Written question asked by Cheryl Gillan (Conservative) on Thursday, 18 January 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 23 January 2001. It was answered by Lord Hain (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 January 2001 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with Indian Ministers regarding the test firing of intermediate range ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mrs. Gillan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with Indian Ministers regarding the test firing of intermediate range ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads; and if he will make a statement. [146874] Mr. Hain: We have not had the opportunity yet to have discussions with the Indian Government regarding the missile test on 17 January. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office issued the following statement on the day of the test "The UK regrets India's decision to test the Agni II Medium Range Ballistic Missile on 17 January. The UK believes that restraint in developing nuclear weapons and possible delivery systems is in the long-term interests of India and the region. The UK continues to urge India to take the steps set out in UNSCR 1172. The test sends the wrong signal within the region and beyond".

Secondary information