Written question asked by Lord Tebbit (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Thursday, 14 July 2011.

Commonwealth

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what advantages accrue to nationals of states admitted to the Commonwealth.

Answer: The Commonwealth is founded on the shared values of democracy, good governance and rule of law. Upholding these core values benefits nationals of all Commonwealth member states. They also have access to an increasingly intensive network of intra-Commonwealth trade and investment flows, and they can participate in over 100 professional, educational and scientific associations and bodies which enable the sharing of skills and expertise. This includes the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, which strengthens parliaments and democratic processes across the Commonwealth. Through these networks, Commonwealth citizens have a say, and a role, in all Commonwealth resolutions and commitments. The Commonwealth also provides access to a rich network of cultural and social networks, and links between member states are further strengthened by the network of high commissioners which provide a Commonwealth representation in every Commonwealth country.

Secondary information