HC Deb 25 February 1988 vol 128 c262W
47. Sir John Biggs-Davison

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will make a statement on his discussions with Irish Ministers within and without the Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Council.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

The Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Council itself last met in November 1985. Since then I have had regular opportunities to meet Irish Ministers at meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council and other meetings of the European Communities, when I have been able to discuss matters of mutual interest.

In addition my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is the co-chairman, with the Irish Foreign Minister, of the Intergovernmental Conference established by the Anglo-Irish Agreement, within the framework of the AIIC.