§ Mr. Winnickasked the Prime Minister what objectives are served by the United Kingdom's membership of the Commonwealth; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe major objectives of our membership of the Commonweath remain:
- (i) the maintenance and reinforcement of the continuing strong links at all levels between member states and their peoples;
280 - (ii) continued support for the Commonwealth as an organisation which can play a constructive and stabilising role in world affairs, notably in promoting democratic principles, international understanding and world peace;
- (iii) the development of the association as a unique channel for encouraging co-operation and understanding between the industrialised and developing countries;
- (iv) the maximisation of the political and economic benefits of our Commonwealth membership.