§ 33. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement on the progress of negotiations to control nuclear tests and the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
§ Mr. George BrownWhile I was in Moscow I pressed Mr. Gromyko to agree to the long-standing Western proposal for scientific talks to explore the possibility of progress on a comprehensive test ban. 997 Unfortunately this was rejected. On non-proliferation, however, as I told the House on 6th December, there is now a new prospect of agreement. This is delicately balanced, but we and our allies are doing our best to get a treaty.—[Vol. 737, c. 1173.]
§ Mr. RidsdaleWill such a non-proliferation treaty contain a clause affecting the transfer of nuclear weapons to and through alliances? What is the Government's view towards keeping open such an option for European defence?
§ Mr. BrownI congratulate the hon. Gentleman on being very much on the ball. However, in view of what I said about the delicate balance, we ought to let it rest there.
§ Lord BalnielCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is full agreement between the United States and this country about the text of a non-proliferation agreement?
§ Mr. BrownI repeat that we and our allies are doing our best to get a treaty. There is not much to be gained by my making too specific statements today.