§ 51. Mr. P. Williamsasked the Lord Privy Seal what is the cost of the United Nations operation in the Congo to date; which nations are in arrears with their special contributions; and for what amounts they are in arrears.
§ Mr. HeathThe total cost of the United Nations operation in the Congo to the end of June is approximately$240 million. The most recent figures available show that, on 31st May, sixty-six countries wore in arrears in their contributions for 1960 or 1961, or both years,46W to a total of$51½ million. The list of countries in arrears is published, together with the amounts, in United Nations document ST/ADM/SER. B/159, which is available in the Library of the House.
§ Mr. P. Williamsasked the Lord Privy Seal when it is expected to end the United Nations campaign in the Congo and in Katanga; and what estimate has been made of the total cost of the operation.
§ Mr. HeathHer Majesty's Government hope that a national reconciliation may be effected which will enable the United Nations to withdraw its forces in due course from the Congo. It is estimated that the cost of the United Nations operation in the Congo (O.N.U.C.) to the end of June is approximately 240 million dollars. No accurate calculation can be made, since some countries which have provided troops or services to O.N.U.C. have not yet submitted detailed accounts.
§ Mr. P. Williamsasked the Lord Privy Seal how many United Nations troops are now in the Congo; how many are in Katanga; and how these figures compare with 12 months ago.
§ Mr. HeathUnited Nations troops now in the Congo total some 17,000, of whom 8,000 are in Katanga. The comparable figures a year ago were 22,000 and 3,000.