To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has been made by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy since its establishment; to what extent Her Majesty's Government have given it support; and what plans the Government have to develop the foundation's activities.

The Westminster Foundation for Democracy was incorporated on 26 February 1992. In accordance with the foundation's articles, I have appointed 14 governors following consultations with the political parties represented at Westminster. They have elected Sir James Spicer as their chairman and Mr. George Robertson and Sir Russell Johnston as vice-chairmen. The Government are providing funding of £1 million for the foundation's activities in this financial year. I have also instructed embassies abroad to help the foundation when requested. Questions about the activities of the foundation and its future plans should, however, be addressed direct to the foundation itself as its operations are independent of the Government.