§ Mr. Amessasked the Prime Minister if the Government are considering the formation of a formal multinational counter-terrorist unit both at an intelligence and commando level.
§ The Prime MinisterWe are not considering the formation of such a unit. We believe the most effective and practical way in which to counter international terrorism is through closer co-operation between Governments and their police forces and security authorities. Considerable progress has been made recently to this end both with our European Community partners and with other like-minded countries.
§ Mr. Murphyasked the Prime Minister if she will make a response on behalf of Her Majesty's Government to the initiative by the president of the Western European Union Assembly for a European Group to co-ordinate the fight against terrorism.
§ The Prime MinisterI welcome the interest shown by the president of the Western European Union Assembly in combating the scourge of terrorism. As my hon. Friend will know, the actions of European Governments against terrorism are being co-ordinated amongst the Twelve. This forum includes all WEU member states and ensures the widest possible co-ordination of the European response to the terrorist outrage.