§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Prime Minister what backing Her Majesty's Government are giving to the Government of Australia, New Zealand and others in the Asia/Pacific region in their protests against the French Government's intention to resume nuclear testing in the Mururoa atoll; and if he will make a statement. [30385]
§ The Prime Minister[holding answer 22 June 1995]: In our view the international community's main priority is the early conclusion of a comprehensive test ban treaty. While we recognise the concern of some countries, particularly those in the south Pacific, over the French decision to suspend their moratorium on nuclear testing, we do not believe that a strictly limited programme of tests should affect the prospects for this.
§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Prime Minister on what date his French counterpart informed him that the French Government would recommence the testing of nuclear weapons. [30047]
§ The Prime Minister[holding answer 22 June 1995]: We have very close contacts with the French Government on a wide range of defence questions, including defence procurement, issues of mutual interest and nuclear matters, including testing. I discussed both subjects when I saw President Chirac on 10 June. The details of these discussions remain confidential.