Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Lord Soames of Fletching (Conservative). It was answered on Monday, 27 February 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Iran

Question: In assessing Iran's nuclear capabilities and seeking, as the free world is, a peaceful solution to the serious problem, does the Secretary of State agree that China, Russia and India are probably best placed to take the lead in seeking a peaceful resolution? Will he discuss with our American friends how we may best engage the efforts of those three countries?

Answer: The problem is one for the whole international community—that is increasingly recognised. Doubtless particular countries are well placed to encourage, persuade and allow the Iranians to reach such a diplomatic solution. One is obviously Russia. It is therefore regrettable that, at this stage, the Iranians appear to have rejected the overtures that the Russians have made and the avenues that they have opened. The suspicion grows that their position on the Russian efforts merely constitutes delaying tactics. I hope that that is not the case. I am convinced that there is an increasing resolve in the world, including the countries that the hon. Gentleman mentioned, to ensure that there is no question of Iran developing the capacity for nuclear weaponry.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 443 c8
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Nuclear weapons Nuclear power Iran International Atomic Energy Agency Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk