HL Deb 12 May 2004 vol 661 cc39-40WA
Lord Faulkner of Worcester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will support the admission of Taiwan with observer status to the World Health Organisation at the World Health Assembly in Geneva in May. [HL2543]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

There are difficulties over Taiwanese involvement in a UN forum where statehood is a prerequisite for full membership. We would consider with our EU partners any proposals for Taiwanese involvement in the World Health Organisation which took account of these difficulties.

Lord Faulkner of Worcester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What discussions they have had with the United States administration regarding the admission of Taiwan to the World Health Organisation with observer status. [HL 2544]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Foreign and Commonwealth Office officials regularly discuss Taiwan policy, including Taiwan's relationship with the World Health Organisation, with their US counterparts.