§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what was 118W the cost to public funds of the Darlington Conference; and how this compares with the estimated cost of holding the same conference at Stormont or elsewhere in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. WhitelawApproximately £16,800. No estimates were made of the cost of holding the conference in Northern Ireland as there was no intention of holding it there.
§ Mr Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will make a statement on his political discussions with Northern Ireland leaders.
§ Mr. WhitelawThe Darlington conference provided me with a valuable opportunity to discuss with the leaders of three of the political parties in Northern Ireland their views and proposals for the future. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and I also met leaders of the Social Democratic and Labour Party shortly before the conference and I am also in touch with other political leaders. I shall continue these consultations which are an essential part of the Government's declared objective of a settlement which will lead to peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland.