§ Mr. Hooleyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions have been held between the United Kingdom, the United States of America and West Germany about the United Nations law of the sea conference; and what was the substance of the discussions.
§ Mr. HurdThe United Kingdom is in constant touch with the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany as well as with many other States participating in the United Nations law of the sea conference in connection with many aspects of the conference. The content of these consultations is confidential. We continue to try to steer the conference towards agreement.
§ Mr. Hooleyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government within the current session of the United Nations law of the sea conference on the composition and powers of the proposed International Sea Bed Authority; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HurdThe provisions of the draft convention on the composition and powers of the authority are regarded as an adequate basis for negotiation, but we would like to improve them during the current session. I do not want to hamper our negotiating position by giving further detailed comments at this stage.