HC Deb 27 March 1986 vol 94 cc549-50W
15. Mr. Gow

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how he proposes to make the Anglo-Irish agreement more acceptable to the people of Northern Ireland.

Mr. Tom King

I recognise that many in the Unionist community in Northern Ireland are unhappy about aspects of the agreement. I believe that their reaction is based on fundamental misunderstandings about the terms and operation of the agreement, which I will continue to make every effort to remedy. I hope that Unionist leaders will take up our offer of further dialogue, which was renewed in my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister's letter of 21 March.

18. Mr. Peter Bruinvels

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will arrange an early meeting with Unionist right hon. and hon. Members representing constituencies in Northern Ireland to discuss the operation of the Anglo-Irish agreement; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Tom King

I am ready to talk to the elected representatives from the Unionist community about the Anglo-Irish agreement at any time. I hope that we can meet soon to pursue the matters most recently set out in the letter my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister sent to the right hon. Member for Lagan Valley (Mr. Molyneaux) and the hon. Member for Antrim, North (Rev. Ian Paisley).