Written question asked by David Cairns (Labour) on Friday, 25 February 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 March 2011. It was answered by Alistair Burt (Conservative) on Friday, 4 March 2011 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Iran: Nuclear Power

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the implications for UK policy on Iran of the recent statement by the Iranian President that the country's right to nuclear capabilities is non-negotiable.

Answer: As my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has said, we do not challenge Iran's right to a peaceful nuclear programme. However with this right comes responsibilities. Successive reports by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) highlight the areas where Iran continues to refuse to co-operate with the UN, the IAEA or comply with its safeguards obligations. Alongside our international partners, we remain committed to seeking a diplomatic solution to this issue. However, until Iran chooses to engage seriously and take steps to resolve the concerns of the international community, the pressure on it will only increase.

Secondary information