HC Deb 25 April 1984 vol 58 c730
61. Mr. Haselhurst

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if there are any new initiatives he will propose to resolve outstanding current problems between members of the European Community.

Mr. Rifkind

I refer my hon. Friend to the answer that I gave earlier to the hon. Member for Glasgow, Cathcart (Mr. Maxton).

Mr. Haselhurst

Is it not true that the gap on the budget problem has narrowed considerably? As we are negotiating with countries that are friends and allies, not enemies, might not a further move be required on our part to ensure that we find a speedy and satisfactory conclusion to the problem?

Mr. Rifkind

I assure my hon. Friend that Her Majesty's Government have shown considerable flexibility on this matter. We remain of the view that flexibility is required by all parties involved. If the United Kingdom is to be expected to move on this matter, it must be even easier for the other nine member states also to move to reach a satisfactory solution.