§ 13. Mr. MaplesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department has reconsidered its military commitments to NATO in the light of recent developments in eastern Europe.
§ Mr. Tom KingAs I have already made clear, we shall continue to support NATO's deterrent strategy, which offers the best means of ensuring peace and security. But we shall continue to examine options for change in the light of developments and we hope that they will include a successful outcome to CFE.
§ Mr. MaplesAlthough developments in Europe should enable substantial arms reductions to be negotiated, does my right hon. Friend agree that Europe is entering a potentially unstable period and that NATO will continue to be an essential stabilising influence?
§ Mr. KingEvery day that goes by there are fresh developments. Today's announcement is a further development in the current confused situation. That is why until the position is very much clearer it is essential that we co-operate with our NATO allies and remain firmly in support of the NATO defence strategy.
§ Mr. DouglasIn reviewing NATO strategy, will the Secretary of State have a care about the probable phenomenom in central Europe of a united Germany, and will he pay particular attention to the need to ensure that that united Germany never has the capability of delivering strategic nuclear weapons?
§ Mr. KingThat is governed by a treaty at present, and I am not aware of any proposals to alter the position. I have already emphasised that we attach great importance to the continuing role of a united Germany within NATO. Germany is a key member of NATO and it is very important that it remains so.