§ 58. Mr. Randallasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what contribution Her Majesty's Government will make to the programme of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in 1966.
§ The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. George Thomson)Her Majesty's Government have decided, subject to Parliamentary approval, to contribute £120,000 to the current programme of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in 1966. The comparable contribution to last year's programme was £100,000. A special additional contribution will also be made equivalent to the tax levied on the sale in the United Kingdom of the gramophone record "International Piano Festival", issued to raise funds for the High Commissioner's programme. Parliament will be asked to approve the 1966 contribution in the estimates for the coming financial year.
§ Mr. RandallI thank my hon. Friend for that good news which he has given to the House. In view of the urgent need for additional funds for the High Commissioner for Refugees, is he aware that the generous gesture on the part of Her Majesty's Government will be much appreciated and will encourage other nations to increase their contributions?