§ Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement setting out the policy of Her Majesty's Government towards the joint Franco-Mexican declaration on the political situation in El Salvador.
§ Mr. LuceThe Franco-Mexican declaration was a bilateral initiative by the countries concerned. We were not consulted. There is much in the declaration with which we agree: we support the holding of free democratic elections under appropriate conditions, and would welcome the participation of those parties who believe in the democratic process, and who forswear violence.
205WHowever, extremist elements in the FDR—FMLN indulge in violence. and are responsible for much suffering, including the kidnap for ransom of British subjects. We nevertheless recognise that within the FDR are politicians who could have a role to play in El Salvador's political development.