§ 9. Mr. Michael Jack (Fylde)What is his current assessment of the financial health of the United Nations. [74915]
§ The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Mr. Tony Lloyd)The United Nations remains in serious financial difficulties. At the end of 1998, it was owed more than $2 billion by member states. We urged all member states to pay their dues promptly, in full and without conditions. We continue to promote the European Union's proposals to put United Nations finances on a more secure and equitable long-term footing.
§ Mr. JackThe Minister's answer shows the lamentable progress towards achieving the objectives of that European initiative. Is he aware of the 5th Committee, which is trying to secure a better financial base for the United Nations? Is he also aware that agenda item 115, which is being considered by the committee, is behind timetable? What action will he take to ensure that it gets back on timetable? Will he assure the House that, once completed, this matter will be discussed at the next General Assembly of the United Nations?
§ Mr. LloydI am sorry that the right hon. Gentleman wants to try to turn this into an attack on the Government. In fact, this Government have done as much as any. Indeed, I credit previous Governments in such terms. We are a good payer; we pay on time. We set the rest of the world a good example. Britain is up to date with its payments. Some 136 countries owed money at the beginning of the year when time to pay expired. The matter will be raised at the General Assembly. Britain will continue in the European framework, the UN, and with respect to the 5th Committee, to ensure that the argument is taken forward. We remind all states of their obligations—especially the United States, which is the single biggest debtor—that they must resolve their internal political problems and pay the money owed.