HC Deb 07 February 1985 vol 72 c647W
14. Mr. Moynihan

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on his most recent round of discussions with the Northern Ireland party leaders.

Mr. Hurd

The party leaders have all said publicly that they are willing to discuss whether there is any common ground from which new arrangements for administering Northern Ireland could be developed. I am encouraging them to start practical discussions. The best way forward is for them to proceed quietly and in confidence.