§ 21. Mr. Andrew MacKayasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the Government's relationship with the Lebanese Government.
§ 33. Mr. Marlowasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the Lebanon.
§ Sir Geoffrey HoweOur relations with the Lebanese Government are close and friendly. The visit to London by the President of Lebanon from 13 to 15 December 1983 and that of the Lebanese Foreign Minister on 20 January provided opportunities for detailed discussions on matters of mutual concern. We will continue to support the efforts of the Lebanese Government to pursue national reconciliation and the withdrawal of foreign forces, as well as the restoration of the Government's authority throughout Lebanese territory.
§ 41. Mr. Mikardoasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether, during his recent meeting with President Gemayel of Lebanon, he discussed specific steps to obtain withdrawal from Lebanon of all foreign forces, and whether he is considering any initiative to that end.
§ Sir Geoffrey HoweI have discussed how to make progress towards the withdrawal of foreign forces from Lebanon with President Gemayel and with the Lebanese Foreign Minister Dr. Salem recently. We will continue to press all parties concerned to be flexible about the arrangements for the withdrawal of foreign forces. This is an essential step in the process of re-establishing a peaceful and independent Lebanon.