HC Deb 21 June 1965 vol 714 cc140-1W
Mrs. McKay

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will publish in the Official Report a list of British non-self-governing territories which could now accept in full the United Nations Convention on the Political Rights of Women, those non-self-governing territories which could now accept certain articles of the Convention, listing which of the territories could accept which of the articles, and the details, territory by territory, of the factors which inhibit them from accepting the full convention.

Mr. George Thomson

Non-self-governing territories were last consulted about the Convention in 1958. Constitutional and other changes since that date have removed some of the obstacles to ratification but a new review is necessary before the details for which my hon. Friend has asked can be given.

Territorial governments are now being consulted.

Mrs. McKay

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when Her Majesty's Government will ratify the United Nations Convention on the Political Rights of Women; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. George Thomson

As my noble Friend the Under-Secretary said in another place on 13th May, Her Majesty's Government are reviewing the question of United Kingdom ratification of the Convention on the Political Rights of Women.

This examination is still in progress, and the dependent territories are also being consulted. I hope to be able to make a further statement at a later date.