Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what changes the UK is seeking in the composition of the UN Security Council. [15007]

Mr Bellingham MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs: As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs said on 1 July:

'this Government will be at the forefront of those arguing for the expansion of the United Nations Security Council'.

We are clear and unambiguous in our support for a reformed Council and consider that the number of permanent seats should be increased to include Japan, India, Germany, Brazil and African representation.