§ Mr. Terlezkiasked the Prime Minister if, in view of her meeting with Mr. Chernenko in Moscow, she will now seek with President Reagan as soon as possible to invite Mr. Chernenko to London or Washington and start negotiating for peace and prosperity; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterIt is for President Reagan to express a view on an invitation to Mr. Chernenko to visit Washington. As far as London is concerned, while we agree on the desirability of lasting peace and prosperity, these are goals which may not be significantly advanced by an immediate invitation to Mr. Chernenko. Careful consideration needs to be given to the timing and preparation of summit meetings if they are to be of use. We will continue to seek a better relationship between East and West based on a broader understanding and on the recognition that East and West have a common interest in peace and security at a lower level of weapons. We recognise that this will be a long-term task, and will pursue it without any compromise on principles.