§ Dr. MurrisonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what measures he is taking to facilitate the enlargement of NATO at the Alliance's 2002 Prague summit. [4429]
§ Mr. HoonAs the Prime Minister has made clear, we support the further enlargement of NATO when the political and military conditions agreed at the 1997 Madrid and 1999 Washington Summits are met. The Ministry of Defence, together with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, continues to consult closely with Allies on the implications of possible further enlargement for Euro-Atlantic security. We are assisting aspirants with their preparations through the Membership Action Plan, launched at the 1999 Washington Summit. We will continue to work with the Secretary General and Allies to ensure that the Alliance has the capabilities, force and command structures, planning and decision-making processes it needs to maintain its efficiency and effectiveness.