HC Deb 20 January 1983 vol 35 cc202-3W
Mr. Ernie Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if a state of war still exists between the United Kingdom and North Korea.

Mr. Rifkind

Although the United Kingdom was among 16 nations which responded to a Security Council Resolution of 1950 seeking assistance to repel an attack on the Republic of Korea by North Korean forces, a state of war has never existed in connection with hostilities in the Korean peninsula.

Mr. Ernie Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what conditions it is felt necessary that the North Korean Government should fulfil before recognition is granted by the British Government.

Mr. Rifkind

Recognition of North Korea as a state is inappropriate while the exceptional circumstances in the Korean peninsula persist. We should welcome any moves by the North Korean authorities to promote a settlement acceptable to all parties concerned, but meanwhile it would be unwise to speculate on possible future developments in the situation there.

Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government towards the peaceful reunification of North and South Korea; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hurd

Her Majesty's Government have consistently supported efforts to achieve the peaceful reunification of Korea. The establishment of the necessary confidence and understanding requires direct contact between the two sides. We welcomed the initiatives to this end set out in statements by President Chun Doo Hwan in 1981 and 1982.

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