HL Deb 14 December 1999 vol 608 cc23-4WA
The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they accept the recently expressed comment in the Daily Telegraph on 1 December that a move towards a common foreign and security policy within the European Union "distracts attention from emerging security threats, such as the spread of missiles and weapons of mass destruction" and "sows the seeds of discord within the Atlantic relationship". [HL236]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

Britain has worked to develop the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy since its establishment in 1992. Part of this effort has been to work with our EU partners in mobilising Europe's substantial political and economic weight to counter emerging threats. The European Defence Initiative will further strengthen CFSP by delivering credible military capabilities to underpin our policies. The US have a positive view of CFSP, understanding that a stronger Europe means a stronger Alliance.