East-West Relations

HC Deb 22 February 1984 vol 54 cc560-1W

42. Mr. Parris

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on East-West relations.

Mr. Rifkind

We will continue to seek a better relationship between East and West, based on a broader understanding and 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. It was on this basis that my right hon. and learned Friend met Mr. Gromyko in Stockholm on 19 January and my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister recently visited Budapest and Moscow.