HC Deb 12 May 2003 vol 405 c74W
Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with members of the United States Administration regarding(a) Zimbabwe, (b) Iran, (c) North Korea and (d) Syria. [110588]

Mr. Rammell

Our policy toward both Iran and Syria has most recently been discussed with the US Administration in the context of the current crisis in Iraq. With regard to both, the UK remains committed to a policy of constructive and, where necessary, critical engagement, which allows us to support reform while maintaining a robust dialogue on issues of concern.

We are in regular and close consultation with the US Administration on the issue of North Koreas nuclear programmes. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister discussed this with President Bush most recently on 26 March, and I visited Washington for talks with senior Administration colleagues at the beginning of April. We will continue to work with the US and other key partners to find a peaceful and lasting resolution to this issue.

My noble Friend Baroness Amos discussed Zimbabwe with Walter Kansteiner, US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, when they met on 30 April.

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with the US Administration regarding the future of the(a) European Union and (b) United Nations. [110711]

Mr. Rammell

My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary is in frequent contact with his US counterpart, Colin Powell, on a range of subjects. These sometimes include issues connected with both the European Union and the United Nations.

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with the US Administration regarding the(a) German and (b) French Administration. [110713]

Mr. Rammell

My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary is in regular contact with his US counterpart, Colin Powell. Discussions usually cover a wide range of issues.