§ Lord Kennetasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, given that the offer of new offensive weaponry to central and east European governments could promote a new arms race by encouraging the Russian government to respond in kind, this is an occasion where the "pre-emptive diplomacy" of the OSCE can be brought into play.
§ Baroness Chalker of WallaseyThe Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) provides an effective contribution to European security by preventing conflict. Its institutions—for example, the High Commissioner on National Minorities—provide early warning of potential conflict and contribute to remedying its causes. The OSCE supports the development of democracy, the peaceful settlement of disputes, respect for human rights, including protection of minority rights, and emerging market economies. Participating states also develop arms control and confidence and security building measures, including Conventional Forces in Europe (CFE) and Open Skies Treaties. Countries acquiring new conventional arms must accommodate these within the overall limits agreed by the CFE Treaty.