(a) whether during 1998-99, the High Commission of India, London and the Embassy of India at Brussels kept Rs. 7.33 crores and Rs.1.17 crores respectively outside the consolidated fund of India for more than 5 years;
(b) if so, whether the total interest loss due to this was a staggering Rs. 6.04 crores;
(c) if so, whether the Government propose to enforce strict fiscal measures for their missions abroad; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS ( SHRI JASWANT SINGH )
(a) and (b) No, Sir. No funds pertaining to the High Commission of India, London and Embassy of India, Brussels have been kept outside the consolidated fund of India for more than 5 years. No funds pertaining to the High Commission of India, London and Embassy of India, Brussels, have been kept outside the Consolidated Fund of India. The Comptroller and Auditor General in his report for the year ended 1998 (Para No.2 of 1999) has pointed out that High Commission of India, London and Embassy of India, Brussels kept Rs.7.33 crores and Rs.1.17 crores respectively in non-interest bearing accounts. According to the report, this has resulted in interest loss to the government to the tune of Rs.6.04 crores. Since then, the amounts mentioned have been repatriated to the government accounts.
(c) and (d) Government has instructed all its Missions/Posts abroad to strictly observe the standing instructions on not holding funds in excess of their six-weeks` requirement. Further, all Indian Missions/Posts abroad have been instructed to close all non-functional/in-operative non-interest bearing accounts and repatriate the funds lying therein.