§ Mr. Robert McCartneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the progress of the talks at Castle buildings, Stormont. [2637]
§ Mr. AncramThe participants have all made clear their total and absolute commitment to the principles of democracy and non-violence set out in paragraph 20 of the report of the international body; they have agreed rules of procedure, established a business committee and settled the agenda for the remainder of the opening plenary. They are currently addressing proposals regarding the decommissioning of illegal weapons.
The talks process provides the best opportunity for a generation of reaching a comprehensive and widely acceptable political settlement which could underpin lasting peace in Northern Ireland.