HC Deb 30 July 1984 vol 65 c18
42. Mr. Bowen Wells

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what was the outcome of the Minister for Overseas Development's visit to the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation's offices.

Mr. Raison

In my visit to Paris on July 11, I discussed with the director general and others their reactions to the concerns expressed in my letter of 2 April. I also met the temporary committee set tip by the executive board. I stressed again that we shall be looking for significant indications of change by the end of 1984.

Mr. Wells

Has my right hon. Friend received the report of Peace and Community Endeavour to the United Nations parliamentary group, of which I have the honour to be chairman? What is his reaction to that report? Does he believe that UNESCO will make effective reforms, sufficient to retain the United Kingdom's subscription and support, by the end of the year?

Mr. Raison

I have indeed received the interesting report to which my hon. Friend refers. In regard to the extent to which there is progress in response to our proposals in UNESCO, I can only say that the executive board has set up a special committee to examine the matter. The director general has also set up five working groups. We shall have to wait and see whether they come up with effective proposals for reform.