HC Deb 21 December 1982 vol 34 cc419-20W
Mr. David Steel

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what financial contribution Her Majesty's Government are making to the work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for the year 1983–84; what their contributions have been for each of the previous three years; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Neil Marten

I am not yet in a position to announce a contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for 1983–84. Our contributions for the previous three years are as follows:

  • 1980–81—£4.5 million (cash)
  • 1981–82—£5.0 million (cash)
  • 1982–83—£4.0 million (cash)
  • £1.0 million (as food aid for those in need in the Lebanon)

In addition, Britain's share of European Community contributions to UNRWA has been, in calendar years:

  • 1980—£3.2 million (approx)
  • 1981—£4.1 million (approx)
  • 1982—not yet available

Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if the United Kingdom has now pledged funds for 1983–84 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency; what was the total given in 1982–83; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Neil Marten

I am not yet in a position to announce a pledge to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for 1983–84. Total assistance from the United Kingdom to the agency in 1982–83 was £4 million in cash and £1 million in food aid. In addition, the United Kingdom contributes just over 20 per cent. of the European Community's assistance to UNRWA: the total for 1982 is not yet available.