HC Deb 05 March 1984 vol 55 cc413-4W
Mr. Soames

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the effect on British interests in the middle east of United States policy towards Israel.

Mr. Luce

A major factor affecting British interests in the middle east is the unresolved Arab-Israel conflict. The United States has close relations with a number of the states involved, including Israel, and clearly has a leading role to play in the resolution of that conflict.

Mr. Soames

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the effect on British interests of United States policy in the middle east.

Mr. Luce

We have important commercial and political interests in the middle east and these are seriously affected by the unresolved regional disputes and continuing tension. We therefore support all constructive moves towards the restoration of peace and stability. United States policy in the middle east has the same objectives.

Mr. Soames

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what was the substance of his discussion relating to the middle east when he last met Mr. Gromyko.

Mr. Luce

My right hon. and learned Friend's last substantive discussion of the middle east with Mr. Gromyko took place in Stockholm on 19 January. The main subject was Lebanon and the possibility of replacing the multinational force in Beirut by a United Nations force. Details of the discussion must remain confidential.