text: connection, his delegation would welcome information on how the Office was functioninq. 45. Mr. DEVREUX (Belgium) said that CPC had recommended strengthening the Office to improve co-ordination and to reduce travel between Headauarters and the regional commissions. His delegation wished to know whether there had, in fact, been any reduction in travel costs. 46. Mr. MURRAY (United Kingdom) said that the Office's active representation of the regional commissions clearly had a bearing on travel costs, on which his delegation would also like to have further information. 47. Mr. MUDHO (Kenya) said that his delegation had no doubt that the Reqional Commissions Liaison Office was serving a useful purpose. Kenya supported the CFC recommendation to strengthen the Office, but was also concerned to know exactly what impact there had been on travel costs. 48. Mr. MAJOLI (Italy) said that the budget provided for increased expenditure on travel and a reduced appropriation for long distance telephone costs. An explanation would be welcome. 49. Mr. ANNAN (Director, Budget Division) said that the Office was playinq an important role in terms of programme and co-ordination activities, serving as a focal point tor the Executive Secretaries of the commissions. The existence of the Office had reduced the need for representatives of the Commissions to travel to Headauarters to attend meetings. With respect to the appropriation for telephone costs, a proposal had been made to upgrade the United Nations communications network, which should lead to a reduction in communications costs, particularly tor those otfices away from New York. / ... A/C.5/40/SR.31 English Page 9 so. Mr. MILLER (United States of America) said that it was important for any strengthening of the Office to be offset by a reduction in costs at the regional commissions, for example expenditure on travel. It appeared that there had, 
analysis: This text appears to be a discussion about the functioning of a United Nations Office and its impact on travel costs and coordination. The speakers mention the Office's role in reducing travel needs and upgrading the UN communications network, which suggests a focus on administrative efficiency and cost reduction.