§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with his Indian counterparts on India's defence policies. [42564]
§ Mr. FatchettMy right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has had no recent discussions with Mr. Vajpayee on India's defence policies. I summoned the Acting Indian High Commissioner on 13 May to register our dismay and concern at the nuclear tests in India. My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary made clear in his statement to the House on 14 May 1998,Official Report, column 312, that the UK condemns the tests. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister spoke to Mr. Vajpayee in similar terms during a telephone conversation on 15 May.