§ 49. Mr. John Townendasked the Lord Privy Seal what is the current United Kingdom contribution to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.
§ Mr. Neil MartenThe current current contribution is the sterling equivalent of about $8.7 million for each of the calendar years 1981, 1982 and 1983. This represents 4.41 per cent. of UNESCO's regular budget.
§ Mr. TownendI thank my right hon. Friend for that reply, but is UNESCO's expenditure cost effective? Will he support the American Government's opposition to the payments—some would describe them as bribes—that are made to certain newspapers so that they print biased articles on aid to the Third world? If the United States of America decides to withdraw from UNESCO in protest will the Government support it?
§ Mr. MartenMy hon. Friend's remarks reflect a growing feeling in Britain. Of UNESCO's budget, 70 per 574 cent. is spent on science and education, which is regarded as effective and useful. If the Americans were to withdraw from UNESCO, we should not want to, because we should stay in UNESCO to protect the freedom of the media. We must fight any attempt in UNESCO to deny the freedom of the media.
§ Mr. SpearingAs regards protecting the freedom of the media, does the Minister agree that most world news media tend to be oriented towards the needs of the North, while paying insufficient attention to the legitimate needs of the South? Should not that factor be taken into account when considering the issue raised by the hon. Member for Bridlington (Mr. Townend)?
§ Mr. MartenIt is a matter to be taken into account. However, the Brandt report has been well discussed and the South has gained a lot of publicity for its problems.