§ Mr. Forthasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will support the United States and other countries by withdrawing the United Kingdom contribution to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation if that organisation is not satisfactorily reformed and reconstituted.
§ Mr. RaisonI am currently reviewing our policy towards UNESCO. Over the last year Her Majesty's Government have sought reforms but not the reconstitution of UNESCO.
§ Mr. Wallaceasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what consultations he proposed before reaching a decision on the future of United Kingdom membership of UNESCO; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RaisonI will take into consideration the views of hon. Members and of those Organisations and individuals who have written to me. It was agreed at the United Kingdom national commission for UNESCO on 5 November that it would make a further assessment of the78W desirability of Britain's continued membership in the light of the outcome of the next general conference in October 1985. I shall remain in close touch with those countries who share our concerns about the organisation.