HC Deb 25 June 1982 vol 26 cc195-6W
Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether any discussions have taken place between his officials and Ministers and representatives of the Government of the United States of America concerning the White Paper "Northern Ireland: A Framework for Devolution"; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Prior

There have been no such discussions. But Her Majesty's ambassador and his staff have taken steps to ensure that the United States Government and others in the United States of America understand the policy set out in the White Paper.

Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Basildon of 17 June, Official Report, c. 331, how many meetings were required for his officials to explain the substance of the White Paper on "Northern Ireland: A Framework for Devolution"; on which dates these meetings took place; what levels of officials and how many were involved in each meeting; and if he will make a statement;

(2) pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Basildon of 17 June, Official Report, c. 331, what was the response from the officials of the Government of the Republic of Ireland to the explanation by his officials of the substance of the White Paper; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Prior

The substance of the White Paper would be explained when it arose in conversation when my officials, and those of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Her Majesty's embassy in Dublin, meet officials of the Republic, which they do frequently on a wide range of matters of common concern. It would not be practicable to give particulars of all such occasions. The attitude of the Government of the Republic towards the White Paper has been made known in their public statements.

Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether any discussions have taken place between his officials and Ministers and officials and Ministers representing foreign Governments other than the Government of the Republic of Ireland concerning the explanation of the substance of the White Paper "Northern Ireland: A Framework for Devolution"; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Prior

There have been no such discussions. But our diplomatic posts have taken steps, in appropriate countries, to ensure that the policy set out in the White Paper is understood.