HC Deb 18 November 1981 vol 13 c141W
5. Mr. Woodall

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will raise with the Soviet Government the question of that Government's compliance with its undertakings in the Helsinki agreement relating to human rights.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

When my right hon. and noble Friend was in Moscow in July he reminded the Soviet Foreign Minister of the importance which we attach to human rights and of the strong feelings in the United Kingdom. During the CSCE review meeting in Madrid, which has recently resumed its work, our views on the inadequacy of Soviet performance in this field have been made abundantly clear.

20. Mr. Lawrence

asked the Lord Privy Seal what progress there has been since the resumption of discussions on the Helsinki agreement in Madrid.

26. Mr. David Atkinson

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on the Helsinki review conference in Madrid.

Mr. Hurd

The Madrid review meeting reconvened on 27 October. Work is continuing on a concluding document, but the main issues of military security and human rights remain unresolved. We are continuing to seek a substantial and balanced outcome which we believe could be obtained before Christmas.