What is CMEC?
CMEC exists to raise awareness and understanding of the Middle East among Conservative MPs, Peers and the wide Conservative Party. We do this through a series of events in Westminster and Parliamentary delegations to the region.
Why is CMEC important?
We believe that greater expertise in Middle Eastern affairs among Conservative Parliamentarians will enable the Government to produce a better policy framework for the Middle East and advance the UK’s bi-lateral interests across the region.
What happens on a CMEC delegation?
Parliamentarians who go on visits receive high level access to senior ranking officials from Government, business and civil society. Delegates also gain an insight into the lives of local people and are able to immerse themselves in the region’s culture, history and politics.
What countries does CMEC cover?
Our primary focus is on the 22 member states of the Arab League, Israel and Iran. We do not cover Afghanistan or Pakistan.
Does CMEC have a policy position?
No. CMEC advocates no specific policy position.
When was CMEC founded?
CMEC was set up by Sir Dennis Walters in 1980 under Margaret Thatcher’s Government, following her signature of the Venice Declaration of the European Union.
I am not a Conservative MP or Peer. Can I become a member of CMEC?
No, not at present but we are exploring ways to create a wider membership. We do maintain a mailing list of supporters which we keep informed of our activities and invite to events.
Who pays for CMEC?
CMEC is funded entirely out of private donations.
CMEC is defined as a “regulated donee” under Schedule 7 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (PPERA). This means that we can only accept donations of over £500 from individuals on the UK electoral register, and from organisations which are registered and carrying on business in the UK. We are also required to declare all donations over £7,500 to the Electoral Commission.
How do I donate to CMEC?
In order to make a donation to CMEC please send a cheque payable to the “Conservative Middle East Council” to CMEC, 55 Tufton Street, London, SW1P 3QL.
If the donation is more than £500 please also provide the following information:
For Company Donations: please send us your registered company address and the company registration number
Individual donations: please send us the address of your UK residence where you are registered to vote (please note this information will remain confidential).
How can I work for CMEC?
Any vacancies we have will be advertised on w4mp.org.
How can I volunteer/intern for CMEC?
CMEC regularly offers internships to recent graduates. These positions are advertised on w4mp.org.