§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with his Russian counterpart concerning the renegotiation of the conventional forces in Europe treaty; what consideration he has given to the renegotiation of the conventional forces in Europe treaty; and if he will make a statement. [22297]
§ Mr. SoamesWe maintain a dialogue with the Russians at all levels about issues which might affect their compliance with the conventional forces in Europe treaty.
Renegotiation of the treaty is not a subject which has been discussed. The treaty is widely recognised as the cornerstone of European security and it is in everyone's interest to see it fully implemented. To that end, we continue to urge all states parties, including Russia, to meet their obligations under the treaty, as only by doing so will the basis be created for a constructive review of the treaty's operation at the May 1996 treaty review conference.