HC Deb 12 July 1989 vol 156 cc540-1W
19. Mr. Franks

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will report on the outcome of the visit of the Australian Prime Minister to Britain in June.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

Mr Hawke's visit last month was a great success. It was an indication of the desire of both Governments to give a new impetus to our bilateral relations. The visit set the seal on the dynamic relationship with Australia which has developed in the past year or two.

56. Mr. Day

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what measures are being undertaken to strengthen United Kingdom-Australian relations.

Mr. Eggar

Following the recent successful visit to Britain by the Prime Minister of Australia, we will be seeking to ensure that a regular momentum of ministerial and official exchanges is maintained. Visits to Australia in the past twelve months by my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Defence, for Trade and Industry, and for Education and Science have meant a thorough review of our relationship with Australia in these and other fields. We want to see the already strong co-operation in these areas maintained and, wherever possible, expanded.

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