§ Mr. Rhodes Jamesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total British contribution to the Inter-Parliamentary Union in the financial year 1979–80; what proportion is for administrative costs; and if he proposes to review the anticipated expenditure for 1980–81, in the light of Her Majesty's Government's policies on public expenditure.
§ Mr. LawsonThe British contribution for 1979–80 to the central fund of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, which is financed by contributions from the 88 member countries in accordance with an agreed international formula, is £40,326. Some 79 per cent. of the expenditure is on administrative costs. The expenditure of the British group for 1980–81 has been reviewed in the light of the Government's public expenditure policies.
§ Mr. Rhodes Jamesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the expenditure out of public funds for travel and 196W subsistence for Member of both Houses of Parliament and officials, for attendance at meetings for the Inter-Parliamentary Union 1979–80 and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LawsonThe cost out of public funds for travel and subsistence for Members and officials of the British group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union for attendance at meetings of the union in 1979–80 is expected to be £30,300. My right hon. and learned Friend, the Chancellor, has no plans to make a statement.