§ 41. Mr. Gerald HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent factors and events have influenced Anglo-Irish relations.
§ Sir Geoffrey HoweMany factors, including ties of geography and history, and our membership of the European Communities influence the United Kingdom's relations with the Republic of Ireland. There is a broad range of important mutual interests. We are able to discuss events affecting Anglo-Irish relations including the need for the closest possible co-operation against terrorism as they arise in the framework of the Anglo-Irish Agreement and through other channels.
§ 24. Sir Fergus MontgomeryTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what further measures he is taking to improve Anglo-Irish relations.
§ Sir Geoffrey HoweWe continue to take every opportunity to develop closer relations with the Republic of Ireland, in constructive pursuit of our many shared interests. In particular, we are fully committed to the Anglo-Irish Agreement. It provides a firm basis on which to continue to develop detailed co-operation in a variety of areas of high priority concern to both countries, including further resolute action against terrorism.