§ Sir Anthony DurantTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his policy regarding the proposals contained in recommendation 1303 (1996) of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe relating to a second summit of Heads of State and Government of the Council of Europe; and if he will make a statement. [2205]
§ Mr. David DavisWe accept that a second summit would serve a useful purpose. We expect a decision on whether or not to hold such a summit in the second half of 1997 in Strasbourg to be made at the 99th session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe on 7 November. We take full note of the items listed in recommendation 1303 (1996) as potential elements for a draft declaration following a second summit, but we believe that any draft text should evolve after further consideration by member states, in consultation with the Parliamentary Assembly.