HC Deb 08 February 1977 vol 925 cc615-6W
Mr. David Hunt

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what consultations have taken place, are taking place or are proposed, with the Council of Europe and its member States over the reduction in the Government's contribution to the European Youth Foundation; and what representations he has received on the reduction.

Mr. Luard

This subject was extensively discussed at meetings in October and December of the Intergovernmental Committee of the Foundation. Our partners in the Council of Europe have so far shown considerable understanding. Representations on this subject have been received from the British Youth Council, from Young European Left and from the Council of European National Youth Committee based in Brussels.

Mr. David Hunt

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if the reduction in the Government's contribution to the European Youth Foundation is temporary; and, if so, by what stages he proposes the contribution should be increased.

Mr. Luard

Her Majesty's Government hope soon to revert to a full contribution. The reduced contribution is intended only as a temporary measure.

Mr. David Hunt

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs for what reasons he has decided to reduce the Government's contribution to the endowment of the European Youth Foundation; and to what percentage of the level agreed between member States of the Council of Europe for 1977 the contribution has now been reduced.

Mr. Luard

The decision was entirely the result of our economic difficulties and in no way reflected any doubts by Her Majesty's Government of the value of the Foundation or of the activities supported by it. The total agreed endowment of the Foundation during 1977—subject to fluctuation of exchange rates—is approximately £338,200, of which the United Kingdom's contribution of £20,000 is therefore about 5.88 per cent.