HC Deb 22 February 1967 vol 741 cc310-1W
Mr. Judd

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what machinery exists for regulation consultation between his Department and other Departments concerned in order to formulate British policy towards the United Nations Edu- cational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation and other Specialised Agencies of the United Nations.

Mr. Oram

Although the Ministry has a close interest in the development activities of all the Specialised Agencies, its direct responsibility towards them is limited to U.N.E.S.C.O. and F.A.O.

Regular organisation on broad policy matters takes place through the normal governmental committee structure. In addition there is close and continuing inter-Departmental consultation on all matters in which the activities of a Specialised Agency are of concern to more than one Ministry.

Mr. Judd

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what studies he has made of the new programme of cooperation between the Food and Agriculture Organisation and the World Bank; and what proposals he will make for similar co-operation between other specialised agencies of the United Nations.

Mr. Oram

This programme of cooperation began in 1964 and Her Majesty's Government have kept fully in touch with its operations throughout. Other forms of co-operative arrangements already exist between other Specialised Agencies. It is Her Majesty's Government's policy to encourage this cooperation wherever appropriate.

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