HC Deb 19 December 1961 vol 651 cc143-4W
Sir F. Markham

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he proposes to take steps to draw the attention of the United Nations to the fact that 87 of its members are in arrears of contributions; and whether he will suggest the disenfranchisement of those countries two or more years in arrear.

Mr. Heath

The fact is already well known to the General Assembly and accounts for the present precarious financial position of the Organisation. No member can, however, be disenfranchised until its arrears equal or exceed the total of contributions due from it for the preceding two years. No member is yet so far in arrears that this sanction can be invoked.