§ Lord Kennetasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they consider it appropriate for permanent members of the United Nations Security Council not to pay their dues, and, in particular, what is their policy towards the reported debts of the United States ($295 million) and Russia ($138 million).
§ The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Baroness Chalker of Wallasey)We firmly believe that the only solution to the financial crisis of the UN is for all member states to pay their assessed contributions promptly and in full. We believe the current state of arrears is disturbing and, along with our EC colleagues, have delivered a number of dèmarches to the US expressing concern about the level of their outstanding contributions. Furthermore, we actively encourage all member states, including the US and Russia, to meet their financial obligations to the organisation.
We are pleased to note, however, that both the US and Russia have recently made substantial payments to the UN Regular Budget and intend making more over the coming months.