Gaza.

Mr. Ian Harvey

Her Majesty's Government have contributed to the relief budget of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees £1,607,143 in 1955, and a similar sum in 1956, and in 1957 £1,642,858 to date. The payments are made to the Agency and are not specified as being for operations in particular countries.

Mr. Brockway

While recognising that this country and the United States contribute approximately 90 per cent. of this fund, may I ask the hon. Member whether he appreciates the necessity of maintaining the fund, particularly in view of the new opportunities for resettlement of this refugee population?

Mr. Harvey

Of course we accept that principle, but the hon. Member has made the point clear. We are in fact the second largest contributor and it is up to other people to look at these matters as well.

27. Miss Burton

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when he expects to be able to make a statement concerning the contribution of Her Majesty's Government to the funds of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees on the understanding that the funds will be used for resettlement movements.

Mr. Ian Harvey

Subject to Parliamentary approval, Her Majesty's Government will contribute up to £100,000 in 1958. Of this sum £80,000 will be made available as an outright contribution, and a further £20,000 will be paid provided Governmental contributions to the Fund reach a total of $3.25 million. But the United Kingdom contribution will not necessarily be devoted solely to resettlement.

Miss Burton

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this contribution will be of great service to the work which is being done by Mr. Lindt, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees? Is he also aware that the High Commissioner would be very grateful for any additional help which we could give, especially before Christmas, to enable the organisation to carry on and complete its work?

Mr. Harvey

We certainly understand the position, but Her Majesty's Government are the second largest regular contributor to U.N.R.W.A.