§ Mr. Proctorasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the objectives of Her Majesty's Government in their policy towards the Commonwealth.
§ Mr. WhitneyThe major objectives of our policies towards the Commonwealth are:
- (i) the maintenance and reinforcement of the continuing strong links at all levels between member states and their peoples;
- (ii) continued support for the Commonwealth as an organisation which can play a constructive and stabilising role in world affairs, notably in promoting democratic principles, international understanding and world peace;
- (iii) the development of the association as a unique channel for encouraging cooperation and understanding between the industrialised and developing countries;
- (iv) the maximisation of the political and economic benefits of our Commonwealth membership.