Here's the email from my Dad,
While I acknowledge your statement that your position would not change even if the UN question did not exist, I'd like to share some information I've just acquired on that matter. I do not yet have all the relevant detail but I'll pass on what I do have at present.
I understand that the press officer at the office of public information at London Bethel on 10/22 responded to the Guardian article by refuting, point by point, the "factual errors" contained in that article. As it happens the society did apply for DPI/NGO status in 1991 for the purpose of getting access to the UN's library. In 1991 there was no requirement to sign off on a statement endorsing UN principles. In effect they were applying for a "library card". It seems that that requirement came after Kofi Annan's arrival as part of a general tightening up effected by Annan. Evidently, this requirement was slipped in unnoticed. If the Society is quilty of anything it is that they went unaware of this new requirement.
Additionally, I have learned that the Society had an observer at the UN sessions for many years. Just as in the case of the press, media or any interested observer it does not necessarily constitute endorsement. I understand that the library access was a more cost effective expedient for accessing UN info..
If and when I get any more detail on this I will pass it on. Otherwise, I will abide by your wish to limit conversation to light non-confrontational issues. Hope you and your family are well.
love,
Dad