§ Sir Bernard Braineasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether, having regard to the United Nations study on the question of Antarctica and the United Nations resolution adopted on the subject in December 1984, he envisages any enlargement of the Antarctic treaty system; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RentonWe welcomed the United Nations Secretary-General's study on Antarctica and believe it demonstrates the value and benefits of the Antarctic treaty system. The treaty is open to accession by any member of the United Nations. We believe this is the right basis for any enlargement of the treaty system.
§ Sir Bernard Braineasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has been made in the recent Antarctic minerals regime negotiations; what is the likely date of conclusion of current talks; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RentonThe recent informal consultations in Rio de Janeiro built upon discussions at the earlier meetings at Wellington, Bonn, Washington and Tokyo. Further progress was made although no final conclusions were reached. There will be a further meeting later this year. It is not possible to predict when the current negotiations will come to an end.